Question:
Dusty, my 17-year-old male cat, just died. We got Dusty from the pound when he was 7 years old and Katy a year later when she was 8 weeks old.
Dusty was jealous, and they never really bonded as I hoped they would. But they were company for each other and got along in a compromised way. I know Katy mourned Dusty's passing -- I could sense it.
I can never replace Dusty, but I think it is important to find another companion for Katy. If possible, I would like to have the new cat or kitten and Katy bond this time. Katy is now 10 years old. What factors might bring this about?
S.D., Palm Beach Gardens, FL Jul 17, 2011
Answer:
It is generally true that the older the cat, the less likely it is to accept a newcomer. Cats get set in their ways, and any change in their familiar environment can be upsetting.
But there are exceptions to all generalizations, and Katy may come to enjoy a friendly feline companion. I would opt for adopting a neutered male of about Katy's age on approval, so you can return the new cat if they don't get along after three to four weeks. A playful and active kitten may be too much for her to handle without "time out" to give her a break. But that is your alternative choice.
Use a plug-in Feliway cat pheromone diffuser in one room where you must keep the cats together, closely supervised. Take one of the cats with you when you leave and put that cat in an adjoining room or closed corridor so they can get used to each other's scent and sounds under the closed door. Have a towel handy to throw over them if a fight occurs, and set up furniture and a few cardboard boxes so the cats can hide if they need to. Set up a separate litter box in the other room or closed hallway, but encourage both cats to eat together. Seeing you pet, groom and play with Katy will also help the newcomer settle down.
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