Will my cat accept a kitten?

Adult cats will usually accept a new kitten much more easily than they will accept a new adult cat. Cats are territorial, and your cat may resent an adult feline intruder. If you're able to choose from a group of kittens, avoid a kitten that's hissing, growling or engaged in serious battle with his mates.

How long will it take for my cat to accept a new kitten?

It can take several weeks to several months for a cat to get used to a new kitten—and even longer for them to become "friends." Some cats will learn to tolerate a newcomer, but may never be interested in playing or napping together. In other cases, the cat will take to the kitten right away.

Will my cat accept a kitten or adult cat?

Given time, many cats will accept a new kitten. When you think your older cat is comfortable around your kitten, you can start to let your kitten have more freedom, under supervision.

How do I get my older cat to accept a kitten?

Is it OK to get a kitten with an older cat?

Older cats will generally not take kindly to a kitten that they consider to be a pesky, frolicking “intruder” that is infringing on his domain.” That's because senior cats are set in their ways. They thrive on a customary and established routine. It can be extremely stressful for them when that routine is shattered.

My Cat HATES my New Kitten - Help? How to Introduce Cats!

Is it better to have 1 or 2 cats?

If anything, having two cats in the house is better than one cat in a home and another living out its days in the shelter. Kittens are more likely to get adopted than dogs, but some cats do end up staying in the shelter. Plus, taking in two cats is not much more expensive than taking in one cat.

Is it better to get a kitten as a second cat?

Kittens are more likely to adjust easily to each other fairly quickly. An adult cat might get along better with a kitten rather than another cat of the same age. This doesn't mean two older cats can't get along. You might want to match them based on personality and energy levels and be sure you introduce them slowly.

What do I do if my cat doesn't like my new kitten?

If either party appears aggressive, fearful or just unsure, don't force the interaction. Separate them again and continue with scent swapping. Cat and/or kitten may vary with their reactions; from curious to unconcerned, playful to nervous. Make sure both have plenty of space and the ability to retreat if necessary.

Do female cats get along better with male or female cats?

Sex simply isn't an accurate predictor of how well a pair of cats will get along. Instead, whether the cats are similar in temperament is more important. Cats that act the same are more likely to get along. The only time this isn't the case is when you're dealing with two active, territorial cats.

Will a 2 year old cat get along with a kitten?

Think Kittens

And, yes, 2 adult cats can become friends. In fact, one such friendship has sprung up between 2 rescues that another friend of mine has taken in.

Will my cat hate me if I get a new kitten?

While older cats will occasionally take to a new kitten right away, they typically need a little time to adjust to the changes. Sometimes cats never fully accept a new kitten but will simply coexist, keeping to themselves away from the other cat in the house.

Can cats get depressed with new kitten?

Too many times families will notice signs of depression after getting a kitten in their old cat. They feel like their territory has been invaded which manifests as your older cat becoming more withdrawn, hissing at the new arrival, and even physical changes such as weight loss due to a loss of appetite.

How do you tell if your cat would like another cat?

How do I know if my cats like each other? Cats with a close bond will usually display obvious signs that they consider themselves to be part of the same 'social group'. These signs might include grooming each other, rubbing their bodies together and sleeping or lying right next to each other.

How long will older cat hiss at kitten?

Introducing two cats can be difficult without any form of hissing or tension. In most cases, the hissing will only persist for a few weeks. Cats will quickly adapt to their new normal and realize that their new roommate is in fact a friend.

Will my cats personality change if I get another cat?

Don't worry too much about the gender of the cats involved. Age and temperament are the most important factors. Adult cats will usually accept a new kitten much more easily than they will accept a new adult cat. Cats are territorial, and your cat may resent an adult feline intruder.

How do I choose a second cat?

How do you introduce a new cat?

Ask a friend or family member to help you with the introduction. Have one cat and one person on each side of the door, and start the introduction by setting each cat down a few feet away from the screen or gates. When the cats notice each other, say their names and toss treats to them, aiming the treats behind them.

What animal is a good companion for a cat?

Choosing the Right Small Animal to Live with Your Cat

While there's no guarantee the relationship will work, larger exotic pets such as rabbits, ferrets, tortoises, and even guinea pigs are likely the best choices, Cruzen advises.

Will my cat be jealous of a new kitten?

It may be the arrival of a new family member, such as a newborn baby or pet. Simple things like your cell phone, a video game, or a hobby can also be triggers. Poor socialization as a kitten may lead a cat to become codependent on you and display signs of jealousy at times.

Are cats happier alone or in pairs?

Pairs are Happier

Despite their independent natures, cats are social creatures that need companionship to thrive. Left alone, a cat can develop behavioral problems, and in some cases, even show signs of depression. Cats in bonded pairs, on the other hand, are more likely to be better adjusted.

Should I get a kitten for my kitten?

Despite the common belief that cats are solitary animals, they're actually incredibly social beings who thrive when they have feline friends from an early age. That's why I always recommend adopting two kittens, or adopting a solo kitten only if you already have another young cat in the home for the kitten to befriend.

How do you tell if cats are a bonded pair?

How can you tell if two cats are bonded? If you are unsure of whether cats are bonded, there are some things to look for. These include enjoying playtime together, and also sleeping next to each other. Other bonded behaviors include rubbing their bodies and faces against each other, and eating food at the same time.

What is single kitten syndrome?

A lonely kitten can be a real “cat-tastrophe” for felines and humans alike. With Single Kitten Syndrome, kittens grow up to be cats with “cattitude.” They tend to play too roughly and often get returned when they reach adulthood and their behavior isn't so cute anymore.

Are male cats more affectionate?

Male cats tend to be more social and affectionate with both humans and other cats. They commonly form strong bonds with other cats in the home, even when they are not from the same litter. Females, on the other hand, are often more standoffish. If you are looking for a cuddle bug, adopting a male may be your best bet.

What are the pros and cons of getting a second cat?

Getting a second cat will help fulfill the original cat's social needs. The new cat can assist with grooming, learning good eating and toilet habits, staying fit, and playing. However, not all cats benefit from having a companion feline. Older cats may stress kittens, and cats that are equal in age may fight.