Hopefully, the male has been neutered and your female has been spayed. That problem out of the way, the new kitty needs a "safe room" to acclimate to the new environment. Usually, it is a kitten who is planning to be introduced to an older cat, but this is reversed. A safe room for the older kitty could be an issue. But, I would start there. The room can be a bathroom or spare bedroom. Put food and water, cat bed, litter box in there and confine the kitty in the room. We don't know if the new kitty will hide or be stressed out. But, spend time with the kitty in there, talking, and starting the bonding process. Bring toys and treats to help the process along. Most introductions can take a couple of weeks. Once your male has de-stressed and shows confidence, I'd start swapping out scents. You can rub a towel or blanket on the cats and exchange them with the cats. When it comes time to introduce the cats, I would not put them down together. Hold your female and let the male sniff. There may be hissing and growling, which is perfectly normal. Do not put them down in front of each other the first time. The male appears to be highly territorial and your girl may not want him in her territory! Once they seem okay with each other, you can feed them in the same general area and try to engage them each in play while being together. You will never leave these two alone until they are good buddies!!!
Know that some owners have put two cats together immediately and things have gone super well. Other times, it has not and you do not want to traumatize your girl and have her confidence damaged as then behavioral issues start.
I commend you for taking in a second kitty. I hope it all works out for you. You will need patience and time. Every cat has a different personality -- and it may be your girl who does not want a brother.
We are here if you need us.
|