How To Introduce A New Kitten To Your Cat: A Step-by-Step Guide?

Introducing a new kitten to your resident cat can be a rewarding experience, fostering companionship and enriching your home. However, it’s essential to approach this process carefully to minimize stress and ensure a harmonious relationship. At solcat.net, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate this transition smoothly, providing expert tips and advice to create a peaceful environment for both your feline companions. By understanding feline behavior and implementing a structured introduction plan, you can pave the way for a lifelong friendship between your cats.

Table of Contents

Create a Safe and Separate Space
Acclimate Through Scent Introduction
Supervised Visual Introductions
Controlled Physical Interactions
Managing Potential Conflicts
Understanding Feline Communication
Providing Adequate Resources
Maintaining a Positive Environment
Dealing with Specific Challenges
Seeking Professional Guidance
The Benefits of a Multi-Cat Household
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Success Stories and Testimonials
Advanced Techniques for Harmonious Living
Maintaining Long-Term Harmony
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How To Set Up A Separate Space For Your New Kitten?

Creating a separate space for your new kitten is crucial for a stress-free introduction to your resident cat. This dedicated area provides the kitten with a safe haven, allowing it to acclimate to its new environment without feeling overwhelmed. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), a secure space helps reduce anxiety and promotes a smoother transition for both cats.

Select a Quiet Room: Choose a spare bedroom, bathroom, or any quiet area that can be easily closed off from the rest of the house.
Equip the Space: Furnish the room with essential items to meet the kitten’s needs:

Item	Description
Litter Box	Place it away from food and water to encourage proper hygiene.
Food and Water	Use separate bowls and keep them clean and accessible.
Bedding	Provide a cozy bed or blanket for the kitten to sleep on.
Scratching Post	Essential for scratching and marking territory in a non-destructive way.
Toys	Offer a variety of toys for entertainment and stimulation.
Hiding Places	Cardboard boxes or cat caves allow the kitten to retreat and feel secure.

Ensure Comfort: Maintain a comfortable temperature and provide soft lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Introduce Gradually: Allow the kitten to explore the space at its own pace, ensuring it feels safe and secure.

Alt text: A fluffy ginger kitten exploring its new safe room filled with toys, a cozy bed, and a clean litter box.

2. How Can Scent Introduction Help Acclimate Your Cats?

Scent is a primary form of communication for cats, and introducing scents before direct contact can significantly reduce stress and aggression. According to research from the Cornell Feline Health Center, scent swapping allows cats to become familiar with each other’s presence in a non-threatening way.

Scent Swapping:
- Use Towels or Blankets: Rub a clean towel or blanket on each cat to collect their scent.
- Exchange Scents: Place the towel or blanket with the kitten’s scent near your resident cat’s favorite spot and vice versa.
- Monitor Reactions: Observe how each cat reacts to the new scent. Positive signs include sniffing, rubbing against the item, or ignoring it.
Scent Soaking:
- Use Socks: Wear a pair of socks and gently stroke each cat with them to transfer their scent.
- Introduce the Socks: Place the socks in each cat’s respective areas.
- Observe: Watch for signs of acceptance or aversion.
Scent Placement:
- Use Feliway: Consider using Feliway diffusers, which release synthetic feline pheromones that can help reduce anxiety.
- Place Strategically: Position the diffusers in areas where the cats spend the most time.
Patience is Key:
- Allow Time: Give your cats several days to adjust to the new scents before moving on to the next stage.
- Repeat: Repeat the scent swapping process regularly to reinforce familiarity.

3. How Do You Supervise Visual Introductions Between Cats?

Supervised visual introductions allow your cats to see each other without direct contact, helping them become accustomed to each other’s presence. This can be achieved through barriers like baby gates or crates.

