Hello
I always wanted a playmate for bubbles and as it is kitten season, I put note out at the local pet-shop for a young cat. Bubbles is 10 months old and he not only needs loads of playtime, but we are both out of the house most of the day, and I thought he would appreciate a playmate.
I had a phone call today from a lady who just moved house and found out that pets arent allowed in her new home, so she has to get rid of her cat. It is the same age as bubbles, a black female, spayed.
Now my question. As they are both quite young, do I have to go through the whole introduction thing, or can we just let them together and they will be fine ? Bubbles is quite sociable and seems to get along fine with the neighbours cats, the new female has never been outside, but did grow up with 2 dogs. Bub obviously this is his home, and I am not sure how he will react to another cat. He also hasnt had the snips yet, and I don't want him starting to spray the house (he only does the garden at the moment).
The lady is bringing the cat round tomorrow. Can we just let them together and try it out, and if it doesn't work, we do the introduction thing ? Or is it better to be safe than sorry ?
Also how about the going out thing. How long do I have to keep her indoors, before letting her out (meaning how long will it be before she knows this is her home and to come back her for food and cuddles ?)
I never had 2 cats. I always had loners before who wouldn't tolerate oteh cats, so this is all new to me....
Cheers
Mad
I always wanted a playmate for bubbles and as it is kitten season, I put note out at the local pet-shop for a young cat. Bubbles is 10 months old and he not only needs loads of playtime, but we are both out of the house most of the day, and I thought he would appreciate a playmate.
I had a phone call today from a lady who just moved house and found out that pets arent allowed in her new home, so she has to get rid of her cat. It is the same age as bubbles, a black female, spayed.
Now my question. As they are both quite young, do I have to go through the whole introduction thing, or can we just let them together and they will be fine ? Bubbles is quite sociable and seems to get along fine with the neighbours cats, the new female has never been outside, but did grow up with 2 dogs. Bub obviously this is his home, and I am not sure how he will react to another cat. He also hasnt had the snips yet, and I don't want him starting to spray the house (he only does the garden at the moment).
The lady is bringing the cat round tomorrow. Can we just let them together and try it out, and if it doesn't work, we do the introduction thing ? Or is it better to be safe than sorry ?
Also how about the going out thing. How long do I have to keep her indoors, before letting her out (meaning how long will it be before she knows this is her home and to come back her for food and cuddles ?)
I never had 2 cats. I always had loners before who wouldn't tolerate oteh cats, so this is all new to me....
Cheers
Mad