What's the next step to introduce a stray cat to my other cats?

Question

Pumpkin is a stray cat that we have taken care of outdoors for almost a year, proving shelter, blankets, food & water but we would like to bring him inside to live with our other 2 10 year old cats. I would guess Pumpkin is about 6 years old. We currently allow him in by himself on the covered patio. My other two cats know his smell and have seen each other through the door, what would be the next best step to introducing them face to face. Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 12 lbs

Christie Long, DVM · Accepted Answer

Many thanks for adopting a stray! If you haven't yet, before you introduce Pumpkin to the rest of your household, I strongly recommend you take him in to see your vet for a check up as well as vaccinations. In addition, he should be checked for the feline viral diseases including feline leukemia and feline AIDS, since he could transmit these to your cats. If all checks out well, start by bringing him into the house (making sure the other cats can't see him) and getting him comfortable in his own room with food, water, toys, a litter box, etc. Spend plenty of time with him there every day, making sure that you also give plenty of attention to your other cats. After a couple of weeks, when everyone had gotten used to everyone's scent, you can try a controlled introduction, perhaps with Pumpkin in a carrier. If all goes well there, allow them to share space but make sure they are monitored and make sure there is a way for everyone to get their own space - a cat tree is perfect for this - until they are comfortable together.

What's the next step to introduce a stray cat to my other cats?

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