How to Add a Second Pet and Avoid Cat Behavior Problems

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As an animal lover, naturally you ask yourself what is the harm in adding a second pet to your home. For you, adding a new cat or dog is only a matter of joy and excitement. Yet the same probably can’t be said for your current cat. For all the time cats spend by themselves you would think they would be happy with the addition of a permanent playmate. But bringing a new pet into your cat’s domain is a delicate process that could lead to negative consequences and cat behavior issues, such as your cat disappearing into the far corners of your home, a stop in litter box use or agitation resulting in growling or clawing. To avoid unpleasant moments when introducing a new pet and other cat behavior problems, take into consideration the following tips.

  • Take things slowly. Don’t unleash your new pet on your home from the moment you walk through the door. That would be one way to surely startle your resident cat. Be patient and make sure to remember to work on your cat’s timetable, not yours.
  • Separate your animals’ items. Give your pets their own individual water and food bowls, litter boxes and if necessary, scratching posts. It’s also best to give your new cat its own area within your home. It will allow for not only your original cat, but both animals to adjust to the new living arrangement.
  • Visit the veterinarian. This is mutually beneficial to both pets. You want to make sure the new animal is healthy and, for the sake of your first feline, isn’t bringing any unwanted ailments into its new surroundings.
  • Use Comfort Zone® with Feliway® products. One of the easiest ways to make certain your original cat doesn’t have any cat behavior issues is to take advantage of Comfort Zone® with Feliway® pheromone-based products. Comfort Zone® products are known for helping alleviate fear and stress experienced by cats and reducing the negative behaviors that are associated with these situations.

With a sensitive yet devoted commitment to the comforts of both your furry friends and the use of Comfort Zone® with Feliway®, don’t be surprised if you find your pets playing together in no time. Learn more about Comfort Zone® with Feliway® products and find a retailer near you.