[Written by a Veterinarian] Why is a "Quarantine Period" Necessary to Protect Your Resident Cat? Infectious Disease Prevention and Introduction Steps When Welcoming a Rescued Cat

"I'm getting a new cat! I can't wait for them to play with everyone." It's natural to feel that way when you welcome a new cat into your home. But wait! Please hold back that feeling just a little. Rescued cats and former strays may have invisible infections or parasites due to the harsh environments they've lived in.

This article explains the importance of a "quarantine period" to protect the lives of your existing cats, as advised by a veterinarian, and how to introduce them carefully to prevent fights.

Sudden introductions are a no-go! The medical reasons why rescued cats need a "quarantine period"

Risk of viruses and parasites during the incubation period

Various pathogens and internal parasites have an "incubation period" where they are present in the body but show no symptoms. During the incubation period, infection is established, and they can potentially infect other animals. The incubation period for many infections is approximately two weeks.

Also, fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms (such as roundworms and tapeworms, which are internal parasites) may not be eradicated with a single deworming treatment, often requiring multiple additional doses.

Stress from environmental change and onset of illness

Newly rescued cats are under extreme stress. Stress can lower immunity, causing dormant conditions like cat flu to suddenly flare up. While most cats need about two weeks to adjust to a new environment, nervous cats may take over a month. The top priority is to first let them slowly get used to the "home" environment in a separate room and stabilize their health.

How to spend the quarantine period and "infection control" measures for owners to be aware of

A completely separate room is ideal. If not possible, a cage + cloth to block visibility

Ideally, you should prepare "a private room that existing cats cannot enter" and "a quiet room where the sound of large appliances and everyday life sounds are less likely to reach." If that's difficult, prepare a large, two or three-tiered cage and cover it completely with a cloth to block visibility. Many cat infections are transmitted through secretions, excretions, or direct contact. Never allow your existing cats to get close enough to touch noses with the new cat.

Order of care and thorough handwashing/disinfection

While some cat infections are transmitted from cat to cat, pathogens can also adhere to human clothing and be carried to other cats. To prevent this, always care for your cats in the order of "existing cat → rescued cat." If your existing cat has cat flu, feline AIDS, or feline leukemia, it might be better to care for the rescued cat first. If that's difficult, wash and disinfect your hands and change your clothes before caring for the next cat.

Also, after touching the rescued cat, always wash and disinfect your hands, and if necessary, change your clothes before interacting with your existing cat.

Sharing food dishes and litter boxes is strictly forbidden.

Is "hissing" a greeting? Step-by-step "introduction" guide for success

Step 1: Scent exchange without visual contact

Once the quarantine period is over, you can finally allow them to interact. However, introducing them suddenly can damage their future relationship. Start by exchanging their scents.

Exchange towels or blankets with each other's scent to help them recognize, "This scent is unfamiliar, but it's not an enemy." Let your existing cat sniff the scent, and then wipe the rescued cat's body with a towel. Let the existing cat sniff that towel so they can get to know each other.

Allowing them to sense each other's presence through the door of the quarantine room is also effective. In that case, do not let them see each other directly.

Step 2: Face-to-face in a cage (starting from a few minutes)

Place the new cat in a cage, then bring your existing cat into the room.

Even if they hiss, it's okay as long as they don't try to attack. Give them treats to create a positive association: "Good things happen when that cat is around." Give treats to each cat separately. If your existing cat is nervous, you can introduce them by placing both in separate carriers. Start with very short introductions, just a momentary glimpse, and gradually extend the time.

Step 3: Short periods of free interaction

Once they stop hissing at each other through the cage, try opening the cage door. Initially, keep it to short periods of about 5 minutes, and gradually increase the time as they get used to it. The owner must always be present and immediately intervene with a towel or similar if a fight seems imminent. Never take your eyes off them during the introduction.

Summary

The quarantine period for welcoming a rescued cat is not about being cruel, but a crucial time to protect the lives of your beloved cats. Considering the incubation period of pathogens, do not allow contact for at least two weeks. After these two weeks, slowly introduce them.

Take your time with introductions. If you show that you prioritize your existing cat, the day will surely come when they become family, even if it takes time.

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