Introducing your Cat to the Rest of the Family
If there are children in your house, especially small ones, introduce your cat to them gradually, during short periods of time. Frequent handling and gently playing are important, but children must understand that your cat is a sensitive, living creature. Teach the children how to pick him up and hold him. Slip one hand under his chest, holing the front legs gently but firmly with your fingers. At the same time, cup the other hand under your cat’s hindquarters. Never pick him up by the scruff of the neck or by his legs. Children must learn not to pull the cat’s tail or ears, squeeze or poke him, make loud, threatening noises or go toward him too rapidly.
A good way for both children and adults to play with a cat is to get down on the floor at his level to make him feel more secure. Remind children that even a small child can look like a giant to a cat. And a gentle cat may resort to scratching or biting to protect himself if he’s frightened.
If there are other pets in the house, introduce them to your cat with care and caution. An older cat, male or female, will usually accept a new kitten and will eventually help take care of him. But do not leave them alone together until you are sure they are friends.
Here are a few steps you can follow to introduce your new kitten to an older pet.
Make introductions slowly and confine your new kitten to its own room for a couple weeks
Begin introducing your kitten by first open the door to her room a crack and letting the other cats know she is there and vice versa
After a couple days put your new kitten in her carrier and let the other pets in the house in the room. Except some hissing at first but don’t be discouraged.
You can also rub a blanket or toy against your new kitten and give it to the other cats so they can get used to her scent. Also do the same to the older cats and give the item to the kitten.
With in a week or two everyone should be getting along just remember to be patient
Most dogs and cats also get along, but this may take a little longer. There may be scuffles, hissing and barking, but there is every chance that before long they will be playing together. Again, it’s smart not to leave them together unattended until you see the situation clearly.
But whether your other pet is a dog or a cat, remember to show him extra love and affection so that he won’t be jealous of the newcomer. And don’t force your older animal to accept your cat immediately. Let him do it at his own pace.