New kitten + anxious ornery cat

by Sarah
(Sydney NSW Australia)

Great site!

We have a 2 yr old cat who we rescued from 6 wks. She has always been very anxious, skittish, and is not keen on too much touching. She is very playful and likes human company even though she is not very affectionate.

We thought a friend would be beneficial, and then we were able to also rescue an 8 wk old kitten. He is the complete opposite - docile, sweet, very affectionate, never claws etc. It has been 2 months of slow gentle introduction whilst trying to minimize stress. However, he is still confined to the bedroom as she gets very aggressive, even when he's in the cat carrier! We love them both to bits and don't want to give up, but this has been 2 months of extreme stress on everyone!

We've done the whole lot - separate food, litter, safe places, lots of treats and playtime, trying not to push our luck ever etc. Is it possible that they'll never get along? Any ideas and suggestions are welcome. We've just been reading about pheromone therapy and will try that. Are there any other possibilities?

Many thanks,
Sarah

RESPONSE:

Just let them "duke it out" on their own. The adult cat's behavior is quite normal and the kitten will soon learn how to deal with her. This happens all the time in a cat's natural world. It is doubtful she will really hurt the kitten but she will box his ears for a while until the kitten learns how to act around her. This is a natural part of a kitten's growing up process so let it happen.
With our new kittens, one cat in particular, Jerry, is very jealous and hisses and smacks one of them at every opportunity. Just recently, Sasha decided she had had enough of his attitude and began hissing and smacking him back! He no longer tries to intimidate her!
Just let them work out their relationship in their own way. It may take a few weeks but they will eventually come to an understanding. They may never become best friends or they will grow inseparable. But you will never know until you let them find out so just keep your cool and let it happen!
Good Luck!!

Donna,
House Full Cats Mom