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From: scott@hou2g.UUCP (The Brennan Monster)
Newsgroups: net.pets
Subject: Re: Introducing cats!
Message-ID: <734@hou2g.UUCP>
Date: Wed, 18-Dec-85 08:41:31 EST
Article-I.D.: hou2g.734
Posted: Wed Dec 18 08:41:31 1985
Date-Received: Thu, 19-Dec-85 05:07:25 EST
References: <589@ihu1e.UUCP>
Organization: The Sol Cometary Halo
Lines: 25

This is my prescription for introductions, although it's probably
too late for yours...

Confine the new cat to one portion (room?)  of the house,
letting the other(s) occupy the rest.  Provide each with
a litter box, of course.  Then after a day or two, SWITCH
them.  This lets them each get used to the smell of the
other, without being directly threatened.  Then let them
"meet" each other.  During dinner is best.  Mortal enemies will
often be quite civil while eating side by side.

Also, especially with a new kitten, don't pay too much attention
to the newcomer, at least in the presence of the "residents".
Let your old cat(s) introduce the newcomer to YOU.

And remember, what often looks like a fight is usually just play.
Especially if the one who seems to be "losing" keeps coming back
for more.  This means either he's incredibly stupid or isn't in pain.
My system is that if one of them makes a loud noise or cry (other 
than hissing) this indicates pain, and they should be separated.  
Otherwise, let 'em at it!

			Scott J. Berry
			ihnp4!hou2g!scott