New male or new female?

by Katherine
(San Jose, Costa Rica)

I have 2 9-month-old sisters, Selma and Estrella, recently spayed. I've been thinking of getting a 3rd kitty. Should I get a male or a female? Even though Selma is the smaller and skinnier cat of the two, she clearly dominates Estrella. Estrella would rather take to flight than fight, but if she has to defend herself, she'll rise to the occasion. I think Estrella would rather not do any serious fighting with Selma because she knows she could easily beat her up. Don't get me wrong: 90% of the time they're sweet kitties who snuggle and play together happily. I'm concerned that if I get a 3rd female, Selma would get insanely jealous and bully the new kitty to show her who's boss. I've been considering getting a little male. Any advice? Oh, and by the way, when they're small, how in tarnation can you tell the boys from the girls?

RESPONSE:

Try a little boy. Girls can get very territorial even after spaying. But either way, the girls will likely still try to beat up the younger one. It is just their nature. They rarely do any damage and it is how kittens learn to socialize with their elders. Just keep an eye on things until the kitten is a few months old and able to defend itself.
As to determining sex, it can be difficult when they are very young! Just look (and feel) for a scrotal sac below the anus. If it's there, it is a boy! With girls, the vulva will appear as a small slit just below the anus.
Good luck, and no matter what you end up getting, boy or girl, enjoy!

Donna, House Full Cats Mom