I have just brought home a new male kitten - he is 10 weeks old, active and playful, certainly likes people and likes a cuddle but is also a little fiesty and confident.

My 8 month old female kitten hasn't really taken to him at all. She is usually very gentle and sweet natured cat but active rather than a lap cat. However, she keeps beating him up, leaping on him to wrestle him but not in a playful way (ears back, a bit of biting and hissing and tail wagging). He, understandably, fights back. She has also been rolling and lying in the litter tray when i fill it with fresh litter as if staking her claim.

I don't know what to do - will they ever get on? Is this normal? Was I wrong to put two active characters together?

I really wanted a harmonious relationship not one of aggression. I know that she can get on beautifully with other cats as she was introduced a few months to my fifteen year old female cat who died a couple of months ago and they got on famously.

If anyone can help by giving advice on what to do or letting me know whether they have had similar experiences and if this is normal and likely to resolve I would be so grateful.

Thank you.

Heres our fact sheet at the ukrcc about how to introduce a new ragdoll into the home. I know it says ragdoll but it is the same for any cat/kitten really. hope its helpful

http://www.ukrcc.co.uk/Introductions.pdf

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It can take time to get 2 cats/kittens to make friends, or even tolerate each other x It's hard on both parties as obviously your girl has been at yours longer she'll now feel she has to share you which will be the main reason for not liking him so much xx

try to find positive things to do with them, like using treats or toys - maybe also a feliway plug in or two round the house to help promote a sense of calm x

they may not ever be the best of friends but they can certainly learn to find harmony with each other, just remember to give your girl as much fuss as always just to make sure she knows she is still your beautiful girl and that having another cat won't change that xx

good luck and hope everything settles nicely xx

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