How Do I Know When To Move Past Stage 3 Of Cat Introductions?

[KarenKat]

That is very sad, but what a lucky kitty to be twice loved.

 

[Mamanyt1953]

Sounds like one of those "meant to be" situations. And all is going well with the introductions. Just keep monitoring them for a while yet, to be certain there are no BIG setbacks. A few growls, even a quick swat or two could happen. That's fine. That's the older cats teaching the kitten manners, and he'll be a better cat for it.

 

[Little Chappers]

Thanks all, for the feedback! You’ve all been super helpful and I appreciate it!

Is it ok if the kitten tries to pounce on the older ones in play and if they put him in his place? There is no aggressive behaviour (no claws, drawing blood, etc) but they definitely tell him they don’t like it. Should I be intervening? Or letting them sort it out? I sort of thought of it as him being a playful 5 month old and them teaching him their boundaries, but if I should be preventing it before it happens I will. I’m also working harder at making sure he is tired and less of a pesky kitten to them.

 

[lavishsqualor]

- the house was built in 1890

I'm insanely jealous! My body is living in a high rise condo but my soul occupies a house similar to yours.

 

[Mamanyt1953]

Is it ok if the kitten tries to pounce on the older ones in play and if they put him in his place?

Absolutely, it is past ok and wonderful. Your older cats are just teaching him manners, and how to cat. That's the one thing that you can't do for him.

 

[lavishsqualor]

Your older cats are just teaching him how to cat.

I love the way you put that! It's perfect.

 

[Mamanyt1953]

Thanks. It just seems to fit what is going on.