Adopting a kitten may be synonymous with joy, but perhaps not everyone in the multispecies family will be happy with its arrival. For example, for an adult cat, accustomed to living only with its humans, meeting a new individual will be difficult and stressful. Many times fights will be generated or serious signs of anxiety will manifest.
For this reason, on World Cat Day, the National Commission for Responsible Pet Ownership of the Veterinary Medical College of Chile (Colmevet), delivers some recommendations to avoid conflicts and enjoy our gifts to the fullest.
“To prevent difficulties among our cats it is very important that the guardians perform an appropriate induction protocol. This requires time, patience and stages, which consider processes of pheromonal exchange between both cats, environmental enrichment and behavioral modification exercises, “says Ana Francisca Soto, veterinary doctor and clinical ethologist, spokesperson for Colmevet.
Thus, says the veterinary doctor, during the first days, the new cat must remain in a room conditioned for him, so that he can not have physical contact with the resident cat. The room must have water, food, sandbox, toys and objects from your previous residence (such as a blanket).
For the first interactions, it is suggested to approach the feeders on both sides of the door that serves as a physical barrier between both cats. “In this way, they can be heard and smelled, but without seeing each other. The food should be very delicious, so that they associate the presence of the other cat with positive reinforcement. You can also play with cats on either side of the door.
After this stage, if the cats feel relaxed when perceived between the door, we can start with eye contact. We can use the same door that separates both territories, opening it a few inches so that they can be seen, but not hurt. They can also interact through a window. At this stage again positive reinforcement (rich food, game) should be used.
Finally, there is direct contact under supervision. The idea is to do it at the beginning at a considerable distance, and to approach them little by little. If we observe behaviors of discomfort or aggressiveness, it is best to interrupt the interaction. Contacts should be brief, accompanied by pleasant stimuli.
Throughout the process it is important to be patient and understand the feline language very well. The time it will take depends on the socialization that each cat has had and its origin, and finally we must understand that the arrival of a new member to our multispeciful family, is a responsibility that requires commitment and dedication throughout their life.
