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Re-introducing cats.
I have an older really relaxed cat .I moved in with my boyfriend that has a 4years cat that’s very spicy but can be nice. We have been having them separated for six months in different rooms. My cat is finally getting used to her scent, but his cat cannot stand my cat sent. They ran into each other a couple of times, but nothing physical. A couple of chases and hiss .We never swapped them into different rooms because we couldn’t get past the sent and they was too aggressive. Do you have any tips that we can do to help this process of them not being locked away and permanently separated.
Please and thank you we were greatly appreciated it.
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2 Replies
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Hi Sarah
Thank you so much for reaching out for some help.
You have three options:
- Option 1: Restart the introduction process from the
beginning and be patient until your boyfriend’s female cat no longer
reacts negatively to your cat’s scent. This process can take considerable
time, especially since the cats have been separated for 6 months. - Option 2: To successfully reintroduce the cats,
start by harness and clicker training both cats in their respective rooms.
While you can restart the reintroduction process, you can also speed it up
since you’ve already been partially scent-swapping by stroking each cat.
Please continue with bed swapping for now. To help incorporate each cat’s
scent into the home, use a cloth or glove to rub it on the prominent
areas. If both cats enjoy being brushed, use a slicker brush to help
intermingle their scents. Additionally, use positive reinforcement with
treats to help them create positive associations with each other’s
presence while they are both in the same room (not too close to each
other) while on harness and leash. This isn’t ideal, though both cats will
see each other without interacting face-to-face; with time, they will get
used to seeing each other. However, the hissing and bullying may continue. - Option 3: Partition the home to accommodate both
cats by having a clear divider or barrier like a reinforced cat screen
mesh or glass door.
To achieve harmony in the home, it’s best to start the introduction process from scratch. However, I understand that not everyone has the time or patience for this approach. For example, I once had a client with a very territorial female cat, and it took her about a year to accept and tolerate another cat.
I hope that helps
Melina
- Option 1: Restart the introduction process from the
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Hi Sarah.
When I was reintroducing my mother/daughter duo we got stuck at the separation stage as well.
I was finally able to lure them to the screen door separation space using the Feliway spray product. I literally sprayed it on the base of the screen door. It was interesting enough to both of them that they would come into the space and I could use their favorite treats as a reward. I would do this two or three times a day and spend time sitting with each girl.
It’s obvious that you care so much for both of these kitties. Hope this helps a bit.
Marjorie (with purrs from Peach and Cherry)
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