Ragdoll Cat Forums

HAVE TWO CATS IN OUR HOME NOW. A SEAL LYNX BI-COLOR MALE 5 YEARS OLD, LEOPOLD VELINCIE (CZECK FOR 'THE GREAT') OF MISSTYDOLLS AND A 15 YEAR OLD WE ADOPTED AS A KITTEN FROM A FARM. DO TO HEALTH REASONS WE MAY NEED A FRIEND FOR "LEO". WOULD WE BE BETTTER WITH A KITTEN OR RETIRED BREEDER. ARE THERE ANY PROBLEMS WITH ADDING A "MATURE CAT TO OUR FAMILY?

wmbevill Wrote:HAVE TWO CATS IN OUR HOME NOW. A SEAL LYNX BI-COLOR MALE 5 YEARS OLD, LEOPOLD VELINCIE (CZECK FOR 'THE GREAT') OF MISSTYDOLLS AND A 15 YEAR OLD WE ADOPTED AS A KITTEN FROM A FARM. DO TO HEALTH REASONS WE MAY NEED A FRIEND FOR "LEO". WOULD WE BE BETTTER WITH A KITTEN OR RETIRED BREEDER. ARE THERE ANY PROBLEMS WITH ADDING A "MATURE CAT TO OUR FAMILY?

Hello and welcome,

There can be some difficulties with adding a mature cat, but at the same time there are many rewards. Do you have any other pets? Do you have children? How does Leo get along with the 15 year old kitty? Does it seem like he would like the full energy that a kitten would have, or has he slowed down and would like a buddy to cuddle up with?
I think many times a retired breeder or mature cat would work, but as any cat or Ragdoll, they all have their own personalities, so it would be best to try and find one that has a similar home enviroment to yours. Such as, if you have children, it would be best to find an older cat that has been raised with children. If you have other pets, such as a dog, it may be best to find one raised with dogs. Also, let the breeder or such know what Leo's personality is like, so hopefully you can get him a friend that will match with him well.
When bringing home a new kitten or even an adult, do leave room for slow introductions, as they will most likely act as if they hate each other in the beginning, but as they get more used to the smell and sounds, as well as getting to know one another, most times they will be friends in no time.
If you do choose to go with an adult, you can go with a retired breeder, (this will give you a chance to get more insight from the breeder, and may better match the personality for Leo). Also, there is Ragdoll Rescue, and many times they also will be fostered, so the foster family will have a chance to evaluate the cat, and make the best decision for him/her. I think rescuing one from a shelter would be a wonderful thing, but in your situation, it may be best to have as much information as you can on the specific cat you are thinking of adopting.
With kittens, there is a bit more room to socialize them and have a bit more affect on their personalities, but they also have a lot of energy, this may be what Leo would like, but you would be the best to decide which one would be best for him.
Best Wishes and please keep us updated!!

Purrs,
Stormi

We're in our 50s and only have the grandchildren several times a month. Thou Leo loves being around them and appears to be very protective of them. We have only the two cats, with Leo and Sammie. Leo at times appears to be in neeed of burning off some energy and runs thru the house like a buffalo. He gets along just fine with the older cat. As protective as he has been with our grandchildren, I'm sure he would be accepting of a kitten. I was thing that with both of us working that it my be easier in adopt a mature cat.

You have already been given some sound advice from Stormi (as she always does :o) ) As a general rule, when you already have adult cats, it is a 'safer' bet for the harmony of the house to add a kitten as they will not threaten the original status quo.
Good luck with your decision, and good to 'meet' you.

Quote:When bringing home a new kitten or even an adult, do leave room for slow introductions, as they will most likely act as if they hate each other in the beginning, but as they get more used to the smell and sounds, as well as getting to know one another, most times they will be friends in no time.

That's exactly what happened with my kitties.

At 5 yrs old Leo is still young, either a kitten or retiree (around similar age) would be suitable. With the right introduction all should go well. Alway remember to acknowledge Leo first for, pats hellos' and call for dinner, this lets him know he is top cat to the new cat and he will not feel replaced.