What is the best way to introduce a new cat into the household?
There are two philosophies on this point: take it slow and easy or let them duke it out. Personally I have always followed the let them duke it out plan. This consists of letting the new cat go in the house immediately and letting the pertinent parties settle their new heirarchy on their own terms. There may be some minor battles, but unless the cats are actually causing bodily harm to one another, then they can be allowed to work it out. I have never (knock on wood) had cats get that violent. It’s generally been contained to hisses and off-hand swats, generally lasting only a day or two. The cautious way is to bring the new cat in and put it in a separate room where the resident cat(s) can’t see it but can smell it. Then after a day or two put the two cats in carriers next to each other but not necessarily facing each other so they’re still working on smell, then facing each other so they can see, then let the resident cat out for further exploration and if they seem to be OK, letting
