I'm considering adopting a sweet 9 year old cat from a local shelter. Right now, I have a 3.5 year old cat who's not too active but not very lazy either. I'm not really worried about introducing them, but how will having two cats be different from having just one? I'd really love some input from cat owners who have gone through this change.
P.S. Are there any special things I need to do to accomodate the older cat?
2007-01-22 10:06:31 · 5 answers · asked by Cheeb 2 in Pets ➔ Cats
Once the two cats are accustomed to each other, your life could actually be a little calmer. Two cats will keep each other company, and will generally "pal around" together. Presuming they get along well, they'll often sleep together for warmth. A nine-year-old cat is sort of a senior citizen as cats go, but by no means elderly (I have a cat that's going on 16 years, myself).
Initially, it's probably a good idea to keep the new cat in a room where the present cat can smell but not come directly into contact with him/her. After a few days, there's a good chance that curiosity will do its job, and after a few territorial hisses, they'll get along fine.
The biggest change might simply be having to buy a little bit more food and kitty litter, which isn't quite enough to break the bank for most foks. If the older cat has difficulties with things like arthritis, heated sleeping pads can work wonders, and your younger one probably won't complain either :-) I have a couple of heating pads that stay plugged in all the time; I got them off eBay for about $16 each. (I'm putting the link below; this person apparently sells them all the time). They just go inside any blanket or existing pet bed, and keep it just around the body temperature of a cat.
I think it's great that you're considering adopting from a shelter; there are so many great cats out there that need good homes, and lots of people out there who would be excellent cat families!
2007-01-22 10:12:37 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
We have "gone through" many cats in the past years, and they usually do fine. My suggestion would be to keep the new cat in his carrier for a little while, and let the other one come up and sniff it. Moniter them and look for any signs of aggression. If the cats act friendly towards eachother, it should be OK to let the new one out. Also, sometimes it's good to buy a senior cat chow. I would suggest Purina, as they have food for all the different stages of life. Good Luck!
2007-01-22 10:12:22 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just that it may take a few weeks for the other cat to accept the new cat. It may feel like it is taking over the territory. They will grow to love each other. Cats usually love the company of other cats and will sleep and cuddle with each other.
2007-01-22 10:13:57 · answer #3 · answered by ? 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Other than one extra mouth to feed no there won't be much difference.but take in to consideration your cat that you have had for awhile.It will not at first like this new addition might be some hissing fights,and hidden under the bed moments.Till it figures out that you still love and protect him/her.also make sure which I know you would that all your cats shots and such are up to date.Very important don't want either of them passing something to the other.Other than that have fun with your new pet and good luck.
2007-01-22 10:20:20 · answer #4 · answered by Smiles 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your cat now has been an only child his whole life, you might be in for some drama, but I'm sure they will adjust. Make sure they both know they are loved and maybe give them seperate food dishes.
2007-01-22 13:43:10 · answer #5 · answered by gwensize 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