How reintroduce cats to each other?

Question

We use to have two cats. Brother and sister. The boy cat was causing some problems in our house and we ended up sending him to back to my sister and her friends house. He has since been fixed and calmed down a lot.

My husband and I have been talking about bringing him back home. Now things have gone very bad with my sister and her friend. One of them beginning that her friend has brought in more cats (there are now 17 cats). My sister is moving out for her kids safety. After she moves out she is contacting animal control on her friend.

So my husband and I have decided that the cat we sent back is coming back home (the moment I heard there were 17 cats in that house I was ready to snatch him back).

We tried to bring another cat into the house earlier this year and our cat didn't react to well to that. I'm nervous about how she's going to react with her brother suddenly coming back (he'll be here in the next few days).

Should I treat this like a new cat coming into the house?

She's not very good with strangers. We've also been debating her future in this family for a few months now. I'm pregnant and we're worried how she's going to react to the baby when he's born.

I know the boy cat won't have an issue with the baby (as I said before my sister has kids one being a 6 month old).

Thank you to all those who read and answer.

Missy

Oldest son Dylan (4), 21 weeks 4 days with Daniel

Answer 1

Well, for starters. You can take the male cat back into your home. Just keep them separate for a few days. There will be hissing, slapping and a little rumbling between the 2 cats. That's normal tho and will subside eventually. I wouldn't leave them alone tho when you go somewhere. I'd definitely put one in another room so no one will get hurt. Get a water pistol and fill it with water. If you see them acting up, squirt both of the cats in the face. Cat's can't stand water in their faces and will get the message real soon.

As far as your infant goes. Just try to keep the 2 cats out of the room your baby will be in. I wouldn't let the cats around the newborn right away either. Just to be on the safe side that would be the best thing to do. I don't really think the cats will harm your new baby in any way. But, just keep an eye on the cats and the newborn at all times.

I hope this helps!

Answer 2

Hi

Wow! I can see why you are having all these concerns...I'd bring him home, but keep him in a pet carrier for an hour or two. Let them smell and look at each other. If there's no hissing or growling, let him out. If they get along wouldn't that be the neatest thing!   As always one has to watch cats around babies, but you just never know how they will act until you give it a try.  You may be surprised and they get along fine. Or she might be a total terror. Then you'll have to decide what to do with her from that point if she's really bad. I hope she's good!

Katie