Pat W. asked Amy how to facilitate the introduction of her new cat, 18 month old Calypso, to her longtime resident cat, 11 year old Coco. Coco had received radioactive iodine therapy for hyperthyroidism in January, and during her absence, her 19 YO companion, Raleigh, had passed away. Pat had thought Coco would enjoy having a younger cat to play with since Coco had previously been a playful cat (typical of torties.) Although the cats had made some progress, recently Coco had shown increased stress resulting from Calypso's efforts to play. Amy responded,
The details you've provided, as well as steps taken to solve the issue, tell me you're already an incredibly savvy cat person (purr-son!). You've done so much RIGHT that readers can learn great information just from your question. But even though you've addressed many of these things, my answer will cover the cat's physical and emotional health, as well as traits of instinct, using the H.I.S.S. Test to help figure out what's going on and find solutions and put this in perspective for others.
Photo Credit: © Pat W.
Please read Amy's expert advice for bringing these two cats together in a peaceful relationship. Other related content from Amy Shojai, CABC:
Ask Amy Cat Behavior Question Submission Form
How to Introduce a New Cat
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