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Is my new kitten's smell upsetting my cats? How to make them friendly?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed

I had new kitten for 2 weeks (age about 5 weeks old). My two other cats were offensive at first, then became calm down after 2 weeks. They even begin to butt sniff the kitten. But after sniffing, they just step back and walk or run away shockingly. Is it the smell of the kitten that upsets them? How to make them more friendly with each other?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 22nd, 2017

Your cats are still getting used to the smell of the new kitten, and they are still unsure of her, so they run away. It's fine that they do this, as it's normal behavior and much better than aggression. I would reinforce the friendly behavior. When you see them approach the kitten and act friendly towards her, praise them and give them treats. This will make them associate contact with the kitten as a positive experience, and it will encourage them to do it more.

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