tips on helping senior and kitten bonding
Let’s face it, every cat owner hopes that their cats will be the best of friends — especially a senior cat and a younger cat. Here are a few tips on how to help the bonding process.
Take it Slow
Like any bonding process, it’s important to take it slow and watch closely for your cat’s cues. Be mindful of body language and verbal cues, such as hissing and growling. Ensure each cat has a safe space they can retreat to during the getting-to-know-you phase.
Sharing Snacks
It’s a tale as old as time — the way to the heart is through the stomach. Feeding both cats at the same time, especially giving them treats at the same time in the same room, can help reinforce a positive experience.
Energy Mismatch
A challenge you may face is a high-energy kitten and a senior cat who simply prefers to snooze. Engaging in one-on-one play with the higher-energy cat may calm them down enough to not overstimulate the lower-energy cat.
Family Time
Spending time together as a family can also help the bonding process. Simply spending time together in the same room with both cats doing every day things will allow the cats to get more comfortable with each other.
Don’t Force It
Bonding can take time, and ultimately some cats simply coexist and never become best friends as we hope. Talk to your veterinarian team to determine behaviours that are normal or that may be concerning.
Alumni Featured: Baby and Fella
When a senior in Ottawa wasn’t able to care for his beloved cats, he found a second forever home for them through MGC.
