Introduced cats too fast, now what?

[Jesse]

My boyfriend and I just moved into a new place... he has 2 cats, I have 1. We did separate them at first but I think we prematurely let them mingle. There was a lot of hissing and growling. Should we go back to separating them, then gradually introduce them again? Or is it too late? What can we do now?

Any helpful advice would be appreciated. Please, only serious responses. Thank you!

 

[Rachel H.]

1. Separate the cats.
2. Introduce them slowly, a different cat each day. Do not overwhelm them.
3. Male sure it is in a room that is not one cats 'territory'
4. Spray with a spray bottle if they fight.
5. Repeat 1-4 until they do not fight.

 

[Judith F]

Hissing and growling is fine, and not too bad at all for a first introduction. Only intervene if there is actual fighting. Remember cats don't invest as much emotion or memory in vocal communication as we do, it's not like they're going to hold grudges cos they were mean to each other when the first met, the way a human might. They're just expressing 'What? I don't know you! Why are you in my place?' I introduced my cat and kitten with minimal separation time (knowing my cat is very good tempered and would not endager a kitten). The kitten hissed and growled for a couple of days, but within a week they were buds. Now they are inseparable. Oh one thing - if the cats aren't all spayed and neutered, get them done, or there will indeed be fighting at heat time.

 

[Chelsea FC]

Hissing a growling is normal (annoying but normal)
This is how they work out their territory dominance issues.
If they get too rough squirt them with a spray bottle while making a sst sound (after a while you'll only need the sound), but otherwise let them work it out for themselves.