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choosing a kitten as an older kittens companion

13:42:08

Question
Hi again Barbara. Any guidlines as to companion's GENDER?
Thanks, Karen
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Followup To

Question -
Dear Barbara,
We adopted a spayed DSH older kitten who came unexpectedly into our lives in January. She is 8-9 mos. now.  We feel it would be wonderful for her to have a companion kitty to play and to socialize with, both for her health and emotional well being.  She loves to get us to play chase games with her (but we can hardly keep up)and she is very sociable. We think she is part Russian Blue since she is frosty gray and white and she has gray pads, nose, and a large gray spot on the roof of her mouth. We are wondering if there are any guidelines in CHOOSING a companion for her based on SEX or on any other factors.  We believe it is easiest on her if we get one a bit younger than she is, and our local no-kill cat shelter has several wonderful, healthy, active, friendly kittens ready for adoption. They are well socialized in a home style environment.
Thank you,
Karen

Answer -
It is always a good thing for a kitten to have a companion. They are so much happier and healthier too with the companionship and exercise provided by a pal.
You are right to look for a nice, outgoing, sweet tempered, slightly younger kitten for her companion.

Expect a little hostility in the very beginning, but it should pass rapidly and they will be lifelong pals.

Color, like blue, does not indicate breed. Most breeds come in blue and bicolor. But nevermind the breed. If your kitten is sweet, healthy and loving, you are a lucky pet owner.

Best regards,
Barb

Answer
There is no hard and fast rule about gender, as they will both be neutered. In most cases though, males tend to be less agressive and more mellow as playmates. Two females are more likely to have issues although not always.
Go with the most outgoing and affectionate kitten that you can find.

Regards,
Barb