We have a big male cat and
are thinking of getting a kitten. Because he has always
been 'master' of the house, we are not sure if he will
take to the new kitten. Can we get a kitten? (James
Watt, Wisconsin)
Cats are very territorial and
like to have their own 'patch'. Male cats generally want
more territory than females and neutered cats want the
least. Acquiring a kitten will certainly be seen as less
of a threat than an adult, although it is very difficult
to forecast exactly what will happen. In most cases there
are relatively few problems.
There will be an initial period of
hissing and spitting from both cats at first. The older
cat will retire to glare at the kitten from a distance. It
is essential that both cats have the opportunity to feed quietly
and on their own. Allow them to meet periodically
throughout the first few days (but always remain present)
and you may find they begin to accept each others'
company. This is provided the kitten can resist chasing
and playing with the older cat - which may irritate him
(Tip: buy a relatively sedate looking kitten).
Our advice would be to go ahead and get
the kitten since all will probably be OK with perseverance.
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We have a big male cat and
are thinking of getting a kitten. Because he has always
been 'master' of the house, we are not sure if he will
take to the new kitten. Can we get a kitten? (James
Watt, Wisconsin)
Cats are very territorial and
like to have their own 'patch'. Male cats generally want
more territory than females and neutered cats want the
least. Acquiring a kitten will certainly be seen as less
of a threat than an adult, although it is very difficult
to forecast exactly what will happen. In most cases there
are relatively few problems. 
