New Cat

[Catmadshaz]

I have had a cat, Smudge since 2013
However my partner said it would be company for Smudge if we got another cat
Since getting another cat, Tikki, about six weeks ago
Smudge doesn't seem to want to know us now
He doesn't come on our bed or come onto our knee like he used to
It's upsetting me a bit now
Has Smudge fallen out with us now

 

[Father of furbabies]

Smudge is slightly put off with the addition to his colony and it will take time for him to adjust to the change. It is similar to when an only child gets a new brother and sister. They do not know what their position is in the family and it will take time to adjust.

Just show him affection when you are able to, try to play with him (just you and him time) if you can a little bit, and other things like that will slowly encourage him to accept that he is not the only kid anymore.

There are more knowledgeable people in the site that can give you better answers.

 

[Catmadshaz]

Hi Father
Thanks for your reply
I will try and give Smudge affection when I can
He used to be such a loving cat

 

[FeebysOwner]

Hi. You might benefit from these TCS articles about introducing cats to one another to see if you would consider implementing some of the approaches discussed in them.

How To Fix An Unsuccessful Cat Introduction

How To Successfully Introduce Cats: The Ultimate Guide

Do Cats Get Jealous? (and What To Do About It When They Do)

How To Introduce A Kitten To An Older Cat

 

[CatLover49]

I have had a cat, Smudge since 2013
However my partner said it would be company for Smudge if we got another cat
Since getting another cat, Tikki, about six weeks ago
Smudge doesn't seem to want to know us now
He doesn't come on our bed or come onto our knee like he used to
It's upsetting me a bit now
Has Smudge fallen out with us now

 

[Tik cat's mum]

I'm sure he will come round and be back to his cuddling soon it's true what others have said cat's are a bit like children. When I got my patches his brother was not happy but he came round give him time.

 

[ArtNJ]

Hyper vigilance is a normal part of cat introductions. Basically, your cat can't relax well enough to enjoy your attention because he feels the need to keep a look out for the new cat. Try getting him in a room where he likes affection and letting him see you are closing the door so he knows the other cat isn't around. You might be able to get him to relax and enjoy pets that way.

 

[Catmadshaz]

Hi everyone, ok we'll give that a try
Smudge used to be so loving

 

[Catmadshaz]

Smudge seems to be accepting Tikki a bit more now
Last night they both slept on our bed

 

[Father of furbabies]

Good to hear. It takes time for them to accept and adjust to a new cat/kitten or any major change. Most cats do not like change but will adjust to it over time.

 

[Catmadshaz]

Our Smudge is so laid back, he's nearly horizontal

 

[Catmadshaz]

Here they are

 

[Maria Bayote]

Adult cats are less likely to easily accept any changes, including new cat/kitten.
Give it time. He will come around.

 

[Catmadshaz]

Ah ok thanks

 

[Catmadshaz]

I'm pleased to say both cats seem to be settling now
They both sleep on our bed
No cat fights

 

[Father of furbabies]

I'm pleased to say both cats seem to be settling now
They both sleep on our bed
No cat fights

That is great to hear. Given enough time, they will start playing together but just watch out for the bigger one to get more aggressive than the little one can handle. I had that problem with Shade being more aggressive in play with Noka as he was close to double her size but since she is now full grown (and only a third smaller than him), she has learned how to bodyslam Shade.

 

[Catmadshaz]

They often go nose to nose with no problems
I think Tikki knows Smudge is boss