New Kitten

sabrinamcausey

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Salem is not yet a year old and I have had her since she was six weeks old. She is super playful and constantly runs around. She doesn't like to cuddle or really be petted much but she always wants to be in the same room as whoever is home. She is also what I have read to be an aggressive player. She tries to bite even though we have discouraged this behavior from the beginning by making a "hands and feet are not toys" policy, didn't help. So I thought I'd get her a playmate to calm her down. 

I got Rocket three days ago so they could be playmates! (When I first got Salem, the vet suggested a playmate) But she hates him, a lot. I've tried the slow introduction thing. At first I just let them see each other while Rocket stayed in the bathroom but in the past 24 hours he has come out and explored the adjacent room. Salem is hissing and has even swatted at him several times now. Every time this happens I take rocket back to the bathroom and then pet Salem but she has even hissed at me now. 

The whole purpose of this was so that Salem could be happier and have a playmate. I don't want them to just tolerate each other but from everything I've read, that's all I can hope for. And now I'm afraid I've completely messed up the slow introductions thing. I hate confining Rocket to the bathroom.
 

MoochNNoodles

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Welcome to TCS! 


3 days is not much time at all when it comes to cat introductions. 
 The introduction process is different for each cat.  Normally; I would prepare for it to take weeks.  For some cats; it can even take a few months and that is completely normal!  
  Younger cats may adjust quicker; but it really does depend on each cat.  

I would separate them again.  Give your new kitty Rocket a safe room with all his needs met and give them both a few days to calm down.  Then begin introductions again.  Here are the steps we generally recommend: http://www.thecatsite.com/a/introducing-cats-to-cats.  Go very slow with it; pay close attention to scent swapping and the feeding techniques mentioned in the article.  If they are not ready for the next step; back up a bit and try again in a day or two.  Patience can be key and in the end; bring harmony sooner than rushing things.  Cats are territorial; so really Salem is just following her nature.  As their scents begin to mingle and become familiar she should do better.  Keep us updated on how its going!
 
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sabrinamcausey

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Thanks so much for responding! I did some more scent swapping last night but kept them separated. When I got home today, the bathroom door was cracked ( by accident apparently) and Rocket and Salem were in my room just chilling... kinda. They have been together for about an hour now and have been like play fighting i guess. There has been no hissing, growling or blood shed! They also are laying down and showing their bellies in front of each other so I think they are playing and comfortable around each other.

@MoochNNoodles
 
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