Getting a second cat: How to introduce them without stressing my first?

Question

I am getting a second cat and when I read about it online it says that for them to get along they should eat close to each other (separated by a door). But won't my current cat get stressed about their food bowl being moved? Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 2 years and 5 months old | 8.2 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. I have a different method for getting cats to get along that shouldn't cause Luna any stress. I would slowly introduce them to each other. Take the kitten, and put her in her own room with her 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 her room, and see how she 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 her room when you go out until they are comfortable with each other. I hope this helps!

Getting a second cat: How to introduce them without stressing my first?

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