How to reintroduce cats after a failed first meeting safely?

Question

Kajin (8 weeks) is my new kitty. Benji (8 months) is my resident cat. I introduced them wayyy too fast. Benji is chasing after Kajin when I set him down and Kajin starts hissing. I think I bit off more than I can chew because I introduced them too fast. Anything I can do to help their relationship flourish in a positive way and to reverse the damage I’ve already done? Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 1 day old | 2 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Yes you can do something! I would slowly introduce them to each other. Take the kitten, and put him in his own room with his own food, water, and litter box. Keep the door closed, and for a few days, feed them both treats on other side of door so they associate each other's smell with a good experience. Then let the other cat in the kitten's room while the kitten is in a cat carrier. They can smell each other, but not be in contact. If either becomes upset or show signs of aggression, remove the second cat from the room, and try again later. Praise them when they interact appropriately. When they are interacting well with each other through the carrier, you can let the kitten out of his room, and see how he interacts with the other cat. Praise them when they interact appropriately, and separate them with any sign of aggression or upset. I would get a cat tree with lots of shelves to give the cats vertical space to get away from each other. I would keep the kitten in his room when you go out until they are comfortable with each other. I hope this helps!

How to reintroduce cats after a failed first meeting safely?

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