Expert: Tina - 4/1/2007

Question
Hi,

I have recently purchased an 6w old bengal kitten, and i already had a 3yr old moggy from which i have had since she was 6w too, she seems curious about him but growls if he or she gets close to him, she has been spayed and doesn't like other adult cats, she is an indoor cat, she seems to be coming out of her shell slowly,

Any suggestions?

Thank you for your time Jemma

Answer
HI Jemma,

It takes time for a resident cat to accept a new companion. Cats are pretty territorial and need to feel secure. Here's an article with suggestions on how to help introduce the new kitten:

http://catnet.stanford.edu/articles/introducing_cats.html

Along with the advice there, make sure your older cat has many places she can retreat to when she wants to be alone - for example a nice tall cat tree she can sit on top of. Feeding the cats in different rooms can help reduce food-related anxiety as well.

Playing with both cats in the same room can help bring her out of her shell - if you have a laser pointer or a feather wand or something she really likes to play with, play with her and then the kitten and back and forth.

Best wishes for a harmonious household!