---
title: "Harmonizing a Multi-Cat Household"
description: "Promote peace in a multi-cat household by optimizing resource distribution, litter box placement, and vertical territory to reduce conflict."
date: "2020-03-30T13:09:53Z"
author: "Just Cats Clinic"
image: "/images/06d73785.1000x600.jpg"
canonical: "/harmonizing-a-multi-cat-household/"
---

# Harmonizing a Multi-Cat Household


Introducing a new cat into your home if you already have another kitty can be challenging. But with patience and hard
work, you can have a multi-cat household that's not only rewarding for you, but for your new kitty crew as well.

The most important tip is to take things slowly. When bringing a new cat into your home, patience is critical. It may
take two cats eight to twelve months to grow accustomed to each other, so introduce them gradually and do not rush.
Before you pick up your new cat, prepare a place in your home like a larger bathroom or separate bedroom with bedding,
food, water, litter box, and toys. Also make sure to spray Feliway or place Feliway diffusers around your home to help
with the transition. Place your new cat in the separate room. This allows your new cat to adjust to the new surroundings
and your current kitties to adjust to the smells and sounds of the new family member.

![Cat resting in a separate sanctuary room prepared with essentials](/images/80660b0d.331x352.jpg)

Make sure to give meals, treats, and playtime near the door that separates them. This will help them get used to each
other at mealtimes and to associate good things with each other.

The next step is to switch your cats so they have a chance to smell each other and their surroundings/territory. Place
your current felines in the smaller room and your new cat will get to explore the house for a few hours. We recommend
doing this process for 1–2 weeks minimum to reduce stress and any potential conflicts that can arise.

![Cat curiously exploring territory outside its safe room](/images/c6b4c57f.370x278.jpg)

Make sure the first impression is a good one. If their initial contact results in aggression, their future relationship
may always be strained. Don't rush the process—it can be tempting to let them interact right away, but taking the time
to do a slow introduction can mean happier cats in the long term! If the first meeting does result in aggression, start
the introduction process over from the beginning.

If there are no signs of aggression such as hissing or growling when either feline approaches the door, gradually bring
the cats into contact with one another. One way to minimize the chances of a fight is to place a temporary screen where
the door is so that they can see but not touch each other. Along with another member of your family, pick up the cats
and gently set them down near the screen. Call out their names and give them treats as a reward for good behavior. Over
the next couple of days, feed, play with, and give treats to the felines near the separating screen, gradually getting
closer and closer to the divider.

![Two cats meeting safely while separated by a screen door](/images/b697ae95.373x322.jpg)

Let the cats spend time together without the screen door between them. Obviously, you will need to supervise these
initial meetings very carefully. As they get more familiar with each other, you can increase the amount of time they
spend in each other's company. At these initial meetings, make sure to prepare for the worst just in case. Have a spray
bottle with water handy to break up any fights that may start. Hopefully you won't need it, but it's the best way to
break up a fight without getting hurt! NEVER attempt to reach your hand in or pick up your cats when they are fighting.

Remember to keep your goals realistic. Even if you do everything right, two cats sharing a home may never become close
friends. But generally speaking, they will at the least learn over time to stay out of each other's way. And sometimes
they do become the best of friends! If you still have trouble introducing your cats, contact us about any additional
tips for introduction or for recommendations to a behaviorist.