Two plus two equals squabbles

by Sandra
(Reading, PA)

We adopted my parents' two cats (Sunny and Buddy) and are trying to introduce them to the two cats we already have (Blake and Shadow). We have been at it for over two months, with the first few weeks spent trying to get the new and very nervous cats to be friendly even to us. One of them is still pretty standoffish. Each of the pairs get along well but the four can't seem to find an understanding - except in my office when I am in it. When our larger cat Blake has a skirmish with Buddy, Sunny comes to Buddy's aid. Shadow is the only female and she gets very worked up when one of the new cats hiss at her. Sunny yowls when skirmishes begin and that seems to scare all of us. Sometimes they all do manage to ignore each other for long stretches of the day, and that always feels like a great success. We don't leave them alone because I'm worried they will hurt each other. My house presents limited options for separating the cats. I can close off bedrooms, but that's it. Any ideas would be appreciated.

RESPONSE:

We understand your concerns but actually, this behavior is very normal and it sounds like they are working things out. Your cats are resentful of the interlopers in their house and the new cats lives have been turned upside down by having to move in with them. All of them are feeling the stress!
More interactive play time will help them burn off this nervous energy in a more constructive way. Tired cats are happy cats! Use a fishing pole type toy, Cat Dancer, or toss a paper or ping pong ball to attempt to distract them from each other when they start getting their fur up.
Give them treats when they are in the same room and acting calm. Feed them in the same room using seperate dishes for each and not too close to each other. Food and treats will help them to associate good things with each other.
You can also try using Bach Flower Essences or Spirit Essences to help them feel calmer. (Click the links on the left to read more about Essences and cats)
Otherwise, as long as there is no knock down drag out fighting with biting and blood being drawn, let them keep working things out in their own way. They may never become best buds but is sounds as though they are already well on their way to learning how to co-exist with each other.

Donna
House Full Cats Mom