cat-astrophic

Question
We adopted a 16 month old cat/kitten, we already own a 5 year old cat. After we arrived home it was brought to our attention that we should keep them separated for three weeks (here's the concern) The 5 year old has taken permanent (fearful)residency in the bathroom, whenever their in striking distance of one another they fight and though the 16 month old is half the size she appears more aggressive. since the old cat fears coming out, (one month and counting) we have an additional litter pan and food dish where i don't want it. Oh`yeah, we have a small place. Please advise.

Answer

Good for safe introduc Lewis,

Sometimes a cat is a 'loner' and happy being an only cat and will not want another cat around, which yours may be. Your first priority is to your 5 year old's happiness and well-being. The stress of another cat may cause health and emotional problems. You may want to think about rehoming the younger cat.

I am attaching 2 links on how to go about the introduction process in the correct manner. The articles should be a guide:
(copy and paste, or type the whole links into your address bar)

http://www.messybeast.com/first-impressions.htm

http://www.littlebigcat.com/index.php?action=library&act=show&item=cattocatintro...

Once the cats can be together without fighting or freaking out feed  the cats yummy cat treats periodically (like tuna, sardines (in oil) or pieces of raw steak, etc.) TOGETHER. That is so the cats will associate each other with something pleasant. Also getting a pet laser light (at PetSmart, Petco, etc.) is great for interaction between the cats. They can chase the 'little red bug' on the floor, ceilings, and walls, and they tend to forget about the other cats as they focus on the 'bug' which helps them get used to each other (and you).

There is a calming product that you can add to the cat's food or water that reduces anxiety called Bach's Rescue Remedy. It is available on-line and in health food stores. Here is a link about it: http://www.bachflower.com/Pets.htm

I use a big dog crate for a new cat. It has room for litterbox, food and water, small cat carrier without the door for a bed and to get up on, and they still have room. That way they can get used to other cats around, and other cats can sniff and check them out safely. You can gradually let the cat out for short periods of time as they start getting used to each other. I got mine at Petco. I am attaching a picture of it.

Tabbi