People who have one cat often want to get another so they have a playmate. Because cats have strong territorial concepts and individual awareness, when choosing a new cat you should first consider whether the two cats can coexist peacefully in terms of age, gender, and personality.

　　Smaller new cat preferred: If possible, the new cat should be smaller in size and younger in age than the original cat to be less threatening.

　　Avoid male cat combinations: It is best to avoid pairing two male cats, because even if they get along well during kittenhood, when they reach sexual maturity, mutual aggression between male cats may occur. Neutering the cats can somewhat reduce this aggressive behavior. Lastly, in terms of personality, don’t choose cats that are too opposite to the original cat’s traits, for example, an overly lively cat may make a shy and nervous cat very tense.

　　New cat should be isolated for 1-2 weeks: A newly brought home cat should first be isolated for one to two weeks to prevent transmitting any possible diseases to the cats at home. The isolation room prepared for the new cat should have independent food bowls and litter boxes. The location of the new cat’s room should be chosen so as not to disturb the original cat’s routines. After placing the new cat into the isolation room, let it explore this new environment by itself. Then spend several hours each day accompanying it so it can gradually accept you as its new owner.

　　The contact between two cats should be gradual: Next is to introduce the two cats to each other. First, bring a cat carrier or sleeping mat with the scent of one cat for the other cat to smell. When both cats no longer reject each other’s scent and the new cat becomes accustomed to your petting, take the cat out of the isolation room. Initially, do not let them stay together for too long, then gradually extend the new cat’s time outside the room. Meanwhile, the owner must observe for any fighting. If a fight begins, do not rush to separate them (you might also get scratched). Wait until the situation cools down, then bring the new cat back to the isolation room and try a different tactic: change the isolation room door to a screen door or open a small gap and secure it. This way, they can see each other, and even slightly touch but cannot fight. Also, feed both cats simultaneously on either side of the door, using food to reduce hostility, then depending on the situation, bring the new cat back outside the room again.