How can you tell if an adult cat will accept a kitten?

Question

I have a seven year old neutered male cat who gets a bit lonely when I have to leave him by himself for a week or two, so I'm considering getting a kitten to keep him company. His mother used to live with us, but she got loose when I moved and I haven't seen her since. Any thoughts/advise/experience?

Thanks!

I have someone come in and check on my cat every other day when I'm not home. She's not exactly a cat person, though.

Answer 1

I would try to select an older kitten, say seven months to a year. As we approach the end of the kitten "season" there are usually a number kittens who didn't get put up for adoption when they were two or three months old, maybe because they needed some medical help for a few months, etc.

A very young kitten will bug your older one to death. One a little older will not be quite as rambunctious and a little easier for your older cat to tolerate. Male cats tend to adjust more readily to a newcomer. You could go for a male or a female.

Be sure to give your older cat "quality" time specially for him so he will not feel passed over by the cute kitten. Try to get them to play together with a cat dancer of feather toy. This should help to ease early tensions between them.

Answer 2

I introduced a female kitten to a neutered adult male because I felt bad he was alone during the day. It was a rough introduction. She has a strong personality and he was more laid back. For the first few days he retreated under the bed and she made herself right at home. He hissed and growled when she got too close.

They get along much better now, and I think it's good for him to have the company. She's kind of a pest sometimes but he puts up with her. I think overall it is good stimulation for him because he's kind of lazy.

p.s. I hope you have someone checking in on the cat and giving him food and water when he's "by himself for a week or two"!!

Answer 3

Aw.. His mom probbably returned to your old house. I had a cat a few years ago that did the same, and we visited her sometimes.

Anyway, there's no way to tell.. I think..

But you could introduce them both, but dont leave them alone for a while, because they can hurt each other.

They will eventually get used to it and probabbly become friends.

Answer 4

IF THE BIG CAT LIKES THE KITTEN HE WILL TAKE CARE OF THE KITTEN AND LOVE IT OR JUST WALK AWAY. DON'T LIKE THE KITTEN IS FIGHTING IT. A LITTLE HISSING IS FINE BUT WATCH CLOSELY.

Answer 5

i've put a kitten with an older cat and sure they fight, but hey doesen't everything? i suggest one of the same gender

Answer 6

not sure