What You Can Do If Your Cats Don’t Get Along

Bringing a second cat into your home can be an exciting time, but it often requires patience and effort to ensure a peaceful coexistence. While some cats may bond instantly, others may take longer to adjust—or may initially act like sworn enemies!

If your cats are still not getting along after a week or two, there may be deeper issues at play, such as territorial instincts or stress. Thankfully, there are several steps you can take to help build a positive relationship between your feline companions.

Below Are Some Tips to Help Your Cats Get Along:

1. Make Sure Your Cats Are Spayed or Neutered

The first and most critical step in fostering harmony between your cats is to spay or neuter them. This procedure not only prevents unwanted litters, but also significantly reduces aggressive or territorial behaviors linked to mating instincts.

Spaying or neutering can help calm your cats, making them less likely to view each other as competitors. If one or both of your cats are not yet fixed, consider scheduling the procedure before attempting further introductions.

2. Introduce Your Home Cat to the New Cat’s Scent

Cats rely heavily on scent to identify friends and foes. When a new cat enters your home, their unfamiliar scent can trigger defensive or territorial responses from your resident cat. To ease this transition, work on blending their scents. Use a soft towel to rub one cat, then use the same towel to rub the other cat.

Repeat this process multiple times daily to mix their scents and help them recognize each other as part of the same environment. You can also swap bedding or blankets between the cats to further integrate their smells. Over time, this scent exchange can reduce tension and help them adjust to one another.

3. Spend Quality Time with Your Resident Cat

It’s natural to want to shower your new cat with attention to help them feel welcome. However, it’s equally important to reassure your resident cat that they’re not being replaced. Spend extra one-on-one time with your original cat to show them they’re still loved and valued.

Use this time to engage in their favorite activities, such as playing with toys, brushing their coat, or simply cuddling. Older cats, in particular, may struggle with change and need additional reassurance to feel secure. Balancing attention between both cats can go a long way in reducing jealousy and rivalry.

4. Create Separate Territories for Each Cat

Cats are inherently territorial creatures, and introducing a new feline into an established space can lead to conflicts. Your resident cat may view the new cat as an intruder, while the new cat will need to find their own territory. Help alleviate tension by designating separate spaces for each cat.

Encourage your new cat to adopt a specific area as their own by placing items with their scent—such as a blanket or towel—in the space. Add some enticing treats or a sprinkle of catnip to make the spot more appealing. This strategy can help both cats feel secure and minimize territorial disputes.

5. Gradual Reintroduce Both Cats With a Safe Barrier

If your cats continue to fight or avoid each other, a structured reintroduction process may be necessary. A large dog crate can serve as a safe space for one cat while the other roams freely in the same room. Alternate which cat stays in the crate each day, allowing them to observe and interact with each other from a safe distance. This method helps them become familiar with each other’s presence and scent without the risk of physical altercations.

When the cats seem calmer around each other, you can try supervised interactions in the same room. Offer treats, praise good behavior, and engage them in interactive play to create positive associations. If any aggression occurs, calmly separate them and try again later. Repeat this process until they can coexist peacefully without supervision.

When All Else Fails

If your cats still show hostility despite your efforts, it may be time to consider long-term management strategies. Keep your cats in separate parts of the house and allow supervised interactions only when necessary. Ensure each cat has their own litter box, food, water, and resting areas to reduce competition.

You can also consult a veterinarian or feline behaviorist for professional advice—there may be underlying medical or psychological factors causing the tension. In some cases, pheromone diffusers, like Feliway, can help create a calmer environment by mimicking natural calming signals. Remember, some cats may never become best friends, but with proper management, they can still coexist peacefully in the same home.

Patience is Key

Building a bond between cats doesn’t happen overnight. Some pairs may take weeks—or even months—to fully adjust to one another. Your goal isn’t necessarily to make them best friends but to create an environment where they can coexist peacefully. With patience, consistency, and a little creativity, you can help your cats develop a harmonious relationship.