Expert: Norman Auspitz - 10/5/2009

Question
I have noticed that my cat gets depressed when I am not around. He is a 2 and a half year old, neutered Bengal with a very sweet personality, he loves people, he follows you around like a dog and loves attention but does not like being smothered. He isn't dominant, and he is very playful. He lived at his breeder's house until he was a year old with around a dozen or more other cats. He also gets along with my parents' dogs when I go to visit them. He even allows the 7 month old puppy wrestle with him. I want to get him a buddy so he won't be so lonely. I am thinking about going back to the breeder who is trying to find homes for most of her cats as she is getting out of breeding them. I was wondering, what age, gender (will be fixed of course), and personality cat would be most compatible with my love of a kitty.

Also, I will be moving later this month. Would it be best to move both cats into the space at once, or wait until my current cat gets settled?

Just a note, I have to get another Bengal as they are the only cats I have met that don't really mess with my allergies. Otherwise, I would be getting a shelter kitty.

Thanks,
Amanda

Answer
Amanda,

Usually, once they are fixed, the gender does not seem to make that much difference.  Also, there is no guarantee that the new acquisition will get along with your 2 1/2 year old.  If the breeder will let you have a kitten (at least 4 months of age), this is the best bet for your established cat to get along with the newbee. I agree, getting both kitties in the new place at the same time might be a better transition for both of them.  

A couple of things to remember:  Cats do get jealous, so ply your established kitty with extra treats and affection when you play with the new arrival, so the coming oif the new kitty is looked at as a good thing.  You also mayt need two litter pans and they may have to be in sepoarate locations.  You will just have to see what develops.

If you establish your present kitty first, there is a pretty good protocol for introducing a new cat to the household.  Please let me know if you are interested.

Best regards... Norm.