Caring for Multiple Cats

Do you have more than one kitty? If there’s one thing that is bound to melt hearts, it’s the sight of two cats snuggled up together for a nap. Unfortunately, not all multi-cat homes are quite so idyllic. Our feline friends are often very territorial, and can get quite jealous of one another. Below a Pickerington, OH vet offers tips on keeping the peace between your furballs.

First Impressions

First impressions are a very big deal to kitties. When bringing another pet into your home, put your new cat in a separate room, with toys, treats, litterbox, food, and bedding. Make introductions slowly and carefully. It can take months to undo the damage done by a bad first meeting!

Play Sessions

Play with your cats, both separately and together. Individual play sessions will be help you bond with your kitties, while group play will help your furballs form positive associations with one another. Plus, this will help your feline pals burn off excess energy. When playtime is over, they’ll be more interested in napping than in bickering.

Good Vibrations

Give your cats lots of toys and treats together. Also, be sure to pay equal attention to them. This can be challenging for people with kittens. Baby cats are almost unbearably cute, and it’s nearly impossible to resist cuddling them. This can make older felines very, very jealous!

Plenty For All

Cats sometimes fight with one another when they feel they need to compete over resources. Offer your pets plenty of kitty toys. Kitties all have their own unique tastes, so get a variety of playthings. When shopping for cat furniture, choose things that can fit all of your furballs at once.

Feeding

Feeding can be tricky, especially if your pets have different nutritional needs. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.

Litterboxes

Cats hate sharing bathrooms! Give each kitty a private litterbox. We recommend getting one per cat, plus at least one extra.

Veterinary Care

Veterinary care is important for all cats, but it’s particularly crucial for kitties with feline roommates. All of your furballs should be microchipped, spayed or neutered, and current on their vaccinations. Parasite control is also important. Keep your kitties on the same schedule: otherwise, fleas may just jump from Mittens to Fluffy!

Please contact us, your Pickerington, OH animal clinic, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!