So you’ve got a new kitty! And she’s been in a separate room from the other felines, settling in. Everyone is eating normally, there is no more angst at the barrier.

Now we add some fun and interaction.

Start moving new cat’s food closer to the door, and either feed or give treats to the established residents on the other side of the door. That way, they are doing something pleasurable while they are able to smell and hear the ‘other’ nearby. It’s like when I drink a glass of wine near my least favorite relatives. I know I’m stuck, but at least I’m doing something I like so it doesn’t seem so bad.

You can also set up a game with a string-type toy, under the door. Cat on one side playing with cat on the other side. They can’t see one another, but they are having a positive interaction and no one can get hurt!

You can also do the cloth trick — use a towel or cloth that new kitty has been touching, and bring it into the larger household. Do the same with a cloth that you’ve wiped on resident kitty. That way they can get used to the scent of the others. Adding food or play with this can help to relax them.

Next, time to try a quick glance through a crack in the door.

At any stage, if someone hisses or seems stressed, then stop the interaction and go back to the last step where everyone was comfortable and relaxed. You can do it.