Introduction of new cat to older cat

Question
QUESTION: We have an 11 year old cat and recently got a 3 mo. old kitten.  We kept the animals separated for over 3 days before introducing.  When introduced, they got along very well and played with one another.  After about 3 days of only letting the kitten out in the evening when we are home, the older cat began growling, hissing and has quit eating.  I am concerned the older cat is now very stressed and is not adapting to the new kitten.  We have been trying to show the older cat our affection.  Is there anything we can do short of getting rid of the kitten?  They had gotten along so well in the beginning but the not eating is causing weight loss and other issues.  We have also maintained completely separate food, water, litter, bedding, etc.  The kitten is also confined at night and the older cat has run of the house.

ANSWER: Hi Scott,
Don't worry about the lack of eating.  The instinct of survival will kick in.

It takes a lot longer than 3 days to get an 11-yr old cat to adjust.  The transition should take 3 weeks if done properly.  Start by keeping them separate and feeding them "wet food" treats on opposite sides of the door.  That way they associate something positive with one another.  After about a week of that, trade places for an hour a day.  Let the new kitten explore and let the older one get used to the smells of the kitten.  After 3 weeks they should be used to each other, but don't expect love at first sight ;).

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: We had a problem once before with this cat in which he litterally starved himself after we moved from an apartment to a house.  The vet had to hydrate via IV as well as force feed him.  We then took him home and had to force feed him 3 times daily (vets recommendation) for a period of almost a month after he lost 4 of his 10 lbs.  This is why we are very afraid of going through this again with him.  Additionally, the vet found nothing medically wrong with him during the first episode.  (Test for fatty liver, urinary tract, cancer, etc. were all negative).  He has not eaten anything in 3 days and has lost almost 2 lbs.  I ended up giving the kitten back last evening out of fear and we are truly broken-hearted as this was the most darling, lovable and sweetest kitten.  We had also done our best not to show the kitten too much attention or affection...or thought we had.  Thank you for the information.

Answer
That's too bad about it not working out.  I actually keep my cats in separate groups because of fighting.  Would that be a possibility for you to try?  It sounds like it took some work but even after the adjustment period your cat did go back to eating on his own.  

Once your cat starts eating on his own again (try yummy wet food & tuna to kick start it) is there a chance you can try again with the kitty and keep them separate for the 3 weeks?  A move is an abrupt change, perhaps he would do better under a gradual change.........