How To Introduce Two Kittens From Different Litters

Introducing kittens from different litters is usually a quick transition to make, as kittens will adapt easier because of their young age. Dealing with two adult cats is a lot harder because of the strong sense of territory or raging hormones. Kittens are normally content with making new friends, so taking it slow and letting them feel each other out over the first few weeks is important.

Step 1
It’s best to separate the kittens while they’re still becoming aware of each other. One way to safely do this is to keep them in separate rooms between closed doors. They’ll be able to sense the smell and hear each other. The kittens will probably spend some time sniffing around the door and sticking their paws underneath here and there. While an adult cat would need this to go on for days, young kittens are much more receptive to introductions, and you can open up the door after a few hours of them being separated.

Step 2
You should supervise the two kittens are a while as they feel each other out. While kittens aren’t as inherently aggressive toward newcomers as compared to adult cats, the young kittens may still huff and puff a little before they start letting their guards down. If either of the kittens starts to hiss a little or arch their backs, then let them. Remember, that kittens are playful. So, if they wrestle for a while, then that’s fine, however, if they start fighting for real, then it’s time to split them up for a few hours.

Step 3
It’s recommended to give each kitten their own separate spaces within the same room so that they can learn to coexist without needing to encroach on one another’s space. For example, make sure to give them their own separate food and water dishes on the opposite sides of the room. You should provide them with their own separate but identical beds and litter boxes, and make sure that their main room has enough toys and play areas for both kittens.

Step 4
Always give enough attention to each kitten. This needs to be done so that they don’t feel threatened by each other. Take time to play and snuggle with each kitten separately, so that they don’t need to resort to competing for your affection.

Step 5
Watch over them while the two kittens are interacting. Unlike adult cats, kittens may only need a day or so to get used to each other, so don’t worry about limiting their playtime.

As the old saying goes, two is better than one. This is also true when it comes to kittens. Introducing kittens early and slowly, from two separate litters, can form a special bond that will last a lifetime.

Age
Kittens that are around the same age tend to get along better compared to cats with a bigger age difference. Ideally, getting kittens that were born within a week of each other is usually perfect. Also, the younger the two kittens are from different litters are when they are introduced, the more accepting they’ll be of each other. Although this doesn’t necessarily mean that kittens with a bigger age difference won’t get along, however it may take a little longer for kittens with a bigger age gap to get used to each other, so more patience and time would be needed.

Sex
As long as the two kittens are introduced when young, the sex of the kittens doesn’t really matter. Any combination, whether it’s two females, two males or a male and female they should get along just fine. However, keep in mind that your kittens will need to be spayed and neutered if you’re getting a male and female or you’ll just end up with an unwanted litter in the future. Once the kittens reach adulthood, two female cats are likely to bond more closely with each other than with their human owners, while two male cats tend to act as buddies and in mixed pairs, the female is usually dominant.

When There’s Friction
If your new kittens start fighting and need to be separated, throw a blanket over the both of them, spray them with some water or use a broom to gently separate them apart. Don’t reach in with your hands. Just because your kittens are small doesn’t mean that they won’t do you any serious damage, as their little teeth and claws are very sharp.

Try setting aside enough time to socialize and play with each kitten equally.
Slow and steady should be your mantra until your two kittens are occupying the same space, without giving any problems.

You’ll know if the transition has been a success when both kittens are sharing a common eating space or perch, and exhibiting relaxed behaviors while in each other’s presence, such as purring or kneading.