If you are a cat owner with two cats in your household, you might often find both of them coming over to seek your attention at the same time. In such moments, which cat should you care for first? Below is some helpful advice for multi-cat owners on how to handle this situation correctly.
Fairness is Key for Multi-Cat Owners
Multi-cat owners should embrace the concept of "fair treatment". Neglecting any one cat can cause emotional harm, as every cat needs to feel loved and valued. Ensuring that each cat senses they are equally loved can reduce jealousy and rivalry among them, fostering harmony within your feline family.
Special Consideration When Introducing a New Cat
If you have recently added a second cat to your home, it's important to monitor the original cat's emotional state. For the original cat, you were once the sole focus of affection, so the arrival of a new member can be unsettling. This may cause the original cat to cling more tightly to you, using affectionate behaviors to seek reassurance of your love.
In this scenario, prioritize comforting the original cat to alleviate its stress. This will also make it easier for the new cat to be accepted. However, if you only give attention to the original cat, the new cat may feel jealous.
Rotate Your Attention
The ideal approach is to alternate your attention between both cats. For example, when the new cat is resting, spend time interacting with the original cat in another room, and then switch to bonding with the new cat next. This way, both cats feel fairly treated and valued.
Encourage Mutual Bonds Between Your Cats
It is equally important to help your cats build a positive relationship with each other. This not only fosters their independence and reduces over-dependence on you but also teaches them that besides you, there is another companion in the house. Having a feline friend to keep each other company can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness for both cats.
