ForestWind Siberian Cats

Many folks adopting a ForestWind Siberian Kitten are bringing that kitten home to a house with another cat already in it.Thinking they are providing "Fluffy" with a wonderful playmate, they are disappointed to see that the two felines don't seem to immediately embrace their new buddy. What can you do to help ensure that your kitties do grow to enjoy each other's company?

Begin with closely following our recommendations for Transition time and space. Be "over sure" that your new Kitten is secure, playful, and settled in her transition room before beginning the slow process of creating friends.

Next, spray the bedding with Feliway and swap out their sleeping blankets. This introduces their smell to each other along with the calming hormonal keys of safety.

A few days later, remove the kitten to another closed space (bring a litter box and water!), and allow your cat unfettered access to the Transition Room for at least an hour. Simply leave the door open. 

Two days later, removing your kitten, put your Cat in the Transition Room, give her a small plate of her favorite healthy food, and close the door. Now allow your kitten - supervised - to play on the Cat's climber, with her toys, etc. This will leave the kitten's scent in the Cat's space.

Face to face meetings should begin with Kitten closed in a carrier and near you, and your older Cat free to explore. Consider doing this when the family is around and about. Give lots of attention to your Cat, and simply soothe the kitten so she remains calm. A towel or blanket over most of the crate to provide the security of a cave helps the kitten. Do not allow the cat to growl threateningly at your kitten. If she continues to growl, remove her to a place with a door and leave her there for about 15 to 30 minutes (long enough that she is clear this is a result of her aggression).

A day or two after the enclosed face to face meetings, introduce the kitten to your Cat in a space with a hideaway for the kitten, and several "up" locations for both cats. In a home with more than one cat it is essential to provide a variety of options for going "up" - whether they be shelving, wall steps, cubbies, or cat towers, all give each cat the opportunity to be "top dog" (winkl) as well as to experience the safety of being out of harm's way.

During these meetings, an essential daily step is offering your cat and new kitten lots of active parallel play (two people, each with a teaser, for example), this helps your Cat find that there is no 'loss' in having another feline about.

Offering desired and healthy treats when you 'catch them' gently together, as above, supports their understanding that being "like this" = good things happen. if they are being testy or unpleasant to each other, separate time outs in shut rooms with no interaction with mom or dad will quickly underline that negative behavior results in lack of stimulation and company. Sibis are very smart and learn quickly by association.

Above all be calm yourself, patient, and remember to gently intervene BEFORE anything ever gets out of hand. Cats hold grudges a LONG time, and it is easier to prevent a deeply negative experience than to try to repair a relationship that has grown increasingly hostile. There is no harm in quite an extended transition period for your new kitten - at least having her sleep in her Transition Room solo - until you are beyond sure that both felines feel secure, safe, and well loved.

Happy cuddling!

ForestWind Siberians