Supplies
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Carrier
Food Food and water bowls Litter box, litter, scooper Treats Bed Nail clipper Toys Cat scratchers Cat tree |
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Adopting from Hands to Paws?
Our Partners have everything you need! Hollywood Feed PetSmart |
Introducing Cats
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1. Separate the cats.
Place the new cat in a spare bedroom or bathroom for a few days. |
2. Exchange scents.
The cats can smell each other through the door. You can also exchange blankets they've each slept on. |
3. Swap the cats.
Let each cat explore the other cat's area and smells separately. |
4. Play through door.
Play with string toys on each side of the door. See if you can get the cats to interact under the door. |
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5. Visually introduce.
Crack open the door and let the cats sniff each other. Some hissing or swatting may occur, and that's ok! |
6. Interact through gate.
Put a baby gate where the door was and let the cats interact. Monitor for jumping. Watch their body language. |
7. Full meeting.
If the last step went well the cats can now meet fully. Keep the first few meetings short and sweet. |
8. Play without you.
Let the cats spend time together without you. At this point, you should be around 7-10 days post adoption. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why aren't my cats getting along?
Adopting a new cat is exciting, and sometimes you want your cats to meet each other as soon as you get home. We understand! But this isn't the best method. Please review the Introducing Cats section above for tips and tricks.
My cat has diarrhea
Switching food sources and/or the stress of a new environment (especially if they are skittish) can cause cats to have upset stomachs. Monitor the cat for a few days and see if the stomach issues go away. You can also ask Hands to Paws what food your new cat was on in their foster home.
my new cat seems scared
Moving can be scary! Give your cat time to learn it's new environment and people. Try to provide a calm location for the first few days such as a spare bedroom or bathroom.