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Cats/introducing two females

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Expert: - 1/24/2008


Question
Hi, my cat Louise has been the only cat for several years and now we need to introduce her to a 6 month old female.  Before this newcomer she had a sister-Thelma and when both of them had litters Louise became very aggressive towards Thelma.  Ever since that incident, Louise has been the one ruling the household.  Thelma is no longer with us and now we are introducing her to Muffin.  The first day we separated them, Louise not wanting to leave our bedroom while Muffin is very curious and tries to introduce herself to Louise.  Muffin is a very calm and loving cat but Louise is hissing, growling and ready to attack.  Is this normal and will we ever get these two together.  We've witness Louise just out of control when other cats from the outside stopping by the window at night.  That's a sight that I don't want to see with Muffin.  She literally broke the screen off and the noise she was making scared my husband as well as myself.  I don't want this to happen with Muffin.  I truly believe that if Louise got a hold of the other cat, there would have been blood.  She is normally an aggressive cat to begin with but she's getting up there with age so I have hope that she will at least give Muffin a chance.  Do we have a chance and please if you have any suggestion as to how we can go about this with less pain as possible I would really appreciate any kind of help.

Thank you
Nick and Boon

Answer
Hi Boon,

Follow this cat introduction protocol.

http://www.sfspca.org/behavior/cat_library/cat2cat-intro.pdf

This will be the best way to introduce them. There will be some hissing but it should subside over time. Good luck. Oh and unless you live in the area, don't call the numbers listed in the protocol. :)

Ciao, Karen

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Karen Craft

Expertise

I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!

Experience

I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care. Some thoughts to carry with you. A Cat's 10 Commandments My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it. Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you. If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so. Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.

Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.

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