I have a Maine Coon cat and would like to adopt a new Maine kitten. My cat is a male (1,5 years old) very friendly and playful.

Is it better to adopt a male of female kitten and what kind of problems should I expect after adpting a kitten.

How many litter boxes will I need.

How to foolproof the situation to avoid mistakes?

-- Anonymous, July 18, 2000

Answers

Just one experience.....We got our second MC in January. They are 6 months apart in age - both female. I too agonized over what sex to get and decided that I believed in what one person said to me - it really doesn't make much of a difference - what matters is their personalities - just like people. Unfortunately there is no way to tell for sure how their personalities will mesh, but I think given time MOST will be able to live together. Our first kitty, Mallorie, is very docile and aloof. We picked Nikki because she was more outgoing and loves to play fetch and always wants attention. We kept them separated in two different rooms for about 2 days letting them smell each other under the door. There was some hissing and growling from Mallorie for a day or two, but we kept a close eye on them and kept them separated when we couldn't be there to supervise for a few more days. They love each other now. They kiss each other and chase each other and like to wrestle. They play bite (even go for the throat sometimes) when they wrestle, but they never hurt each other. I know Mallorie loves the company when we are at work and when we take vacation once a year. Some people say to keep them separated much longer, but we just trusted our instincts with them, knowing Mallorie is not an aggressive cat. I also think with an older cat you may need more time before introducing. We thought we were going to be able to ween them to one litter box, but Mallorie took to guarding the litter box and then began going just outside the box. If she saw Nikki going in the box and she wasn't guarding at the time she would run toward her so fast and then just stop inches from her and stare at her until she was through. Quite intimidating, but Nikki wasn't too scared of her. I think she knew she wouldn't really hurt her. We went back to two and although Mallorie kept guarding the boxes for awhile she eventually stopped. They are quite entertaining.

-- Anonymous, July 18, 2000

I have four Maine Coons, having just added two new kittens this past week. I have both male and female, and it doesn't really matter.

For each cat you have, you need at least one litter box. I have ten cats total, and eleven litter boxes.

Just keep them separated to begin with, letting them get to know each other from oposite sides of the door. They will stick their paws under the door and get to know each other this way. It really makes your new baby feel more secure and avoids early confrontations.

Good luck with your new one.

-- Anonymous, July 19, 2000

I think that this is a great thing to entertain.

-- Anonymous, January 07, 2001