September is Happy Cat Month: How to Help all Felines Thrive in a Multi-Cat Household

We are half-way through our Happy Cat Month celebration designed to provide you with information on how to give your cat a happy, fulfilling, and joyful life. So far this month, we have discussed ways to keep your cat healthy and how to create an enriching environment that appeals to their feline nature.

•       Week 1 – Happy Healthy Cat (September 1-5)

•       Week 2 – Happy Enriched Cat (September 6-12)

•       Week 3 – Happy Multi-Cat (September 13-19)

•       Week 4 – Happy Valued Cat (September 20-30)

This week's focus is on how to keep all the feline members of a multi-cat household happy! By following a few guidelines, it is possible to have several cats living in the same place without fights.

Consider a Second Cat

There is a myth that cats are aloof loners. In reality, felines are exceptionally social and love to play and interact with each other. If you only have one cat, consider visiting the shelter to adopt one more. It is essential to make sure all your cats are spayed or neutered, preferably at the age of four months, to reduce the chance of aggressive behavior.

Introduce New Cats Gradually

When you decide to add another cat to your household, keep the new member in a separate room for a couple of days with a bed, food bowl, water source and litter box. This gradual introduction allows your felines to hear and smell each other without interaction. If the cats seem relaxed after a couple of days, crack the door open one inch and watch how they treat each other. If you see any signs of aggression, close the door, and repeat the process in a few days.

Separate the Resources

Cats are territorial and often do not like to share litter boxes, beds or food bowls. You can reduce competition for these items by giving each cat their own resources. Place multiple food bowls, beds, and litter boxes in separate areas of your home. Make sure you have enough hiding spots and perches so that each cat has his or her own space for those times they want to be alone.

At Pet Hospitals of Hawaii, we have the experience and expertise to take care of all of your cat's needs. All of our doctors, nurses and technicians care for your pets as we do our own.