By Susan Easterly
Tiny stray Ziba was just a whisker past 3 months old when she decided to come live with our family. It didn't matter a whit that we lived with a 90-pound rescued racing Greyhound. The soft gray kitten was sure that things would work out just fine.
On the other hand, I didn't feel quite so confident. There was a reason we were cat-less back then, and the reason had a lot to do with Edo the Greyhound.
Because Ziba was determined to stay with us, and my children were equally determined to keep her, I decided to give this potential dog and cat relationship my best shot. I kept them separated at first and proceeded slowly. I wasn't absolutely convinced that Ziba was safe around Edo until one memorable warm spring afternoon a few weeks later when I caught the two of them napping by each other. They always greeted each other affectionately after that—Edo's long nose nuzzling the entire top of Ziba's head and Ziba enthusiastically rubbing her 3-pound body against his face and legs. They were close buddies for the rest of Edo's life.
Preparing for change
Whether your new addition shows up at your front door or is planned well in advance, a new cat in your pet family involves a few adjustments on everyone's part. It doesn't need to be a hit-and-miss proposition. There's a lot you can do to make the transition easier.
Important first steps
Before you bring your new cat through the front door, though, make a detour to your veterinary clinic. A health exam is essential to protect pets at home and to ensure the health of your new feline friend. Your cat should be checked for parasites (such as fleas, worms, or ear mites), tested for feline leukemia, and vaccinated. Nails should be trimmed, too, just in case your new cat swats your exuberant puppy. Spay or neuter your cat as soon as possible. Spaying and neutering not only has lots of health benefits but also lessens territorial feelings—an obvious plus during the introductory phase.
Words to the wise
Pet experts offer abundant suggestions for smoothing the road, but there are two things to remember above all: Keep your new cat safe, and use some common sense along the way. For example, hissing and growling between cats is normal behavior when a new cat has invaded a resident cat's territory, but screaming is not. Keep your new cat safely separated from other pets, and be a good chaperone until your pets have proven they can be together.
Meeting each other
Remember the old adage about picking your friends but not your relatives? Help your new cat become a welcome friend by seeing the situation from your pet's point of view. Feline experts recommend having someone other than a family member bring the new cat inside for the first time, so your cat won't resent you for the intrusion on her home turf. For the first few days, or until the hissing and hair-raising subsides, keep your newcomer in a separate room with her food, water, litter box and bedding. This lets her adjust to her new surroundings while your cat adjusts to her. Open the door when you feel both cats are ready, but stay close by.
It's OK to let your dog see you bring your new cat home in a carrier. Your dog is a pack animal who will generally follow your lead, especially if he is well trained and socialized. Some dogs view cats as prey, however, so if your dog has never been around cats, it's a good idea to pre-test him. To accomplish this, one feline expert suggests taking your dog to a veterinary hospital with a resident cat who is used to dogs. Arrange a meeting (with your dog on a leash) to observe his reaction to cats.
Patience is the key
Give your resident pets lots of attention while they adjust to the new fellow, and remember to give them the space they need until they are ready to be closer. Don't leave them together when you are gone until you are positive that everyone will be safe. And always give your cat a safety outlet, such as a place to jump up out of danger or away from a pesky puppy. Above all, be patient and calm. And remember: Blending a new cat into your family takes time.
Tip: Ease the transition
Cats who have pet housemates can live happier, healthier lives, thanks to the companionship, exercise and interaction. Here's how you can make the introductions go more smoothly.
Look for the right one.
If possible, choose a cat that balances the personality of your other pet.
Make scents.
Let your pets sniff the scent of your new cat on paper strips or cloth to get them used to the idea of a newcomer. Do the same for your new cat.
Feed them.
Full tummies can help relax your pets before they meet.
