Cats have different personalities and temperaments. More than with other pets, it is difficult to predict the behaviour of cats, especially their behaviour towards other cats.
Although you can never say for sure whether a cat is ready to get used to a new cat in its domain, there are ways to bring two new cats closer together. However, some cats feel they are the sole rulers and will always have the leadership role and be too aggressive towards a perceived intruder.
A cat's breed influences its tendency towards aggressive behaviour or tolerance towards housemates. Siamese and Burmese cats, for example, tend to be aggressive and often make it difficult to introduce a new cat into the household. Manx cats or Ragdolls, on the other hand, are often more approachable and tolerant of other pets.
The first meeting between the cats is crucial for a peaceful coexistence. It is beneficial if the new cat is given the opportunity to orientate itself in its new home and to perceive the smells of the environment and the other cat.
Both the new cat and the old cat need time. There is no point in plunging them into a life together straight away. This applies to feeding, sleeping space and litter tray. The old cat must first learn to share its home, while the new cat in turn must find its place in society.
Domesticated cats are rarely truly sociable. Cats are loners. Nevertheless, there are cases where cats that have not grown up together form a strong bond with each other. But this can be predicted or enforced, just as with humans.
