Recently aquired a cat to keep our current cat company. The

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Recently aquired a cat to keep our current cat company. The new
cat is the same age (8-9 months), female and equivalent size. We've
kept them separated and switched their accomodations to get them used to
each others smell. They've also had some interaction on eithe side of a baby
gate. The new cat is very friendly. The original cat is not so accomodating.
Today, we let them interact directly for a couple of hours. The old cat stalks
the new cat from behind, they have a little fight (only the original cat hisses or
growls), but nothing too serious. I assume this behavior will subside eventually,
but was curious if we could speed-up the process? Is it correct to spray (water bottle)
the cat when it's stalking the new cat - or should we let nature take it's course?
We have them separated again and only plan to put them together with supervision.

Optional Information:
Age: <1; Female; Breed: DSH cats

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Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $9

Dear friend,
Even though it can be annoying, you are observing perfectly normal cat behavior. Your resident cat will inform the newcomer that SHE is the head cat of the household and expects respect and submission from the newcomer. The new cat will bow to the residents authority and they will establish a "pecking order" so to speak - where the new cat knows and stays in her place.
You have done everything right in the introduction and it is only a very short matter of time now before you will have peace. DO NOT spray your resident cat. That will only antagonise her and she could blame the newcomer for this distressing action. That will actually delay the adjustment.
Within another week or so these two girls should be good friends.
Please let me know if you have any more questions. I will be very happy to help.
Warmest wishes,
Terri

Dedicated to Cats and the people who love them!
Please press ACCEPT if my answer was helpful and leave feedback Thank you! Terri

Reply to Terri Riba's Post: Just a small follow-up question and I won't
keep you longer. Both cats are due to be
boarded in 3 days for a period of 8 days.
Is it best to keep them close when boarded
or separated? many thanks for your fine advice

Dear friend,
Ask as many questions as you like. I really don't mind and I sincerely want to help.
I would start letting them have complete contact right now so they will form a friendship. Then you can board them together as they will comfort each other.
If there was any way to leave them home with a pet service coming in once a day that would be a much better alternative. Cats have enormous stress when they are take out of their homes. They can even become ill as a result.
If that is impossible then boarding them together will be best.
Let me know if you have any more questions.
Best of luck with your furry children!
Warmest wishes,
Terri

Dedicated to Cats and the people who love them!
Please press ACCEPT if my answer was helpful and leave feedback Thank you! Terri

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Recently aquired a cat to keep our current cat company.

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