Baby Gate Introduction:
- Install a Gate: Place a baby gate at the doorway of the kitten’s room, allowing the cats to see each other safely.
- Supervise: Monitor their interactions closely, watching for signs of stress or aggression.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward both cats with treats and praise when they behave calmly around each other.
Crate Introduction:
- Use a Crate: Place the kitten in a secure crate and allow the resident cat to approach and sniff.
- Limited Time: Keep these sessions short, gradually increasing the duration as the cats become more comfortable.
- Monitor Body Language: Watch for relaxed body language, such as slow blinking or relaxed posture.
Controlled Feeding:
- Near the Barrier: Feed the cats their meals on opposite sides of the gate or door.
- Create Positive Association: This helps create a positive association between the other cat’s presence and mealtime.
- Gradual Progression: Gradually move the food bowls closer to the barrier as the cats become more comfortable.
Play Sessions:
- Interactive Play: Use a wand toy to engage both cats in play near the barrier.
- Distraction: This can help distract them from focusing on each other and create positive associations.
Duration and Frequency:
- Short Sessions: Keep initial visual introductions short, around 5-10 minutes.
- Increase Gradually: Gradually increase the duration and frequency of these sessions as the cats show signs of acceptance.

4. What Are The Steps For Controlled Physical Interactions?

Controlled physical interactions involve allowing the cats to interact directly under supervision, starting with brief and structured encounters. This step is crucial for assessing their compatibility and managing potential conflicts.

Short Supervised Visits:
- Brief Encounters: Allow the cats to interact in a neutral space for a few minutes at a time.
- Constant Supervision: Closely supervise these interactions, ready to intervene if necessary.
Neutral Territory:
- Choose a Neutral Area: Select a room that neither cat considers their primary territory.
- Remove Obstacles: Ensure the space is clear of obstacles that could lead to chasing or cornering.
Distraction Techniques:
- Use Toys: Have toys on hand to distract the cats if tension arises.
- Verbal Cues: Use a calm, soothing voice to reassure them.
Positive Reinforcement:
- Treats and Praise: Reward both cats with treats and praise for calm and friendly behavior.
- Associate Positivity: This helps them associate positive experiences with each other’s presence.
Recognizing Body Language:
- Relaxed Posture: Look for relaxed body language, such as slow blinking, relaxed tail, and soft purring.
- Signs of Stress: Watch for signs of stress or aggression, such as hissing, growling, flattened ears, or tense posture.
Intervention Strategies:
- Loud Noise: If a fight breaks out, make a loud noise (like clapping) to startle the cats and interrupt the behavior.
- Physical Separation: If necessary, gently separate the cats, using a barrier like a blanket or pillow.
Gradual Progression:
- Increase Duration: Gradually increase the length of the supervised interactions as the cats become more comfortable.
- Multiple Sessions: Conduct multiple sessions each day to reinforce positive interactions.

5. How To Manage Potential Conflicts Between Cats?

Even with careful introductions, conflicts can arise between cats. Knowing how to manage these situations is essential for maintaining a peaceful multi-cat household.

Identify the Causes:
- Territoriality: Conflicts often stem from territorial disputes.
- Resource Guarding: Cats may compete over food, water, litter boxes, or attention.
- Play Aggression: Sometimes, what appears to be aggression is simply rough play.
Intervention Techniques:
- Distraction: Use a loud noise or a toy to interrupt aggressive behavior.
- Separate Temporarily: If cats are fighting, separate them into different rooms until they calm down.
Environmental Modifications:
- Multiple Resources: Provide multiple food and water bowls, litter boxes, scratching posts, and beds in different locations.
- Vertical Space: Create vertical space with cat trees, shelves, and window perches to allow cats to escape and observe their environment from a safe height.
Mediation Strategies:
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm and friendly behavior with treats and praise.
- Scent Soaking: Continue to swap scents to maintain familiarity and reduce tension.
Professional Help:
- Consult a Veterinarian: If conflicts are frequent or severe, consult a veterinarian or a certified cat behaviorist.
- Medical Issues: Rule out any underlying medical issues that may be contributing to the aggression.
Create a Safe Environment:
- Safe Zones: Ensure each cat has access to a safe zone where they can retreat without being disturbed.
- Reduce Stress: Minimize environmental stressors such as loud noises, changes in routine, or unfamiliar visitors.

6. How To Understand Feline Communication During Introductions?

Understanding feline communication is vital for interpreting their behavior during introductions and addressing potential issues effectively.

