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How to introduce a new cat: step 5.?

INTRODUCING THE DOGS It’s even more important to go slowly when introducing dogs. As Dr. Suzanne Hetts says, “Dogs can kill a cat very easily, even if they’re only playing.” Of course this is even more true when introducing a kitten. Some cats have never been around dogs or have already had a bad experience with them–that fear response is what they remember.

How to introduce a new cat: step 4.?

INTRODUCING THE CATS I think the biggest mistake in introducing a new cat is simply going too fast. If the cat gets afraid, you can undo so much positive reinforcement so quickly. As Karen Pryor says, the fear response goes quickly and deeply into the most basic part of the brain. So it’s very important to try to prevent encounters that make any animal fearful.

How to introduce a new cat: step 3.?

INTRODUCING THE REST OF THE SPACE Now it’s time to learn about the rest of the house and its home pets. Again, one thing at a time. Once the new cat is comfortable in its safe room, try moving its food closer to the door. At the same time, put a food dish on the other side of the door for the home pets. Pay attention to signs of fear in the new cat, ready to back the food up if it refuses to eat.

How to introduce a new cat: step 2.?

INTRODUCING THE NEW PEOPLE While it’s acclimating to the space, the new cat needs to learn to trust you. Once that happens, you can become the bridge to everything else, the sure thing it can rely on even when everything else changes. Excepting feral cats, for whom there are specialized techniques for socializing (without or with a clicker), you need to go extremely slowly with an especially fearful cat.

How to introduce a new cat: step 1.?

THE NEW SPACE With most cats, it’s extremely important to start the cat off in a safe room where no one else goes, so it can start to get familiar with its new space. Of course, it will need its food and water, plus its own catbox. If the new cat’s food and catbox are from its previous life, you’re a step ahead. Also helpful is something comforting from its previous space, like a blanket.