this post was submitted on 06 Apr 2024
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I have a 4 year old male cat. What kind of cat should I get as a companion for him? (lemmy.blahaj.zone)
submitted 7 months ago by Kit@lemmy.blahaj.zone to c/cats@sh.itjust.works
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I have a 5 year old cat that I adopted 3 years ago, and I'd like to get him a companion but I'm struggling to identify the characteristics I should look for. Can anyone offer advice?

He's a rugged old soul. He loves playing with my 2 year old dog but otherwise just lounges around nearby but not touching - typical Russian Blue. He does try to clean and cuddle the dog, but the pup doesn't understand and runs away. He was actively cuddling with other cats at the shelter when I adopted him so I think he'll do well with a housemate.

I've met a few shelter cats this week but I'm stressing about identifying which would be a good fit. Are male and female both a good bet? Would it be best to get a kitten, an older cat, or somewhere in between? Playful or extremely lazy, or a lap cat?

I know I'll be happy with any choice, so I'm mostly focused on finding a good match for my Russian Blue. Thanks.

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[–] jake_jake_jake_@lemmy.world 8 points 7 months ago* (last edited 7 months ago) (1 children)

we have adopted cats younger than most shelters will adopt, and and as old as 6 months. best is old enough to be fixed or already fixed as some shelters will do

[–] Kit@lemmy.blahaj.zone 6 points 7 months ago (2 children)

I took your advice

[–] jake_jake_jake_@lemmy.world 3 points 7 months ago (1 children)

awesome! if you have not read a lot about introducing cats and have never added cats to a household before, i would do some searching online, it's not advanced but you may find some tid-bits that make it easier and smoother. if you have space to isolate the kitten and resident cat, separate food water and litter, do that for a while. it is EXCELLENT if they are sniffing under the door and not hissing, but it is okay if they are hissing too, you will just need to separate for a bit longer. also remember that when they are in the same room, and playing, there will be hisses and "fights." it may seem like it gets crazy now and then but that kitten will learn boundaries from it. in general, when it comes to introductions, my wife and I have had cats that took months to get along and one that only took a day before they were in the group, but we find them all cuddling now!

[–] Kit@lemmy.blahaj.zone 2 points 7 months ago

Thank you for the advice!! This is my first experience with a kitten so this was a godsend. I have him quarantined in my office and he's doing better than expected - he hid under the couch for a few hours but he got up to use the litter box and is now passed out in the middle of the room. He and the dog keep playing in the 1" gap under the door, so that's a good sign. My older cat hasn't prodded yet, though. I'm gonna take it slow and see how things go.