Body Language:
- Relaxed: Relaxed cats will have a loose posture, slow blinks, and a gently swaying tail.
- Alert: Alert cats may have their ears forward, pupils dilated, and a tense posture.
- Fearful: Fearful cats may flatten their ears, tuck their tail, and crouch low to the ground.
- Aggressive: Aggressive cats may hiss, growl, arch their back, and have piloerection (raised fur).
Vocalization:
- Purring: Purring usually indicates contentment, but can sometimes be a sign of self-soothing in stressful situations.
- Meowing: Meowing is often used to communicate with humans.
- Hissing: Hissing is a clear warning sign of aggression or fear.
- Growling: Growling is a more intense warning sign than hissing.
Scent Marking:
- Spraying: Spraying is a way for cats to mark their territory with urine.
- Scratching: Scratching is a way for cats to leave visual and scent markers.
- Bunting: Bunting (rubbing their head and body against objects) is a way for cats to deposit pheromones and mark territory.
Facial Expressions:
- Eye Contact: Direct eye contact can be seen as a challenge.
- Slow Blinking: Slow blinking is a sign of trust and relaxation.
Interpreting Interactions:
- Mutual Grooming: Mutual grooming is a sign of bonding and affection.
- Playing: Playful behavior can involve chasing, pouncing, and wrestling.
- Avoidance: If a cat consistently avoids the other, it may indicate discomfort or stress.

7. Why Is It Important To Provide Adequate Resources For Multiple Cats?

Providing adequate resources is essential for maintaining harmony in a multi-cat household. Competition for resources can lead to stress, aggression, and behavioral issues.

Litter Boxes:
- Rule of Thumb: The general rule is to have one litter box per cat, plus one extra.
- Placement: Place litter boxes in different locations, away from food and water.
Food and Water Bowls:
- Separate Bowls: Provide separate food and water bowls for each cat to prevent competition.
- Multiple Locations: Place bowls in different locations to allow cats to eat and drink in peace.
Beds and Resting Spots:
- Multiple Options: Offer multiple beds, blankets, and resting spots in different areas.
- Vertical Space: Include vertical options like cat trees and shelves to provide elevated resting spots.
Scratching Posts:
- Variety: Provide a variety of scratching posts, including vertical and horizontal options.
- Strategic Placement: Place scratching posts in areas where cats like to scratch, such as near sleeping areas or doorways.
Toys:
- Variety: Offer a variety of toys to keep cats entertained and stimulated.
- Rotate Toys: Rotate toys regularly to keep them interesting.
Spacing:
- Spread Out Resources: Space resources out to prevent cats from feeling crowded or threatened.
- Avoid Bottlenecks: Avoid creating bottlenecks where cats have to compete for access to resources.
Observation:
- Monitor Usage: Monitor how each cat uses the resources and adjust as needed.
- Address Issues: Address any signs of competition or resource guarding promptly.

8. How To Maintain A Positive Environment During The Introduction Process?

Maintaining a positive environment during the introduction process is crucial for minimizing stress and promoting harmonious relationships between your cats.

Consistency:
- Stick to a Routine: Maintain a consistent daily routine for feeding, playtime, and rest.
- Predictability: Predictability can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of security.
Patience:
- Allow Time: Understand that the introduction process can take time, and be patient with your cats.
- Avoid Rushing: Avoid rushing the process, as this can lead to increased stress and conflict.
Positive Reinforcement:
- Reward Good Behavior: Reward calm and friendly behavior with treats, praise, and affection.
- Create Positive Associations: Associate positive experiences with each other’s presence.
Reduce Stress:
- Minimize Changes: Minimize changes to the environment during the introduction process.
- Calm Atmosphere: Create a calm and peaceful atmosphere in the home.
Individual Attention:
- Spend Time with Each Cat: Spend individual time with each cat to ensure they feel loved and secure.
- Bonding Activities: Engage in bonding activities such as grooming, playing, and cuddling.
Monitoring:
- Observe Behavior: Observe your cats’ behavior closely for signs of stress or conflict.
- Adjust as Needed: Adjust the introduction process as needed based on their reactions.

