Expert: Dear Tabbi - 9/22/2008

Question
our male cat got killed on road, then we got this younger cat so it could be companion for it, but neither one will have anything to do with the other. we also have two weiner dogs who get alone with the older cat. i need heip, would it had been better for a young kitten about 4 or 6 weeks old? thank you

Answer
Bonnie,

I'm sorry about your poor kitty.

When replacing a cat, it's better to get one that is similar in age and temperment. You also need to do the introductions slowly when getting a new cat. It takes time and patience.

Here are some guidelines that you may find helpful:
(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...

Most cats do not like kittens until they have grown up. Older cats usually do not care for kittens because of their energy level, smell, and the fact that they ruin an older cat's routine and peace. If you older cat is grieving, that may cause the older cat to become stressed or cause behavior problems (like inappropriate elimination) or it can cause the older cat to be aggressive towards the younger cat out of frustration.

Growling, slaps, and hisses are nothing to worry about. They are just "kitty communication". That is the way the older cat tells the younger cat to keep her distance, what the rules of "his 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.

Follow the introduction guidelines when introducing a cat to  resident dogs. At the time of the first introduction, apply leashes to the dogs and occupy it with some obedience exercises (sit-stay) with food treats as a reward for calm responding.
Don't EVER let the dog rush toward the cat, even if only in play.

Provide your cat with a variety of escape routes and high hiding places that are easily accessable at all times. Your cat must be able to get away from the dogs whenever necessary.

Slowly allow the dogs and cat spend more time together but always supervise them until you are absolutely sure there is no threat of danger to either of them.


With patience, time, and love...and doing the introduction process correctly, things should work out fine. That is a nice gesture to get a friend for your cat. Some cats are solitary and don't like other cats around, but most like to have a playmate, someone to cuddle with, and someone to comfort them and keep them company when they are alone or bored. Just make sure that you give your older cat a lot of love and attention, so he doesn't feel like you like the other cat better than him now.

I hope this helps.

Tabbi