Introducing a 4yr. old to a 12 and 9 yr. old cat

by Ann
( Iowa)

I just want to do it right. Oreo, 4 yr. old,the new one has been in a safe room for over a week. She was just declawed-front, when I brought her home. I've had her check out the house while the other 2 were snoozing on the porch and that door was closed. There's been some growling and hissing behind closed doors. Other than that, no official meeting. I understand hissing will take place, but what about the growling? When should I have them actually meet? I've switched towels around so they can sniff each other out, etc.

I was confused at what herb I should use.

Thanks so much, Ann

RESPONSE:

Not only will there be hissing, there will also be growling, yowling and even some slapping along with running and chasing. Your existing cats will probably try to run the new cat off. This is all normal and usually passes. The rule of thumb for introductions is 10 days to 2 weeks of isolation then supervised visits for another week or so. Depending on the cats, some get along fine and don't need any isolation or supervision while other take months before they learn to tolerate on another. All you can really do is try it and see what happens. Just be prepared to isolate again if things get out of control. Let them his, growl, yowl and slap but if an actual fight breaks out, return one to isolation and start the process over. Regarding your question on what "herb" to use, I'm not sure what you are referring to so I can't respond appropriately.
Let us know how things go!

Donna - House Full Cats Mom