Turning an outdoor stray into an indoor cat

by Stephanie again

My friend is going to adopt a stray cat that has been coming to her door for food for a couple of years now. (He will be neutered and tested before he comes home.) He is not feral, he is semi-friendly but still reluctant. Will it be possible for him to acclimate and live a happy life indoors when he has lived outdoors all his life? To make matters more complicated, my friend also has 2 resident cats that this new cat will have to get used to. One of her cats is also very territorial. Do you have any ideas on how to make this particular integration process happen? It seems like it will be a very difficult time for all concerned. Thank you for your time.

RESPONSE

It will take time but it can be done. And some cats integrate better than others. Keep him isolated when he comes home from the vet as he will be feeling vulnerable and have "icky vet smells" on him. After a couple of days, lock the other 2 cats up and let him out to explore the house. Then put him back and let the others out.
Mix their scents by rubbing a towel on them and leaving it where they can sniff at it.
Your friend may want to try a Spirit Essences or Bach Flower Remedies (click links on the left) to help with the transition. No matter what, there will likely be some hissing and growling and the stray may want out. Give it time, take it day by day and continually assess the situation. It may go very smooth. You just never know with cats! Tell your friend to feel free to contact us with any specific issues that may come up.

Donna
House Full Cats Mom