Scent as a Tool for Introducing Cats
We have created a short video on YouTube for today's blog.
You can find it HERE.
Scent can be an effective method for helping new cats get used to each other. Cats are highly sensitive to smells and use their sense of smell to understand their surroundings and identify other cats. Since there are several weeks between a kitten’s birth and the time it is ready to go to a new home, there are many opportunities to introduce scents in a gentle way.
We have provided two blankets to the breeder, which we receive back at intervals of a few weeks. These can be used multiple times – we simply store them in a sealed bag when not in use.
When introducing the scent, we place the blanket in front of one cat at a time, allowing them to sniff in peace without being disturbed. They usually sniff for a few minutes before either settling nearby or walking away. At that point, we pack the blanket away and bring it out again later.
The cats find this process fascinating and take their time. To create a positive association, we place some treats on the blanket while they sniff. This helps them connect the new scent with something enjoyable.
It’s important to introduce the scented blanket in a calm environment, free from loud noises or stressful situations. If a cat gets scared while sniffing, it may develop a negative association with the new scent. Kasper, who loves catnip, had a little catnip sprinkled on the blanket. He was absolutely thrilled and rubbed against it in all directions.
Using these weeks for scent introduction before the new cat arrives gives the resident cat a good heads-up that another cat is trying to enter its territory. Kittens are generally easier to introduce than adult cats.
Patience is key—every cat is unique, and some take longer than others to become comfortable with a new companion.
The advantage of this method is that the new cat is not yet in the house, so there’s no temptation to introduce them too soon. Most problems arise because we rush the process or fail to prepare properly.
Little brother Odin also took part in the scent session. He sniffed the blanket just as curiously as the cats—before grabbing it and running off in all directions. Perhaps hoping the cats would join the game and chase after him to catch the blanket.
They did not!
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