9. What Are Some Specific Challenges And How To Deal With Them?

Introducing a new kitten to a resident cat can present unique challenges depending on the cats’ personalities, ages, and past experiences. Here are some common challenges and strategies for addressing them:

Challenge	Description	Solution
Resident Cat is Aggressive	The resident cat displays consistent aggression towards the new kitten, including hissing, growling, and attacking.	Separate the cats completely and restart the introduction process from the beginning. Consult a veterinarian or behaviorist for guidance.
Kitten is Fearful	The kitten is constantly hiding and shows signs of extreme fear, such as trembling, dilated pupils, and flattened ears.	Provide more hiding places in the kitten’s safe room and avoid forcing interactions. Use pheromone diffusers to reduce anxiety. Offer treats and praise to build confidence.
Resource Guarding	One cat guards resources like food, water, or litter boxes, preventing the other cat from accessing them.	Provide multiple resources in separate locations. Consider feeding cats in separate rooms. Use automatic feeders to reduce competition.
Incompatible Personalities	The cats have vastly different energy levels or play styles, leading to constant tension and conflict.	Ensure each cat has opportunities for independent play and enrichment. Provide vertical space for the cats to escape and observe each other. Supervise interactions and intervene when necessary.
Medical Issues	Underlying medical conditions can contribute to aggression or stress in cats.	Schedule a veterinary exam for both cats to rule out any medical issues. Address any health problems promptly.
Introduction Plateau	The introduction process seems to stall, with no improvement in the cats’ relationship despite consistent efforts.	Consult a veterinarian or behaviorist for additional strategies. Consider trying new techniques like scent swapping or interactive play.

10. When Should You Seek Professional Guidance From A Veterinarian or Behaviorist?

Knowing when to seek professional guidance from a veterinarian or behaviorist can be crucial for resolving complex issues and ensuring the well-being of your cats.

Persistent Aggression:
- Frequency: If aggressive behavior persists despite your efforts to manage it.
- Severity: If the aggression is severe, leading to injuries or significant stress.
Extreme Fear or Anxiety:
- Hiding: If a cat is constantly hiding and shows signs of extreme fear or anxiety.
- Refusal to Eat: If a cat refuses to eat or drink due to stress.
Unexplained Behavioral Changes:
- Sudden Changes: If you notice sudden and unexplained changes in your cat’s behavior.
- Inappropriate Elimination: If a cat starts urinating or defecating outside the litter box.
Resource Guarding:
- Intense Competition: If resource guarding is intense and leads to conflict.
- Preventing Access: If one cat is preventing the other from accessing essential resources.
Medical Concerns:
- Underlying Issues: If you suspect that a medical issue may be contributing to the behavioral problems.
- Veterinary Exam: A veterinarian can rule out any underlying health problems.
Lack of Progress:
- Stalled Introductions: If the introduction process has stalled despite your efforts.
- Need for Expertise: A behaviorist can provide expert guidance and tailored strategies.

11. What Are The Benefits Of A Multi-Cat Household If Introductions Are Successful?

Successfully introducing a new kitten into your household can bring numerous benefits to both you and your feline companions.

Companionship for Cats:
- Social Interaction: Cats can benefit from the social interaction and companionship of other cats.
- Reduced Loneliness: A feline companion can help reduce loneliness and boredom, especially when you’re not home.
Enrichment and Stimulation:
- Play and Exercise: Cats can engage in play and exercise together, providing mental and physical stimulation.
- Reduced Boredom: This can help reduce boredom and prevent destructive behaviors.
Improved Well-Being:
- Reduced Stress: A harmonious multi-cat household can reduce stress and anxiety for all cats.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Cats can enjoy a higher quality of life with a feline companion.
Entertainment for Owners:
- Observing Interactions: Watching cats interact, play, and groom each other can be highly entertaining.
- Joy and Affection: The bond between cats can bring joy and affection to your home.
Behavioral Benefits:
- Social Skills: Cats can learn social skills from each other, such as grooming and communication.
- Reduced Aggression: A well-managed multi-cat household can reduce aggression and conflict.
Emotional Support:
- Comfort and Security: Cats can provide comfort and security to each other, especially during stressful situations.
- Bonding: The bond between cats can create a sense of family and belonging.

12. What Are Some Common Mistakes To Avoid When Introducing Cats?

Avoiding common mistakes during the introduction process can significantly increase the chances of a successful and harmonious multi-cat household.

