Getting two cats to get along can be tough. Cats are territorial by nature, and introducing a new cat to your household—or getting two existing cats to live peacefully—requires patience and the right approach. If you’re wondering how to get cats to get along, this guide will give you practical steps to create harmony in your home.
Why Don’t Cats Always Get Along?
Before diving into how to fix things, it’s important to understand why your cats might not get along. Cats are natural loners in the wild. They’re used to protecting their own space and resources. When another cat enters the picture, they may feel like they need to defend what’s theirs. This is why fights can happen.
Some common signs that your cats are not getting along include:
- Hissing or growling
- Swatting or scratching
- One cat avoiding the other, hiding, or running away
- Fighting over food, water, or litter box space
Luckily, with time and patience, you can help get two cats to get along and create a peaceful home.
1. Slow Introductions Are Key
When introducing a new cat to your home, the worst thing you can do is rush the process. Cats need time to adjust to each other’s scent and presence. Here’s how to get your cats to get along by taking it slow:
Step 1: Separate Spaces
Start by giving each cat their own space. This means separate rooms with their own litter box, food, water, and toys. Keep the cats apart for at least a few days to a week. During this time, they will get used to each other’s scent without feeling threatened.
Step 2: Scent Swapping
Cats recognize each other through smell. To help them get comfortable, you can swap their bedding or toys between the two spaces. This allows them to get used to each other’s scent without face-to-face contact. Scent swapping helps create a sense of familiarity.
Step 3: Visual Introduction
After a few days, let the cats see each other from a safe distance. You can use a baby gate or crack the door slightly so they can peek at one another without direct contact. Watch how they react. If they seem calm, this is a good sign.
Step 4: Short Supervised Visits
Once the cats seem comfortable with each other’s scent and sight, it’s time to let them meet face-to-face under your supervision. Keep these sessions short at first, and give both cats treats or toys to distract them. If they stay calm and show no aggression, you can gradually increase their time together.
2. Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a great way to help your cats learn to associate good things with being around each other. One way to make two cats get along is by rewarding them when they are calm and relaxed in each other’s presence.
Every time the cats are near each other without hissing or fighting, give them treats or praise. This encourages them to connect being around each other with positive experiences. You can also use playtime to help them bond. Use interactive toys like wands or laser pointers to engage both cats in play. This helps them burn off energy and have fun together.
3. Provide Separate Resources
One big reason cats don’t get along is because they feel like they have to compete for resources. To prevent this, make sure each cat has access to their own food, water, and litter box. This is important if you want to make your cats get along without stress or jealousy.
Experts recommend having one litter box per cat, plus one extra. The same goes for food and water bowls. Spread these resources around the house so the cats don’t feel the need to guard their stuff. This will help reduce tension between them.
4. Watch for Warning Signs
Even if the introduction seems to be going well, you need to watch for any signs of trouble. Some cats may start to show aggression if they feel threatened. If you notice warning signs like hissing, swatting, or staring contests that seem tense, separate the cats and give them a break.
If a fight breaks out, don’t try to separate them with your hands, as this could get you scratched. Instead, use a towel to separate them, or make a loud noise (like clapping) to distract them. Give both cats space to calm down after a fight.
5. Offer Plenty of Stimulation
Cats who are bored or stressed can become more aggressive toward each other. To help prevent this, make sure both of your cats have plenty of ways to stay active and entertained. Give them scratching posts, climbing trees, and lots of toys to play with. This will keep them busy and less likely to get into fights.
You should also spend time playing with each cat individually. This helps them feel secure and loved, which can reduce their need to act out toward the other cat. A happy, confident cat is more likely to get along with others.
6. Be Patient
Figuring out how to get 2 cats to get along takes time. Every cat is different, so what works for one might not work for another. It’s important to stay patient and allow your cats to adjust at their own pace. Rushing the process will only make things harder. It could take weeks, or even months, for the cats to fully accept each other.
Don’t be discouraged if progress is slow. As long as the fights are few and far between, you’re on the right track. Just remember to reward good behavior and stay consistent with your approach.
7. Seek Professional Help If Needed
If you’ve tried everything and your cats still aren’t getting along, it might be time to seek help from a professional. A vet or animal behaviorist can help you understand the root of the problem and offer solutions tailored to your cats. In some cases, health issues like pain or illness can cause aggression, so it’s always a good idea to rule out any medical problems.
FAQ’s
1. How long does it take for two cats to get along?
It varies. Some cats can take a few days, while others might need weeks or even months to adjust. Patience is key when helping your cats develop a positive relationship.
2. Can I introduce two cats right away?
No, it’s best to take a slow and gradual approach. Introduce them through scent first, then visually, and finally allow supervised meetings to help prevent conflict and stress.
3. Why do my cats fight even after living together for a while?
Cats may fight due to territorial issues, competition for resources, or stress. Ensure they have separate food, water, and litter boxes, and offer plenty of stimulation to reduce tension.
4. What should I do if my cats start fighting?
If a fight breaks out, never separate them with your hands. Instead, distract them with a loud noise or use a towel to break their line of sight. Give both cats space to calm down.
5. How can I tell if my cats are getting along?
Signs that cats are getting along include grooming each other, playing without aggression, and resting near each other. If they’re calmly coexisting, that’s a good sign of progress.
6. Should I give up if my cats don’t get along quickly?
No, don’t give up too soon! It takes time for some cats to adjust. Keep working with positive reinforcement, and consider seeking help from a vet or behaviorist if the aggression continues.
Conclusion
Getting two cats to live peacefully together may take time, but it’s not impossible. By following these steps—starting with a slow introduction, using positive reinforcement, and making sure both cats have what they need—you can help make your cats get along. Remember that each cat is different, and it may take a little trial and error to figure out the best approach.
For more tips and advice on keeping your cats happy and healthy, be sure to visit cattoptips! Whether you’re a new cat owner or a seasoned pro, there’s always something new to learn about your feline friends.
