How to Introduce Two New Cats to Each Other

Start with realistic expectations

Cats don't necessarily crave the company of other cats. In fact, feline behaviourist Laura Borromeo, who has studied thousands of cats over 25 years in different parts of the world, says they prefer their own company and are at their unhappiest if they live with too many of their species. However, Indian stray cats are known to be more social and can accept sharing space with one more pair of curious whiskers.

Be aware that tom cats are notoriously intolerant of kittens, and known to kill them — not out of competition or malice, but in a case of misplaced intentions. Their parenting job is done with impregnation, and we don't even know if they recognise the young of their own species, let alone are invested in seeing them thrive.

Step one: swap scents

Keep the cats apart in different rooms. Place a piece of cloth, such as a small towel, where each sits, and at the end of the day leave it in the other cat's area. Do this for about five days so that each cat knows there's another in the vicinity.

Step two: let them wander

When the cats are relaxed, let one wander into the other's room, to sniff about. Just leave the door open when they are grooming or sunbathing. Do not force them into each other's zone. Do this several times a day for about seven to 10 days.

Step three: increase exposure slowly

Slowly start increasing the period of exposure. If you sense high hostility — hissing, fur standing on edge, swatting aggressively — they are not ready to mingle yet, and it would be best to go back a few steps.

If the cats show curiosity, repeat this exposure a few times a day until the cats start ignoring each other.

Step four: the boop

Eventually, you may see them ignore each other and go to sleep. Or share a perch together, or be in close vicinity. If they come to each other and boop noses — congratulations, you have two cats now!