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How to help stressed cats adjust to a new home and stop fighting?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My cats were just rehoused to me from my dad who was neglecting them. They are very unsure of their surroundings and they keep growling and hissing. They got along fine before but now they are attacking each other. We also have a dog and im worried our male cat will attack her. Do you have any advice on how to get them to feel more comfortable and less aggressive? Also how do i get the two cats to stop fighting?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Rebecca, DVM

Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 4th, 2017

Moving can be very stressful on any species. Cats will sometimes display signs of mis-directed aggression when they are stressed. I would recommend getting Feliway pheromones started asap. These come as plug in diffusers or even collars if the cats will tolerate them. They release calming hormones into the air that people won't smell, but do help relax agitate pets. Give the cats a safe place to retreat to - a room or hideout where they can get away from each other, the dog and people. If possible try to have items from their last home there (a bed or toys). Try to feed the same food, switching it over gradually. I would recommend having several litter boxes in different areas of the house while they are acclimating. If the fights are serious enough you may need to separate the cats into separate areas of the house and gradually reintroduce them to each other.
If the behaviours continue or worsen, I would recommend consulting with their veterinarian. There are medications that can help in conjunction with training to decrease behavior problems.
The following website has some great information about cat behavior by one of best behavior veterinarians there ever was. You may want to search for articles on aggression and anxiety in cats for some more ideas. https://drsophiayin.com/resources/cat_behavior/
Vote Icon4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on September 7th, 2017

    Getting a new cat is kind of like getting a new college roommate. Sometimes you are best friends for life and sometimes you can't wait to move out!

    You will need to give them some time to adjust and get to know each other. Make sure that they each have space to retreat to and feel safe. You will also need at least 2, recommended 3 litter boxes throughout the house. Same with food bowls, they shouldn't be expected to safely share a food bowl.

    Make sure they are both still getting attention from you, too! Sometimes supplements like Zylkene or Comfort Zone/Feliway can help with this type of stress.

    Here is an article that may help:
    https://www.petcoach.co/article/5-steps-to-introducing-your-cat-to-a-new-feline/

    Environmental Enrichment:
    https://indoorpet.osu.edu//cats

    Litter Box Care:
    http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=3638

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Unfortunately the new cat is likely causing stress and this is a common feeling reaction to stress. She may not want to go outside as long as that other cat is around. It may be difficult to keep the other cat out of your area unless you want to purchase or build a fence. There are fences available that have curvature to the top that make it difficult for a cat to climb over. There are some things you can do at home that can help to manage her stress. Set aside 30 minutes a day for a vigorous play. Use a pheromone diffuser. There is a special prescription food made by Royal Canin called calm which may help. Use food puzzles. Give environmental enrichment. Lastly, your veterinarian has medications which can help as well. Many cats require a combination of therapies. Best of luck.
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