Help to adjust my new cat to the home

[lozzy214]

Hi this is my first post and I was hoping that I could get some advice.

I have had my cat for about 5 months now and he is the best cat anyone could imagine. He is fearless playful and loving and just immediately loved being my cat.

A friend of mine asked me to babysit his cat for some time due to renovations of their house.
From the moment the cat got here the other day he has not been happy. Didn't want to come out of his cage at first and when did hid immediately. To minimise the risk of the two cats meeting too early I have confined the new one into the old ones room (he usually sleeps in there every night and his litter box was in there but now moved outside).

Now every time someone opens the door the new cat just hisses and growls. He is barely eating and is very very unhappy.

What is something I can do to make this transition easier? I have feliway and have tried to play with him and his toys but not interested in that or any food treats.

Should I still keep him confined or maybe let him and the old cat meet as my first cat loves making friends (there are a few cats in the neighbourhood)

Any suggestions would be great

Thank you

 

[Columbine]

I really wouldn't advise an early meeting between the two cats. Your friend's cat is clearly feeling very insecure and a full on meeting with your guy, however friendly he is, could well make matters worse.

I'd suggest trying to create a predictable routine for the newbie, as that may help him to settle. Call your friend and see if you can have an article of worn, unwashed clothing for their cat to snuggle up to (a top they've worn to sleep or work out in is ideal). If you haven't already, get as many of your friend's cat's possessions as is feasible brought over for him too. The more familiar and comforting you can make his room, the better his chances of relaxing.

Get your friend over for regular visits too - as often as possible - so that their cat doesn't feel abandoned.

You may also find that Composure treats or liquid and/or appropriate flower essences (Jackson Galaxy's Spirit Essences range of Bach Flower Remedies) will ease the transition, though obviously this has to be with your friend's consent.

These articles may help :-
http://www.thecatsite.com/a/six-surefire-strategies-to-reduce-stress-in-cats
http://www.thecatsite.com/a/the-ultimate-yet-simplified-guide-to-introducing-cats
http://www.thecatsite.com/a/introducing-cats-to-cats
http://www.thecatsite.com/a/potential-stressors-in-cats-the-ultimate-checklist
http://www.thecatsite.com/a/separation-anxiety-in-cats