Cat hisses at new kitten and hides. How to help her adjust?

Question

After i introduced nala (7 months) to simba (1 month male) she was hissing and growling so i seperated them only to introduce them slowly but now she avoids coming downstaires all together and stays in my bedroom (she only comes down to eat or use the litter box). Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 9 lbs

Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH · Accepted Answer

I'm sorry to hear that Nala is having a hard time with the introduction of a new kitten. It certainly sounds like she is experiencing some anxiety as a result of having a new kitten added to her household. Since it sounds like you have done a good job of introducing Simba gradually and Nala is still not tolerating him, you might need to find some ways to decrease her stress. One option for decreasing stress is to add a Feliway Diffuser ( https://www.feliway.com ) to your house. This is a calming pheromone that will work for a month and may be beneficial for both cats. I have also had luck with Rescue Remedy ( http://www.bachflower.com/rescue-remedy-pet/ ) which can be added to the water. You could also consider calming music specifically for cats ( http://throughadogsear.com/tace/through-a-cats-ear-1-music-for-calming/ ). If Nala continues to hide in your bedroom, it may be time to take her to your veterinarian for a physical exam and discussion about possible anti-anxiety medication short-term. Hopefully if you can get her more comfortable around Simba, they can have a good relationship, but it commonly takes some time. Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using PetCoach.

Cat hisses at new kitten and hides. How to help her adjust?

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