Thread: introducing a kitten

You will need to take things slowly Becky and introduce them gradually and supervised. When I have brought home new kittens in the past, I take their basket into a room without cats but used regularly by them - often the kitchen - with a clean litter tray and some food. Let the kitten have a good sniff around and take the basket into the room where the older cats are, so they can sniff the newcomer. Once the kitten is reasonably settled, I will allow one or two of the other cats into the room, or allow the kitten into another room where a cat may be. Let them get close but watch all the time for any sign of aggression. I generally let the newcomer sleep with me for the first few nights, by which time he or she smells more like the pack and the others have seen the kitten a few times.

Food is a big help. Feeding your cats together, making sure they all have their own bowl, or sharing treats, helps them to feel more secure in each other's company. Gentle play, where the kitten has a chance to interact with the other cats is also helpful, providing it is done fairly and sensibly. Hopefully after 4-5 days the new kitten will be accepted and while it may be ignored at first, friendships will be formed over time. Make sure your current cat still has some special attention and playtime so he or she doesn't feel left out, and a few new toys that don't belong to anyone can also help.

Good luck with your new arrival.