Cats are social animals and they can benefit from having a feline friend to play with and cuddle with. However, introducing cats is not always the smooth and easy process we’d like it to be. Cats are territorial pets and they can be very wary of strangers invading their space. Sometimes, they can even show signs of aggression or stress when meeting a new cat for the first time.
But how do you know if your cats are getting along or if they are having trouble adjusting to each other? Here are 8 warning signs every cat owner should watch out for when introducing cats and what you can do to help them become friends.
1. Hissing, growling, or spitting
One of the most obvious signs of aggression when introducing cats is when they hiss, growl, or spit at each other. This is a way of telling the other cat to back off and respect their boundaries. While some hissing and growling is normal and expected during the initial introduction phase, it should not escalate into physical fights or last for too long.
If your cats are constantly hissing and growling at each other, even after several days or weeks of introduction, they are not comfortable with each other and may need more time and space to get used to each other. You can try to separate them into different rooms and only let them see each other through a door or a screen. You can also try to create positive associations between them by feeding them on opposite sides of the door or giving them treats when they are near each other.
2. Swatting, biting, or scratching
Another sign of aggression when introducing cats is when they swat, bite, or scratch each other. This is a more serious form of aggression than hissing and growling and it can lead to injuries or infections. Sometimes, cats may swat or bite each other during playtime, but this is usually gentle and playful and does not cause any harm. However, if your cats are swatting or biting each other with force and intent to hurt, then this is a sign of hostility and dominance.
If your cats are showing this kind of aggressive behavior when introducing cats, you should intervene immediately and separate them before they hurt each other. You can use a loud noise, a spray bottle, or a blanket to distract them and break up the fight. You should never use your hands or feet to separate them as you may get scratched or bitten yourself. You should also check your cats for any wounds or infections and take them to the vet if needed.
3. Avoiding or hiding
Another sign of stress when introducing cats is when they avoid or hide from each other. This is a way of coping with the fear or anxiety of meeting a new cat and it can indicate that they are not ready to interact with each other yet. Sometimes, cats may hide under the bed, in the closet, or in a corner when they first arrive at a new home or when they see a new cat for the first time. This is normal and expected as they need some time to adjust to the new environment and situation.
However, if your cats are avoiding or hiding from each other for a long time or if they seem depressed or lethargic, then this is a sign of trouble when introducing cats. It means that they are not happy with the other cat’s presence, and they may feel threatened or insecure. You can try to make them feel more comfortable by giving them their own space and resources, such as food bowls, litter boxes, beds, toys, etc. You can also try to encourage them to come out of hiding by playing with them, talking to them, or giving them treats.
4. Staring or stalking
Another sign of tension when introducing cats is when they stare at or stalk each other. This is a way of showing interest or curiosity about the other cat but it can also challenge or intimidate them. Sometimes, cats may stare or stalk each other during playtime but this is usually accompanied by friendly body language such as tail wagging, ear twitching, or purring. However, if your cats are staring at or stalking each other with stiff body posture, dilated pupils, flattened ears, or arched backs, then this is a sign of hostility and aggression.
If your cats show this behavior when introducing cats, you should try to distract them and redirect their attention to something else, such as a toy, a treat, or a game. You should also avoid making eye contact with them, as this can be seen as a challenge or a threat. Make sure that they have enough space and escape routes to avoid confrontation.
5. Blocking or chasing
Another sign of dominance when introducing cats is when they block or chase each other. This is a way of asserting their authority or territory over the other cat, making them feel insecure or scared. Sometimes, cats may block or chase each other during playtime but this is usually mutual and fun and does not cause any stress. However, if your cats are blocking or chasing each other with aggression or force, and one cat is always the aggressor and the other is always the victim, this is a sign of bullying and harassment.
If your cats show this behavior when introducing cats, you should try to stop them and separate them before they hurt each other or themselves. You can use the same methods mentioned above to break up the fight or distract them. You should also try to balance the power dynamics between them by giving them equal attention and affection and by rewarding them for good behavior. You should also make sure that they have enough resources and space to avoid competition and conflict.
6. Marking or spraying
Another sign of stress when introducing cats is when they mark or spray their urine or feces around the house. This is a way of marking their territory and communicating their presence to the other cat. Sometimes, cats may mark or spray their scent glands on objects or people that they like or trust such as furniture, toys, or owners. This is normal and harmless and does not indicate any problem. However, if your cats are marking or spraying their urine or feces on walls, floors, doors, windows, or other places that are not meant for elimination, then this is a sign of anxiety and insecurity.
If your cats show this behavior when introducing cats, you should try to clean up the mess and remove the odor as soon as possible. You can use an enzyme-based cleaner that can break down the smell and discourage them from repeating the behavior. You should also try to make them feel more secure and confident by giving them their own litter boxes, scratching posts, beds, etc. You should also try to reduce their stress levels by providing a calm and quiet environment and avoiding sudden changes or loud noises.
7. Not eating or grooming
Another sign of stress when introducing cats is when they stop eating or grooming themselves. This is a way of showing that they are not feeling well or happy and may suffer from physical or emotional issues. Sometimes, cats may lose their appetite or interest in grooming when they are sick, injured, or in pain. This is normal and expected and it should be addressed by taking them to the vet for a check-up to be safe. However, if your cats are not eating or grooming themselves because of the other cat’s presence and if they seem depressed or withdrawn, then this is a sign of trouble when introducing cats.
If your cats are showing this behavior when introducing cats, you should encourage them to eat and groom themselves by offering them their favorite food, treats, toys, etc. You should also try to make them feel more comfortable and relaxed by petting, talking to, or playing with them. You should also monitor their weight and health and take them to the vet if you notice any signs of illness or injury.
8. Fighting
The most serious sign of aggression when introducing cats is when they fight with each other. This is a way of expressing their anger or frustration with the other cat, which can result in serious injuries or even death. Sometimes, cats may fight each other during playtime, but this is harmless and playful and does not cause any damage. However, if your cats exhibit violence and malice when fighting with each other or draw blood and inflict wounds on each other, this is a sign of danger when introducing cats.
If your cats show this behavior when introducing cats, you should intervene immediately and separate them before they kill each other or themselves. You should use the same methods mentioned above to break up the fight or distract them. You should also check your cats for any injuries or infections and take them to the vet if needed.
Conclusion
Introducing cats can be a challenging and stressful process for both you and your feline friends. However, it can also be a rewarding and enjoyable experience if you do it right and pay attention to the signs your cats are giving you. A lot of it comes down to knowing your cat’s normal body language and actions. Following these tips and watching out for these 8 warning signs when introducing cats can help your cats get along.
