Needy elderly FIV cat coming to stay

[howmany]

My daughter adopted a elderly fiv cat several years ago ( they said he was at least 5 but 3 years on his black fur has started to have white hairs) . She is planning on leaving the country for a year or 2 and although she looked for other options it looks like Alfie is coming to stay. We have 4 other cats ( we recently lost one ) . I understand that bites are the only risk of transmitting it. I am more concerned about his age and the fact he is needy and cries when he can’t find you. Any tips for needy cat that might need to be separated for introductions We have an 10 year old who sleeps a lot and 3 , 4 years olds who spend most of their free time killing mice voles ect.

 

[di and bob]

Yes, the immediate problem is to keep fights from happening and deep bites occurring. Until introductions can be completed, keeping him in a carrier or dog pen might be a solution to letting the other cats get used to seeing him. If the others go outside have them do so and let him explore his surroundings when they are out. Of course, that means locking all doors so they don't accidentally get together. This will most likely be a drawn-out introduction because of the Fiv. He is going to cry, but would be most likely doing it without being locked up. Just visit as often as you can, and do let him out if at all possible at least once a day. take your cues on how they are all acting. An attack can happen quickly though. growling, hissing, and swatting are all normal. Make sure everyone has an escape route, and high up places to get away. All the luck, and bless you for taking this on!

 

[FeebysOwner]

Can you set aside a spare bedroom for him so that he doesn't have to be confined to a crate/or carrier? Along with a bedroom as a safe room, your daughter should bring all of his possession with him, for the sake of familiarity. It might even be wise for her to leave behind a few worn, unwashed pieces of clothes, just to help the initial transition into your home. If he likes to hear the TV or music, you could play some for him a few times a day, just to help relax him a bit. And, of course, spend as much time as you can with him.

Unless he is overly aggressive to begin with (or, one of your cats are), a standard introduction process should work, and allow you to assess how things will go and how long it might take to get him settled in and your cats comfortable with him. Here is a TCS article on proper introductions, in case that might help.
How To Successfully Introduce Cats: The Ultimate Guide – TheCatSite Articles