Foster Cats Fighting

[Chama]

I feel like I have so many questions lately! I have two adult foster cats right now and I am having a hard time introducing them. They were originally separated and now I have been allowing the one (who is a mom to 2 week old kittens) to roam around. I haven't been having any problems thus far but last night and today they have gotten into rumbles. Its hard to tell but my existing cat seems to be initiating it and I know it's from fear as afterwards she hides and growls - even after I've put the new mom back in the room with her babies. My existing cat hasn't gone anywhere near the babies so I don't think that is the problem. They make quite the racket and frankly I don't want my existing cat to be worried all the time. The mom couldn't seem to care less. Does anyone have any suggestions on how they can get to know each other or should I just be letting them try and establish things on their own?

[Love4himies]

I would not allow them to work things out on their own, but would keep them separated for a few days, then try slow, controlled intros. If the momma needs a break from her kittens, I would lock up the other kitty who is initiating the fights. Feeding treats on either side of a closed door is a great way for kitties to get used to each other and associate their smells with positive feelings.


I am a little confused, do you have three adult cats (two fosters and one resident) or two?

[14+kitties]

Ask away. It never hurts to get lots of info.
I would think Momma is defending her babies. It doesn't matter if she is not in the same room as the babies. She knows they are close. If it is your other foster (whom I assume has been there longer?) that is initiating things then keep them separated until the babies are at least six or seven weeks old. She knows something has changed and is reacting to it. Then do a slow re-intro with them. Treating it as though this is the first time they have met.
Once you decide to let them meet again this is a great site to check out.
http://www.squidoo.com/multi-cat-management
This lady has done a ton of introducing cats to each other.

If possible during reintros can you put a screen door or something on the doorway of the room mom is in with her babies? Something that will keep them both safe but they can see each other? In some cases this seems to help a lot.

I am sure you will get more help. Everyone has different ideas on how to introduce kitties. Somewhere in all of the help is the one that will work for your situation. Good luck!