https://www.chewy.com/education/cat/new-cat/can-socialize-cat-tips-introducing-cats
Successfully introducing a new cat to your household requires time, patience, and careful observation of each cat’s behavior.
Begin by separating the cats completely, providing each with their own food, water, litter box, and toys in separate rooms.
Over the course of 7 days or weeks, gradually expose them to each other’s scent, swap their spaces, and encourage safe interaction through a closed door or pet gate.
Observing calm behavior - such as soft eye contact or gentle play - is key before moving on to face to face introductions.
Always monitor for signs of stress or aggression, such as hissing, flattened ears, or hiding, and be prepared to take a step back in the process if needed.
Once the cats can calmly interact through a gate, short supervised face to face sessions can begin, eventually progressing to longer periods together.
Even after peaceful meetings, it’s important to continue supervising until both cats consistently show relaxed, friendly behavior.
Only once they have demonstrated sustained comfort with one another should they be left alone unsupervised.
To be by your side at every step, Chewy editorial team has created an educational video designed to provide a clear guide, helping to ease and smooth your journey.
