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Does catnip help cats get along?

Author

William Rodriguez

Published Jan 09, 2026

Stress-busters such as interactive playing, ample scratching opportunities, catnip* (for cats that enjoy it), and luxurious petting sessions may significantly help both cats adjust to their new living situation. *Some cats don't react to catnip at all, while others love it.

Can catnip make two cats get along?

This can help make them feel calmer, and might help with the older one's aggression. Once they're together, try to encourage them to play because that seems to help with bonding. Don't use catnip because it can make cats more aggressive.

Will catnip stop cats from fighting?

The attention of even fighting cats can be diverted to something else. When the male cat appears to be contemplating an attack or even when an altercation is in progress, stay relaxed, keep your voice relaxed and have treats close by for all the cats or toys or catnip.

How do you make cats get along with each other?

Place the cats' food bowls on opposite sides of a closed door. This will encourage them to be close together while they're doing something that makes them feel good. Each day, have the cats switch rooms so that they both experience some variation and get access to each other's scents.

How long does it take for cats to get used to each other?

It takes most cats eight to 12 months to develop a friendship with a new cat. Although some cats certainly become close friends, others never do. Many cats who don't become buddies learn to avoid each other, but some cats fight when introduced and continue to do so until one of the cats must be re-homed.

28 related questions found

Is hissing normal when introducing cats?

Some hissing is normal during this stage. Don't punish the cats for hissing or growling as that can form a negative association about the other cat, as well as you. Allow the cats to see each other once there has been no hissing for a couple of days.

Should I let my cats fight it out?

Don't let them fight it out.

If it's a real fight, never let your cats fight it out. Cats don't solve disagreements with aggressiveness. You don't want to get in the middle of two fighting cats, so try to distract them instead, with a loud noise or sudden movement to break their concentration on their fight.

What do you do when one cat wants to play and the other doesn t?

If the older cat doesn't wish to play, perhaps you can provide soft stroking for the older cat while dangling an interesting toy for the younger cat. Stop the play from time to time and offer each cat some valuable cat treats. This will also build a good feeling about being in the presence of the other cat.

How do you introduce an aggressive cat to other cats?

The best way to do this is by taking your original pet and putting them in a closed bathroom or bedroom for a moment while you move the newcomer to the main part of the house. Then, you can move the other cat into the confined space.

Can catnip make cats aggressive?

Most cats react to catnip by rolling, flipping, rubbing, and eventually zoning out. They may meow or growl at the same time. Other cats become hyperactive or downright aggressive, especially if you approach them. Usually these sessions last about 10 minutes, after which your cat loses interest.

Why is my cat hissing at my other cat all of a sudden?

The most common reason that cats hiss is when they feel threatened by another cat or animal, and they will hiss as a warning to keep away. Hissing is a way to warn the threat to not come any closer or else be attacked.

How do I get my two cats to stop fighting?

If your cats have suddenly started fighting, the safest option is to separate them into different rooms for 24-48 hours until they have both calmed down. You should also keep them inside for this time in order to avoid them meeting and fighting outside.

Does feliway help with introducing cats?

Use a FELIWAY Optimum Diffuser before introducing cats to each other, during first meetings, and for at least one month after they meet, to support a calm, relaxed atmosphere. This will help the cats feel safe and secure and reduce the chance that they will see each other as a potential threat.

Does catnip change a cat's personality?

A cat's behavior changes because the nepetalactone oils affect its olfactory system when it rubs against catnip. Catnip also activates certain pheromone behavioral responses, like sniffing and chewing, connected to oral and/or appetite reflexes. This is why cats without any sense of smell can also respond to catnip.

Does feliway help with introducing a new cat?

We recommend using a FELIWAY CLASSIC Diffuser when introducing a new cat into you home. If conflict between the kitties does arise then it's time for a bit of FELIWAY MultiCat. The calming 'harmony messages' released by the diffuser will allow your cats to relax in each other's company and make for one happy home.

How do I get my new kitten to stop attacking my older cat?

You can stop your kitten from attacking your cat by keeping them separate, spending quality time with both of them, and keeping their resources separate from each other.

How do I stop my new cat from attacking my older cat?

Leave the door of the first room open so the other cats can explore. They will smell the scent of their new house mate and rub against objects in the room to leave their own scent. Alternating rooms each day also helps to prevent territorial behavior.

How do you handle a dominant cat?

If your cats begin to fight, separate the cats as quickly as possible. To do this, you can try throwing a blanket or towel on them. You can also try making a loud noise to break their concentration. Water works well to startle and scare fighting cats.

How do I get my cat to stop playing rough with each other?

To avoid aggression between household cats, steer your cat's playful behavior towards interactive toys. However, if your cat is still attacking the other cat, intercept the behavior or separate the cats during high play times. This is especially important if the other cat is showing signs of stress or fear.

Will my cats ever get along again?

Not all companion cats are going to get along 100% of the time; just as with people, there are bound to be some misunderstandings and miscommunication, but if you notice a pattern of intimidation, there may be more stress between your cats than you originally thought.

How do I get my old cat to like my new cat?

How Do I Get My Older Cat To Like My New Kitten?

  1. Keep the new kitten isolated and feed both the older cat and kitten close the door. ...
  2. Prop the door enough that they can see and smell each other. ...
  3. Bring your older cat into the room with the kitten. ...
  4. Increase the time the cats spend together by 5 or so minutes each day.

How do I get my cat to stop hissing at my new cat?

Jealousy is a normal reaction. Don't yell, scold or punish your current cat for hissing at the newcomer. When he acts nice—or at least nonthreatening—to the new cat, praise him and give treats. If fighting breaks out or either cat is highly stressed, separate them for a few more days.

How do you deal with a jealous cat?

How To Stop Your Cat from Being Jealous

  1. Figure Out What's Making Your Cat Jealous.
  2. Give Them More Attention.
  3. Give Them Space.
  4. Create Positive Associations.
  5. Ask Your Veterinarian for Help.

Why do my cats hate each other all of a sudden?

They're Insecure about Territories. Sometimes sudden outbursts are caused by unease about territories in the home. Cats are naturally territorial, but friendly cats have learned to share their space peacefully. If you recently moved to a new home, they may need to work those issues out again.