Bringing a new cat into your home can be exciting, but it can also lead to tension if your feline companions don’t see eye to eye right away. If you’re wondering how to make cats get along or how can I make my cats get along, patience, planning, and positive reinforcement are key.
Cats are routine-oriented animals that need time to acclimate to any change in their household, including the addition of other pets. Sudden introductions often lead to hissing, swatting, or hiding. With the right approach, however, most cats can learn to tolerate, and even enjoy, each other’s company.
Start With a Slow Introduction
1. Give Each Cat Their Own Space
Before meeting face-to-face, set up a separate room for your new cat with their own food, water, litter box, toys, and a comfortable bed. This allows them to adjust to the sights, sounds, and smells of their new home without feeling threatened.
2. Use a Barrier for First Meetings
When it’s time for a visual introduction, use a baby gate, screen door, or cracked doorway. This allows the cats to see each other without the chance of physical conflict.
Encourage Positive Associations
Reward Calm Behavior
Whenever your cats are near each other and remain calm, reward them with treats, praise, or playtime. Over time, they’ll learn that being together means good things happen.
Play Together, Separately at First
Engage both cats in play sessions at the same time but from a safe distance. Wand toys are a great way to distract them while building positive experiences together.
Manage Tension and Avoid Fights
Even with a slow introduction, some tension is normal. We suggest ignoring escalations in behavior rather than intervening (as this can lead to redirected behaviors). Interactions should be kept short and sweet and always end on a positive note. Reinforcing appropriate behaviors with rewards and positive reinforcement is going to be the most powerful thing to garner strong and appropriate relationships.
How Long Does It Take for Cats to Get Along?
Every cat relationship is different. Some cats warm up to each other within days, while others may take weeks or even months. Be patient, pushing the process too quickly can set you back.
Signs that your cats are making progress include:
- Relaxed body language
- Eating in the same room without tension
- Playing together or grooming each other
When to Seek Extra Help
If your cats are showing constant aggression or aren’t making progress after several weeks, consider consulting your veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist. They can help identify underlying issues, such as health problems or anxiety, that might be contributing to the tension.
Creating a Peaceful Multi-Cat Home
If you’re asking how make cats get along or how can I make my cats get along, remember that patience, consistency, and careful planning are your best tools. By introducing your cats gradually and rewarding positive behavior, you can create a home where both feel secure and respected.
At North Shore Animal League America, we’ve helped countless cats find happy homes together, and we know that with time, most cats can learn to be the best of companions.