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What should you know about raising a new cat?

What should you know about raising a new cat?

2026-03-18 08:27:20 · · #1

The owners are usually office workers who work from 9 to 6 and want to keep two cats so that they can keep each other company. However, the arrival of a new cat can make the existing cat feel threatened. Cats have a certain sense of territory and jealousy, so it is important to understand the following issues before getting a new cat.

What should you know about raising a new cat?

Cats are territorial animals and generally don't welcome new members into their homes. They need ample time to adjust. Since cats have different personalities, and various environmental factors also play a role, this adjustment period can range from 4 to 12 weeks. Ideally, the new cat should be smaller and of the same sex as the existing cat, not yet sexually mature, or have been spayed/neutered, and have a similar personality. However, such combinations are relatively rare in reality. You can estimate the length of the adjustment period based on the following factors and be mentally prepared.

1. Origin of cats: Stray cats are generally more competitive, territorial, and fiercely defensive. Orphaned cats raised by hand are generally more timid and need a longer time to adapt.

2. Size: Smaller new cats pose less of a threat to older cats. Long-haired cats tend to appear larger than they actually are, so don't just look at weight, look at their appearance.

3. Age: Kittens from birth to 12 weeks old lack the ability to accurately assess and react to their environment. These kittens should not be left alone with another cat. It's best to have someone with them at all times. Kittens between 12 weeks and 6 months old are extremely energetic and playful, which can be quite bothersome for older cats, especially senior cats. Kittens between 6 months and 2 years old are still teenagers; older cats should be spayed/neutered, and new cats should also be spayed/neutered as soon as possible. Two sexually mature, unneutered same-sex cats will find it difficult to get along.

Cats over 2 years old are considered fully grown, and their personalities are generally set by this age. Two cats of similar age are more likely to adapt to each other if their reactions to the outside world (timid or bold, etc.) and activity levels (sleeping all day or never still) are similar. Cats over 8 years old are considered seniors. Whether it's a new or old cat, they are more prone to anxiety and depression during this period, so it's advisable to carefully consider bringing a new cat home in this situation.

4. Gender: Cats that haven't reached sexual maturity are rarely considered a threat and are more easily accepted. Spayed/neutered cats are less competitive, territorial, and possessive.

Cats are very jealous animals. If the owner is too enthusiastic about the new cat and neglects the original cat, it will make their relationship even worse. Therefore, you must treat both cats equally.

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