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Our Comprehensive Guide to Introducing Cats

Published date: 02 July 2025

Having a home filled with felines sounds like a dream come true.

Cats generally prefer to live alone; however, this doesn’t mean that they can’t get along with one another. The trick is to ensure each cat has individual resources and space. For more tips, read our Guide to Multi-Cat Households.

Secondly, it is important to introduce your cats properly and be prepared. If you are considering adding another feline to the family, here is our step-by-step guide.

Should I introduce a male or female cat?

The truth is the sex of the cat is a lot less important than their personality. Every cat is different and some cats mesh better together.

So, when looking for another cat, consider the following:

  • Cats that are neutered will be less territorial, which can reduce a source of stress in a multi-cat household
  • The age of your cat is important. Remember, a mature moggy may not want to share their home with a young, excitable cat
  • Less active and sleepy cats may not get along with cats who also enjoy being indoors all the time
  • If your cat has a health concern, this can make introductions harder, as they can feel weaker and intimidated by other cats
  • Cats that have been well-socialised as kittens and have had experiences with other cats may be easier to blend into your home

If your cat gets defensive over other cats in the garden/ outdoors it is worth reconsidering introducing another feline into the household.

How to Introduce a Cat or a Kitten

Here are some tips and things to consider when introducing cats or kittens.

  1. Set up a safe secure place for the new cat. Ensure they have all the resources they need – food/drinking area, litter tray, scratcher, a place to sleep and hide and of course toys. Watch our 5 Tips for Happy Cats video for some inspiration.
    A supportive, calming product can be incredibly helpful when introducing a new pet into your home. Shop our Calming Treatments.
  2. The next step is to start scent swapping. This might sound strange but it is essential!
    Collect the scent from one cat by rubbing a cloth gently over their cheeks and forehead. Give your other cat this cloth, start by popping it in the middle of the room and give your cat the choice to interact.
    Cats rely heavily on smell, so this somewhat strange method helps them get used to the scent of another feline. Your cat may react strongly to the scent of another at first; however, the reactions will eventually subside. This is when you move to the next step.
  3. The next step is visual interaction with a glass or see-through barrier. This will allow cats to see each other but not physically touch. Do not force your felines to approach the glass; always allow them the choice. Once confidence grows on both sides, you can switch to a mesh barrier to allow the choice to smell each other.
    After many barrier introductions, hopefully, both cats will be relaxed in the presence of one another.
  4. The next step is the most nerve-wracking- a face-to-face introduction. Ensure the room is set up so there is a clear exit and the ability to get up high. This way, cats can escape if they feel threatened!
    The meeting should be short and positive. Remember to offer tasty treats and toys to both cats. Shop our exciting range of cat and kitten toys.

Allow your cats to meet every day and slowly increase the time they spend with each other. Eventually, you will feel confident enough to allow them to spend an evening together.

Remember to keep a close eye out for any bullying or aggressive behaviour. Read our guide to the Signs of Tension in a Multi-Cat Household.

Common FAQS

Should I introduce a kitten or an adult cat?

Sometimes kittens can be slightly easier to introduce to an adult cat. However, keep in mind every cat will have their own opinions on this...

Young cats can be seen as less intimidating and threatening but remember kittens are still developing. Their personalities will become a lot more apparent as the years and months roll on, so there is the potential for conflict later.

Your adult cat may not have the energy (or patience!) to play with your kitten continuously. So, make sure you play with your kitten every day to get rid of some of their energy.

Can I introduce two kittens?

Introducing kittens can be easier, our best advice is to stick to siblings if you can. There is no guarantee they will get on forever, but this can make it more likely.

If you can’t get siblings, ensure the kittens are a similar age to each other.

Remember to pay attention to your cat’s body language during their introductions. Need help decoding your cat? Read our Guide on The Secret Language of Cats.

Written by Lucy Marcham

Lucy teaches all aspects of the Pets Corner curriculum and specialises in animal nutrition, ensuring that our staff have the right knowledge and understanding of pet diets to assist customers with confidence and care.