Expert: Dear Tabbi - 10/20/2008

Question
I have a male cat and female cat who are both fixed. We are thinking of bringing a new cat into our home but our female doesn't seem to like the new male cat but our male cat does. Does this have anything to do with the new male cat not being fixed?

Answer
Jake,

Yes, that could have a lot to do with it. Usually females not in heat do not care for a tomcat's smell. I would get him nuetered right away.

The most important thing about introductions is to go SLOWLY! Do not try to rush it or force them together or you WILL end up with behavior problems. I am including some excellent links to articles on how to do the introductions properly. They should be helpful as a guide.
(copy and paste, or type the whole links into your address bar)

http://www.messybeast.com/first-impressions.htm

http://www.littlebigcat.com/index.php?action=library&act=show&item=cattocatintro...

I use a big dog crate for a new cat. It has room for litterbox, food and water, small cat carrier without the door for a bed and to get up on, and they still have room. That way they can get used to other cats around, and other cats can sniff and check them out safely. You can gradually let the cat out for short periods of time as they start getting used to each other. I got mine at Petco. I am attaching a picture of it.

Growling, slaps, and hisses are nothing to worry about. They are just "kitty communication". That is the way a cat tells the another cat to keep their distance, what the rules of "their house" are, etc. When to be concerned is if there are ears pinned back, blood being shed, or major fur flying.

Once the cats can be together without being aggressive, or freaking out, feed the cats yummy cat treats periodically (like tuna, sardines (in oil) or pieces of raw steak, etc.) TOGETHER. That is so the cats will associate each other with something pleasant. Also getting a pet laser light (at PetSmart, Petco, etc.) is great for interaction between the cats. They can chase the 'little red bug' on the floor, ceilings, and walls, and they tend to forget about the other cats as they focus on the 'bug' which helps them get used to each other.

I hope this helps.

Tabbi