Plus-Hex CLINICAL
Table 2. Steps for introducing a new cat into a household [ 12 ].
Steps
Step 1
Scent swapping
Actions to be taken
• Start this step once the new cat is settled and has been confined to one room with all of the resources it needs
• Gradually introduce each cat ' s scent to the other to help them recognise each other as part of the same social group
• Swap one piece of each cat ' s bedding so the other has access to it; once they are relaxed / using this piece of bedding then swap it back
• Use a cloth to wipe over the new cat ' s scent glands on its face( under the chin, cheeks and in front of the ears) and then rub this cloth on to furniture and other areas of the house where the resident cat lives
• Be aware of how each cat responds to the scent; if either of them reacts negatively by actively avoiding it or hissing at it, this may suggest the introduction may take longer or might not be successful
Step 2
Exploring each other ' s area
• Start this step once the new cat is completely relaxed in the environment; this may be several days after moving in
• Confine the resident cat briefly in a separate part of the house and allow the new cat to explore the rest of the house
• Alternatively, move the new cat to a different room in the house and allow the resident cat to explore the room the new cat has been staying in
Step 3
Visual contact
• Start this step when both cats are completely relaxed and used to the scent of each other, and keep sessions positive and short
• Allow the cats to see each other through a physical barrier, for example, a door kept slightly open or a stair gate
• Allow the cats to make positive associations with the visual contact. Each cat can be fed treats or played with as a distraction
• Any sign of negative behaviour should be disrupted through distraction, such as distracting one cat away with a toy. Never punish the cat as this will only make it a fearful experience
• If there is more than one resident cat in the household, start the introduction with one cat initially
Step 4
Access with supervision
• Start this step once the cats are comfortable interacting with the physical barrier between them
• Remove the barrier slowly while each cat is distracted with toys or food
• The aim of this step is to ensure the cats are happy in each other ' s presence
• If any negative behaviour is shown, move back a step and replace the barrier
Step 5
Access without supervision
• Start this step when no negative behaviour is being shown during Step 4
• Begin with short periods( a few minutes) of free access; do this frequently
• The time left unsupervised can be increased if positive behaviours are seen
• Ensure each cat continues to have sufficient resources and places to retreat to
Volume 40( 4) • August 2025
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