Successful cat introductions rely on patience and controlled exposure. Rushing often leads to fear, fighting, and long-term tension. Plan for a multi-week process rather than a single supervised meeting.

Start by giving the new cat a dedicated room with litter box, food, water, hiding spots, and toys. Let the resident cat maintain the rest of the house at first. Feed both cats on opposite sides of a closed door so they associate each other’s presence with something positive. Swap bedding or towels between cats daily so they exchange scents before they see each other.

When both seem relaxed at the door, crack the door or use a baby gate with visual blocking at first, then short glimpses. Move to brief supervised sessions in a neutral space with escape routes and high perches. Use toys and treats to create calm, parallel activities rather than forced face-to-face contact.

Watch body language: flattened ears, growling, stalking, or blocking litter boxes are signs to slow down. Hissing without escalation can be normal early on. Provide one litter box per cat plus one extra, separate feeding stations, and multiple resting areas to reduce resource competition.

If fights occur or either cat stops eating or using the box, separate them again and consult your veterinarian or a qualified behavior professional. Some pairs need longer timelines; others become friends quickly. Consistency matters more than speed.