Expert: Dear Tabbi - 8/11/2008

Question
I have a 7 month old ragdoll and I just brought a 3 month old ragdoll home. They are both females and the sweetest kittens... HOWEVER my 7 month old hates the kitten, hissing and swatting. She is ok if I hold the kitten and if she can lay away from the kitten and watch it play. The problem is the kitten just wants to play with the older one, and the older one will hiss and swat anytime the kitten comes up to her. We are currently keeping the kitten in her own room, my older kitten is starting to get used to the scents and is starting to sit outside the door and just watches it.  Whats your advice? How long does it normally take???


Answer
Lisa,

You have to go through the introduction process slowly. It takes about 2 weeks or more to do it correctly and effectively. You can't rush it or you will have behavior problems that are going to be hard to correct.

I am attaching a couple of very good links on how to go about the introduction process: (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...

Hissing, growling, and swats are normal kitty communication and nothing to be worried about unless there is blood loss, major fur flying, or ears pinned back.

Once they can be together without fighting feed both cats yummy cat treats (like tuna or pieces of raw steak) TOGETHER. That is so the cats will associate each other with something pleasant.

Also getting a pet laser light (at PetSmart, etc.) is great for interaction between the two cats. They both can chase the 'little red bug' on the floor, ceilings, and walls, and they tend to forget about the other cat as they focus on the 'bug' which helps them get used to each other.

It just takes time and lots of patience. All will work out.

Tabbi