New Cat Arrives: Why Is Resident Cat Vomiting and Havin

Part 1: Why Does the Resident Cat Experience Stress When a New Kitten Arrives?

Cats have a strong sense of territory. When a new kitten joins the household, introducing them directly to the resident cat can often lead to stress in the established pet. Typically, the stress that the resident cat feels when a new kitten arrives is often due to the unfamiliar environment and people. Many cats are already accustomed to living with other felines, so they may not be overly surprised by the presence of another cat, thus their hostility is usually not as intense.

However, the resident cat has grown accustomed to a longterm companionship. In its mind, everything in its environment, including its human caregiver, belongs to it. The arrival of a new kitten could potentially threaten its established status, leading to increased excitement and stress. In severe cases, the cat may exhibit symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. In such situations, it's advisable to take the cat to a veterinary hospital promptly to avoid more serious complications.

Part 2: How to Help Two Cats Live Peacefully Together?

A study in the United States has shown that if two cats don't make a good first impression when they meet, it can lead to longterm animosity and an increase in fighting between them.

Therefore, it's crucial not to let the new kitten meet the resident cat directly upon arrival.

So, how can you help them get along?

1. Isolation Feeding

After the new kitten arrives, it's recommended to keep the two cats in separate rooms, preventing any direct contact and minimizing visual and auditory stimuli.

2. Familiarize with Smells

Even though the cats are not meeting facetoface, they can detect the presence of another cat through their scents. Owners can also exchange towels or bedding that have been scented by the cats to allow them to check and blend each other's smells, speeding up the process of getting to know each other.

3. Positive Associations

If the cats are separated by a door, place their food bowls near the door, gradually moving them closer together. This way, the cats can smell each other while eating, slowly building positive associations.

4. Official Meeting

If the cats start scratching at the door while eating, it indicates that they are beginning to show interest in each other. You can then attempt to arrange a direct meeting, but it's best to first keep them in cages. If one cat shows signs of resistance or anger, return to the previous step.

5. Official Contact

Once you have prepared an abundance of food, toys, and living supplies, you can allow the cats to interact directly. If they start fighting, it's necessary to isolate them and try again the next day. Patience is key throughout this process.