Rushing the Introduction:
- Allow Sufficient Time: Rushing the introduction process can lead to stress and conflict.
- Follow the Cat’s Pace: Allow your cats to adjust at their own pace.
Forcing Interactions:
- Avoid Forced Encounters: Forcing cats to interact before they are ready can create negative associations.
- Respect Boundaries: Respect their boundaries and allow them to approach each other on their own terms.
Neglecting Scent Introduction:
- Scent Swapping: Neglecting scent introduction can hinder the familiarization process.
- Use Scents: Utilize scent swapping and pheromone diffusers to create a sense of familiarity.
Insufficient Resources:
- Provide Adequate Resources: Insufficient resources can lead to competition and stress.
- Multiple Options: Provide multiple litter boxes, food and water bowls, beds, and scratching posts.
Ignoring Body Language:
- Pay Attention: Ignoring body language can lead to missed warning signs of stress or aggression.
- Intervene Promptly: Pay attention to your cats’ body language and intervene promptly if necessary.
Lack of Supervision:
- Always Supervise: Lack of supervision during initial interactions can result in escalated conflicts.
- Monitor Closely: Always supervise interactions and be prepared to intervene.
Inconsistent Routine:
- Maintain Consistency: Inconsistent routines can create anxiety and stress.
- Stick to Schedule: Stick to a consistent daily routine for feeding, playtime, and rest.
Ignoring Medical Issues:
- Rule Out Medical Issues: Ignoring potential medical issues can exacerbate behavioral problems.
- Veterinary Exam: Schedule a veterinary exam to rule out any underlying health problems.

13. Can You Share Some Success Stories and Testimonials?

Hearing success stories and testimonials can provide encouragement and valuable insights into the process of introducing cats.

Sarah and Her Cats, Leo and Luna:
- Challenge: Sarah had a senior cat, Leo, and decided to adopt a young kitten, Luna. Leo was initially very resistant and would hiss and growl at Luna.
- Solution: Sarah followed a slow introduction process, starting with scent swapping and supervised visual introductions. She also provided multiple resources to prevent competition.
- Outcome: After several weeks, Leo and Luna started to tolerate each other and eventually became close companions. They now groom each other and sleep together.
- Testimonial: “I was so worried that Leo would never accept Luna, but with patience and consistency, they are now best friends. It was definitely worth the effort”
Mark and His Cats, Whiskers and Patches:
- Challenge: Mark had two adult cats, Whiskers and Patches, who had a history of conflict. He wanted to introduce a new kitten, Oliver, but was concerned about their reaction.
- Solution: Mark created a separate space for Oliver and focused on scent introduction. He also used Feliway diffusers to reduce anxiety.
- Outcome: Whiskers and Patches were initially cautious but gradually accepted Oliver. They now play together and coexist peacefully.
- Testimonial: “The Feliway diffusers made a huge difference. The cats seemed much calmer and more receptive to the new kitten. It took time, but they eventually formed a harmonious bond”
Emily and Her Cats, Shadow and Mittens:
- Challenge: Emily had a very territorial cat, Shadow, who was aggressive towards any new animals. She wanted to adopt a kitten, Mittens, but was unsure how to proceed.
- Solution: Emily consulted a cat behaviorist who recommended a structured introduction process and environmental modifications.
- Outcome: Shadow and Mittens eventually learned to coexist, although they never became close friends. They were able to share the same space without conflict.
- Testimonial: “The behaviorist’s advice was invaluable. I learned how to manage Shadow’s territorial behavior and create a safe environment for both cats. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it”

14. What Are Some Advanced Techniques For Harmonious Living?

Once the initial introduction phase is complete, there are advanced techniques that can help maintain a harmonious multi-cat household in the long term.

Clicker Training:
- Positive Reinforcement: Use clicker training to reinforce positive behaviors and create positive associations.
- Reward Calmness: Reward cats for calm and friendly interactions.
Enrichment Activities:
- Interactive Toys: Provide interactive toys and puzzle feeders to keep cats mentally stimulated.
- Environmental Enrichment: Create an enriching environment with cat trees, shelves, and window perches.
Scent Enrichment:
- Catnip: Use catnip to provide enrichment and promote playfulness.
- Scented Toys: Offer toys scented with catnip or other enticing scents.
Routine Health Checks:
- Regular Vet Visits: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to ensure your cats are healthy.
- Address Issues Promptly: Address any health issues promptly to prevent behavioral problems.
Stress Reduction:
- Minimize Stressors: Minimize environmental stressors such as loud noises, changes in routine, and unfamiliar visitors.
- Create a Calming Environment: Create a calming environment with soft music, pheromone diffusers, and comfortable resting spots.
Consistent Monitoring:
- Observe Behavior: Continue to observe your cats’ behavior for signs of stress or conflict.
- Adjust as Needed: Adjust your management strategies as needed based on their reactions.

