Dr. Pia Salk's Tips to Enjoy More Life and
Less Worry In Your Multiple Cat Home

• Keep Home Smelling Like Home

  Having multiple cats does not mean your home should smell. Use a cat litter like new and improved TIDY CATS® Scoop which is specially formulated to neutralize odors in multiple cat homes.

• Provide “Feline-Spaces”

  Give your cats personal areas where they can retreat if they become agitated or threatened. Consider adding elevated perches, scratching posts, and cozy sleeping nooks to provide safe outlets for their natural behaviors.

• Reward Good Behavior

  Whether human or feline we all like to be recognized for good behavior. Provide extra love and treats to each of your cats as a deserving reward and the others will likely emulate the good behavior.

• Avoid Territory Conflicts

  Consider placing litter boxes in various locations throughout the house to avoid the exclusion of one cat from another cat's territory. Use the 1+1 rule -- have one litter box for each cat in the house, plus an extra one – and make sure to clean them frequently.

• Offer Options

  Offer cats the option of both covered and uncovered litter boxes. Also be sure boxes are placed so that cats do not feel vulnerable when using them and can see what is going on around them.

• Beware of Intruders

  For families that include a dog who likes to nose around the litter box for "snacks", it is a good idea to offer a covered litter box with the opening turned towards a corner or wall (leave about 8 inches from wall). This will allow a cat to access it but prevent a dog from getting to the contents.

Tips for Introducing New Cats Into Multiple Cat Households

While my three rescue cats fulfill and enhance my life every day, having multiple cats requires special care and commitment. Following are some tips I recommend when bringing a new cat into your feline family:

• Assess the Situation

  Make sure you have the space and time needed to bring another cat home. Living with multiple cats is extremely rewarding but also requires increased responsibility and resources.

• Play Matchmaker

  Consider your current cats' personalities before introducing a new cat. Active cats are more likely to accept a young adult cat or kitten. Quieter, more reclusive cats might prefer a mature, adult cat as a companion.

• Be Patient

  Cats like stability, so an environmental or social change may have a pronounced effect on their behavior. Your cat will adapt, but it may take some time so be supportive and patient.

• Reduce Tension

  If your cats exhibit personality conflicts, you can reduce the tension between family felines by making sure each cat has enough personal space and personal possessions to fulfill their needs. Allow an agitated or stressed cat to relax by himself in a quiet room.