Introducing Kittens

Question
Hi, I have 2 kittens. One was a feral rescue that we have had for
2 weeks and is thriving and affectionate. She is aproximately
12-14 weeks old. Her name is Dottie. We decided to get her a
brother, Jack. A feral that was rescued very young and bottle fed.
He is aprx. 12 weeks old. I introduced them to each other
yesterday. Dottie seems to be trying to dominate him and is
always jumping on him and biting him. He meows and growls
and sometimes hisses but is smaller and can't fight back very
well. I don't know if all this rough housing is normal play or if
Dottie is being too aggressive. I try to get them to play together
but the yougner new kitten just takes her toys and runs away,
this of course causes a chase. There are some moments of
solitude and they have eaten out of the same bowl together in
peace. I know I've only had them togther for 2 days but I'm not
sure if they will ever get along. I keep them separated when I
can't monitor their play. I'm not sure what to do! Are they going
to hurt each other or is this just natural rough housing? They are
both such affectionate kittens with humans and I just want them
to learn to sleep together and play nice. Any help is appreciated!
Thanks for your time and expertise.

Erin

Answer
Hello Erin and the new kittens!

You don't have to worry a bit...they're being kittens and playing.  His taking the toys and running is him trying to start the game (and it sounds like it's working!), and they're having loads of fun together.  The only time you have to worry is if you see that in time he starts hiding from her all the time.  Otherwise, relax, sit down, and enjoy the fun!  When you're able to relax about it, it's quite funny to watch!

Them doing the wrestling, hissing, growling, biting, meowing, etc. is just them playing.  Kitties do this in the wild to learn how to fight later on, if needed, and all kittens play this way, so not to worry!  :o)

Enjoy!  Many hugs to you all!

Rosie*