Expert: Marcia Owen - 11/14/2007

Question
QUESTION: Subject: 2 male kittens or one male/one female?

Question
Dear Marcia,
I have purchased a male exotic kitten and also a Ragdoll kitten.  I cannot decide whether to get the male or female Ragdoll kitten.  I have searched the net and all the answers vary.  I am leaning toward the 2 males as the few female cats I grew up with were not as sweet as the males.  The males were more dependent, which I loved.  What would you recommend.  Will it make a difference if I bring them home 3 weeks apart?  Do you think these 2 breeds will get along?
I probably will be showing the Ragdoll at the Santa Monica Cat Show next August.  Would you know someone I could contact in the San Mo area to be my "show" mentor?
Thanks so much


ANSWER: Hi

I would assume from what you are saying that your cats will be neutered so essentially from that point of view it really is a matter of preference.  However, I do tend to agree that boys do tend to be more 'soppy' and don't have the same dominance issues that girls do seem to have.

Yes I would have said that the two breeds should be fine together as they are essentially the same sort of temperament and 3 weeks apart will not be a problem.  I am sure it won't be long before they are cuddling together.

Sadly I can't help with a contact at your show as I live in the UK but I do hope you have a successful and enjoyable show.

Marcia

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: One quick question I forgot to ask.  The Ragdoll male is getting neutered by the breeder this week as he is 4 months old.  The Exotic will be 3 months old when he joins our home.  Should I get him neutered at 4 months, 5 months or 6, so there won't be any spraying problems.
Love the UK - my maiden name is Chapman (very English) Kind regards,
auburnla

Answer
Some breeders neuter at 3 months old so if the Exotic is coming un-neutered I would give him 2/3 weeks to settle in and then book him in for neutering.  Though Exotic's are not known for becoming sexually mature early, it is best not to wait to see if yours will be the exception LOL.

Yes Chapman is a very English name!

Marcia.