It’s totally normal for your cat to hiss when you bring home a new kitten. Cats are territorial, and it often takes time to adjust to a new roommate.
Let’s dive into how you can help your cats warm up to each other and live in harmony, including expert tips from Dr. Stephanie Liff, Lemonade’s favorite vet.
Why do cats hiss?
Hissing is a natural feline behavior, and it’s often a way for cats to communicate their feelings. Here are some common reasons that cats hiss:
- Establishing boundaries: Cats may hiss to tell another animal—or even a human—to back off. This is especially common if the other party is getting too close or being overly assertive.
- Fear or stress: Hissing is a defensive behavior. A cat that feels cornered, threatened, or startled may hiss as a warning to stay away.
- Pain or illness: A cat that’s injured or unwell may hiss if you touch a sensitive area. If your cat’s hissing is sudden or out of character, it’s worth checking in with your vet.
- Territorial instincts: Cats are naturally territorial, and they might hiss when another cat enters what they consider their space.
- Social discomfort: Cats might hiss during introductions to new animals or people—especially if those interactions feel rushed or invasive.
Hissing is a form of communication—it might sound threatening to us, but for cats, it’s often just a way to say, ‘I need space.
Dr. Stephanie Liff
Why is my older cat hissing at my new kitten?
When introducing a new kitten to your home, it’s important to remember that your older cat may need time to adjust. Here are some specific reasons why your older cat might be hissing at the new kitten:
Lack of familiarity
Cats are creatures of habit, and a sudden change—like a new kitten—can be unsettling. Your resident cat may hiss as they get used to the new kitten’s scent and presence.
Overstimulation
Kittens are full of energy and can sometimes overwhelm an older cat, leading to hissing or swatting.
Protective instincts
While mother cats may hiss at their own kittens to discipline them, an older, unrelated cat might hiss to establish their dominance.
Resource guarding
If your older cat feels like their food, water bowls, litter box, or favorite spots are being “invaded,” they may hiss to protect what they see as theirs.
Understanding your cat’s perspective can help you create an environment where both cats feel safe and secure.
How to introduce a new kitten to an older cat
Introducing a new kitten to an older cat takes patience and a thoughtful approach. Start with a gradual introduction by keeping the kitten in a separate room for a few days. Swap their bedding or use a cloth to transfer scents, helping each cat get used to the other without direct contact. This step builds familiarity and helps ease territorial instincts.
Start by swapping their scents, then let them see each other—without touching. Once they both seem calm and curious, you can slowly move toward supervised interactions. The key is to take it one step at a time
Dr. Stephanie Liff
Next, allow them to see each other through a barrier like a baby gate or a cracked door. Watch their body language—relaxed postures and gentle sniffing are good signs, while hissing or tension means they may need more time. When both seem comfortable, begin short, supervised interactions and slowly increase their time together. Reward calm behavior with treats or praise to reinforce positive experiences.
Make sure each cat has their own space, including hiding spots, elevated areas, and separate food bowls and litter boxes. Giving both cats room to feel safe and in control can go a long way in encouraging a peaceful relationship.
When it comes to this kind of introduction, the adjustment phase can take “up to three months,” according to Dr. Liff. Every cat is different—some warm up right away, while others take more time. The key is to be patient, go at their pace, and create a calm, supportive environment during the transition.
What should I do if my cat keeps hissing at my kitten?
If your older cat continues to hiss at your new kitten despite your efforts, don’t worry—this doesn’t mean they’ll never get along. Here are some additional tips to help:
- Use pheromone diffusers: Products like Feliway can release calming pheromones to reduce tension between your cats.
- Stick to a routine: Maintaining your older cat’s regular schedule for feeding, playtime, and cuddles can help them feel secure.
- Practice positive reinforcement: Reward your older cat with treats or playtime when they behave calmly around the new kitten. This helps them associate the new kitten with positive experiences.
- Consult a behaviorist: If the tension persists, a professional behaviorist can provide tailored advice to improve the relationship between your cats.
According to Dr. Liff, not all cats are going to become best friends—and that’s okay.
If the hissing doesn’t progress to violence, then I don’t think there’s an issue. It’s a form of communication. It’s undesirable to humans, but you shouldn’t interrupt animal communication unless it becomes dangerous.
Dr. Stephanie Liff
Before we go…
Introducing a new kitten to an older cat can be challenging, but with patience and the right approach, most cats can learn to coexist peacefully—and sometimes even become best friends! Remember to take things slow, provide plenty of resources, and use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.
And don’t forget—while you’re making sure your cats adjust to each other, it’s also important to protect their health. Lemonade pet insurance can help cover unexpected vet visits and ensure your furry friends get the care they need.
FAQs
How long does it take for a cat to adjust to a new kitten?
It depends on the cat—some may warm up in just a few days, while others could take several weeks. According to Dr. Liff, the adjustment phase can take “up to three months,” so don’t worry if things don’t click right away. Go slow, be patient, and let your cats move at their own pace.
Should I punish my cat for hissing at the new kitten?
No, hissing is a natural behavior. Instead of punishing your cat, give them space and work on gradual introductions.
Can pheromone diffusers help reduce hissing?
Yes, products like Feliway can create a calming environment and help reduce tension between cats.
What should I do if my cat becomes aggressive toward the kitten?
If aggressive behavior persists, consult a veterinarian or behaviorist for guidance. Adjusting the introduction process may also help.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
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