15. How To Maintain Long-Term Harmony In Your Multi-Cat Household?

Maintaining long-term harmony in your multi-cat household requires ongoing effort and attention. By consistently implementing the following strategies, you can ensure a peaceful and happy environment for your feline companions.

Consistent Routines:
- Daily Schedules: Stick to consistent daily schedules for feeding, playtime, and rest.
- Predictable Environment: A predictable environment can help reduce anxiety and stress.
Resource Management:
- Regularly Assess Resources: Regularly assess the availability and placement of resources to ensure they are adequate.
- Adjust as Needed: Adjust the number and location of resources as needed based on your cats’ behavior.
Individual Attention:
- Spend Quality Time: Continue to spend quality time with each cat individually.
- Maintain Bonds: Maintain strong bonds with each cat through grooming, playing, and cuddling.
Health Monitoring:
- Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to ensure your cats remain healthy.
- Address Issues Early: Address any health issues promptly to prevent them from escalating.
Environmental Enrichment:
- Rotate Toys: Rotate toys regularly to keep them interesting and engaging.
- Introduce New Activities: Introduce new enrichment activities to keep your cats mentally stimulated.
Conflict Resolution:
- Intervene Early: Intervene early at the first signs of conflict to prevent escalation.
- Address Root Causes: Address the root causes of conflict, such as resource guarding or territoriality.
Continued Learning:
- Stay Informed: Stay informed about cat behavior and management techniques.
- Consult Experts: Consult with veterinarians or behaviorists as needed to address any ongoing challenges.

16. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long should I keep the new kitten separated from my resident cat?
A: Keep the new kitten separated for at least a few days to a week, allowing them to acclimate to the new environment and each other’s scents gradually. The duration can vary depending on the cats’ individual personalities and reactions.

Q: What are the signs that the introduction process is going well?
A: Signs of a successful introduction include relaxed body language, mutual grooming, playing, and the cats spending time near each other without conflict.

Q: What should I do if my cats start fighting?
A: If your cats start fighting, make a loud noise to startle them and interrupt the behavior. If necessary, separate them temporarily and restart the introduction process from an earlier stage.

Q: Can I use Feliway to help with the introduction process?
A: Yes, Feliway diffusers can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm in cats. Place them in areas where the cats spend the most time.

Q: How many litter boxes should I have for two cats?
A: The general rule is to have one litter box per cat, plus one extra. For two cats, you should have three litter boxes.

Q: Should I feed my cats together or separately?
A: It’s best to feed your cats separately to prevent competition and resource guarding. Provide separate food bowls in different locations.

Q: How can I tell if my cat is stressed?
A: Signs of stress in cats include hiding, flattened ears, tense posture, hissing, growling, and changes in appetite or litter box habits.

Q: What if my resident cat is much older than the new kitten?
A: Introduce them slowly and gently, respecting the older cat’s need for rest and space. Provide plenty of comfortable resting spots and avoid forcing interactions.

Q: Is it normal for cats to hiss at each other during introductions?
A: Hissing is a common warning sign during introductions, but it should decrease as the cats become more comfortable with each other. If hissing persists, consult a veterinarian or behaviorist.

Q: How do I know if my cats will ever get along?
A: While not all cats will become best friends, most cats can learn to coexist peacefully with proper introductions and management. Patience and consistency are key to success.

For more expert tips and resources on introducing a new kitten to your cat, visit solcat.net. Our comprehensive guides, articles, and community forums are designed to help you create a harmonious and happy home for all your feline companions. If you’re in Seattle, feel free to reach out to us at 950 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98104, United States, or call us at +1 (206) 386-4000. We are here to support you every step of the way!

Alt text: Two domestic shorthair cats, one grey and one tabby, peacefully cuddling together on a cozy couch, exemplifying a harmonious multi-cat household.