Another Cat, or Not?

yeah!i think it is good to have another one again,because he can have a playmate if you adopped another one.

...At 14, any new animal introduced into his environment will be stressful for your cat. Something in a cage would be ok, but another animal that would walk free in his territory would be seen as a threat. ...Is there a reason you are now thinking of adopting another cat? It may be better to wait until this cat is gone before adopting another cat now. When that time comes, get two. ...Peace be with you. =(^;^)= Della

If the kitten is a female and you have her fixed, she should be fine and so should your male cat. Speaking for myself, I would consider adopting a homeless adult cat from a shelter. Don't get me wrong. I love kittens, but know that kittens have to be trained to use the litterbox and such. Plus, it would take some time for their personalities to develop. I'll never forget how my sister adopted a sweet black and white kitten -- the kitten was just a handful --- only to find that it grew into an obnoxious adult who snapped at everyone except her boyfriend! Moral of this story is that you're taking a chance adopting a kitten. At least, you would know an adult cat's personality from the get-go. Some adult cats are hyper, while others are gentle and laid back. Even more important, you have the satisfaction of having saved a cat's life by giving it a home and lots of love.

If your cat is 14, I would suggest not adopting a kitten but giving a home to an adult cat. Just like when people suggest some folks shouldn't get a puppy, but a dog that is already a couple years old who is past the "puppy stage." It doesn't have to be an old cat, but sometimes an older cat is more welcoming to a new cat that is more their speed. Temperment of the new cat is more important than actual age. (i.e. are they laid back, neurotic, etc.). A cat rescue or shelter may point you in the direction of an apropriate cat. Also, its not a male/female thing - individual cats are more territorial than others.

I would *not* adopt a kitten with a cat that old in your home. I'd suggest adopting an older cat, maybe between 8-14, from your local shelter or humane society. Older cats and dogs get put down often because everyone wants that cute, cuddly baby animal.