Dear VetBabble,
I recently brought home two 11-week old kittens from different litters (one male and one female). However, since we brought them home, the female has been hissing and growling at the male and they don’t seem to get along. Do you have any suggestions to help them become friends?
Helping Your New Kittens Get Along
Congratulations on your adorable new additions! First of all, it’s important to recognize that it’s completely normal for new pets to be a bit tense and unsure of each other. With enough patience and understanding, you can help your kittens become the best of friends. To assist in this process, consider the following advice in three sections: separating the cats, reintroducing them, and providing the appropriate environment for them to interact.
Separating the Cats
To begin with, it’s essential to give each kitten their own space and time to adjust. Place the more aggressive kitten in a separate room with her own food, water, and litter box. This will allow both kittens the opportunity to acclimate to their new surroundings and each other’s scents. Check out our articles on Introducing A New Pet To Your Furry Family and Introducing a New Cat to Your Existing Cat for more detailed guidance on this process.
Reintroducing the Kittens
After a few days, you can gradually start reintroducing the kittens to one another. Feed them treats on either side of the door separating them, so they associate positive experiences with each other’s scent. Next, place the aggressive kitten in a cat carrier and let the other kitten enter the room. This controlled interaction will help them grow accustomed to each other without the risk of violence. If either kitten shows signs of aggression or upset, remove the second cat from the room and try again later. Always praise them when they interact appropriately. Our article on How can I stop my cats fighting in a multicat household? can provide more tips on handling these situations.
Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment
As the kittens start to accept each other’s presence, it’s crucial to provide them with a comfortable living space that caters to their needs. A cat tree with multiple shelves will offer both kittens a refuge when they want to retreat to their personal space. Additionally, take note of any changes in your home that may affect their ability to get along, such as moving to a new house. Our article on Moving House With Cats can help you navigate these changes while ensuring the well-being of your feline companions.
In conclusion, remember that patience is key when introducing new pets to one another. By taking the time to separate, reintroduce, and create a safe environment for your kittens, you’ll set the stage for a harmonious relationship between both furry friends. Best of luck, and we hope our advice helps!
