help me understand please!

Question
how can i make my 5 month old male kitten and my 1 year old female cat get along

Answer

dog crate Jasimere,

First thing is to make sure both are neutered and spayed. A lot of older cats do NOT like kittens until they get older. Probably because of their energy and smell.

You've got to go through an introduction period slowly. It can take 2 weeks, a month, or more for them to start getting along. You can not just put them together and expect them to get along. That very rarely ever happens.

I am attaching a couple of links on how to go about the introduction process: (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...

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.

Once they can be together without fighting feed both cats yummy cat treats (like tuna or pieces of raw steak) TOGETHER. That is so the cats will associate each other with something pleasant.

Also getting a pet laser light (at PetSmart, etc.) is great for interaction between the two cats. They both can chase the 'little red bug' on the floor, ceilings, and walls, and they tend to forget about the other cat as they focus on the 'bug' which helps them get used to each other.

It just takes time and lots of patience. It will work out if you take it slow and don't force them together until they are ready.

Tabbi