Bringing Home a New Kitten in Charleston? Here’s How to Keep the Peace with Your Dog or Cat

Kimberly Layman
Jul 26
3 min read

Updated: Nov 14

Set Your Pets Up for Success with a Calm, Confident Introduction

Adding a kitten to your home? Get ready for big energy, adorable chaos, and a few adjustment moments along the way.

Whether you're welcoming your very first feline or expanding your existing feline family, introductions matter. A calm, thoughtful approach sets the tone for trust and long-term harmony between your new kitten and your resident pet(s).

Here’s how to help your pets start strong and avoid unnecessary stress.

Start Slow (Even If Everyone Seems Curious)

Your dog might be wagging. Your cat might be sniffing under the door. Still, don’t rush it. Even the friendliest pets can feel overwhelmed if pushed too fast.

Swap scents first: Before any face-to-face interaction, rub each pet with the same towel or exchange bedding so they get familiar with each other's scent.
Set up a kitten-safe room: Use a closed-off area with food, water, litter box, toys, and a cozy place to hide. Let your kitten decompress for a few days before introductions.
Use secure barriers: A baby gate or screen door allows pets to see and smell each other without physical contact.

Keep Energy Levels in Check

Kittens operate at full speed. Between pouncing, climbing, and sneak attacks, they can be a lot for older pets to handle.

Add enrichment toys: Solo-play options like treat puzzles or tunnels help your kitten stay stimulated when you’re busy.
Give your resident pet space: Make sure your cat or dog has quiet, kitten-free zones they can access anytime.
Play it out: Schedule multiple short play sessions each day to burn off kitten energy. If you’re juggling work and kitten care, our Happy Paws Cat Care can be the perfect support. Schedule one of our cat care specialists to come by while you're at work to keep your new kitten engaged and stimulated.

Pay Attention to Body Language (Not Just Behavior)

Hissing, growling, stiff posture — these aren’t bad signs, they’re communication. And they’re perfectly normal.

Don’t punish a hiss: It’s a warning, not aggression.
Step in calmly if needed: Separate pets if things escalate to chasing, pinning, or swatting with claws.
Reward calm behavior: Praise and treats go a long way in reinforcing tolerance.
Give them time: Trust takes repetition and space to develop naturally.

Create Positive Associations

You're not forcing a friendship. You're creating an environment where one can naturally form.

Treat near each other (with a barrier): This helps your pets link each other’s presence with something good.
Use play strategically: Engage both pets in the same space, with distance, so they associate each other with fun and safety.
Try pheromone diffusers or sprays: Products like Feliway can help reduce stress for cats during transitions.

Prevent Resource Guarding

Pets don’t love sharing at the best of times. Give them what they need to feel secure.

Separate food and water bowls: Don’t expect instant sharing. Keep it easy and neutral.
For cats, follow the litter box rule: One box per cat, plus one extra.
Add vertical territory: Cat shelves or trees give your resident cat escape options when needed.
Stick to the existing pet’s routine: Don’t change mealtimes or walk schedules unless absolutely necessary. Consistency builds confidence.

Extra Tips for Dogs Meeting Kittens

If your resident pet is a dog, take a few extra steps to set everyone up for safety and success.

Use a leash for first meetings: It keeps the intro controlled and calm.
Practice cues in advance: Reinforce commands like “leave it” and “stay” before your kitten arrives.
Supervise every interaction: Don’t leave your dog and kitten alone together until you’re fully confident in their behavior.
Tire out your dog first: A well-exercised dog is less likely to get overexcited. If you’re juggling work and kitten care, our Midday Dog Walks in Charleston are the perfect support.

Don’t Rush the Process

Every pet adjusts on their own timeline. Some are best friends within a week. Others take months to settle into peaceful coexistence.

What matters most is consistency, patience, and low-pressure exposure.

Let them build the relationship at their own pace. You’re not behind — you’re doing it right.

Need Support During the Transition?

New pets bring joy — and sometimes a little chaos. If you're feeling stretched, we're here to help.

At Paws Up!, we support Charleston pet parents with:

Calming enrichment sessions for dogs
Play visits for energetic kittens
Drop-in care and check-ins while you're at work, running errands, or adjusting routines

You focus on bonding. We’ll take care of the backup.

📍 Serving North Charleston, Hanahan, Park Circle, Goose Creek, Ladson, and Downtown Charleston