New Kitten - Male or Female

[toby99]

Hi � We have two female cats aged 11 and 3. They use to tolerate each other until our eldest cat died recently (also female). Now they will not even stay in the same room as each other, growl and occasionally fight if they get too close. It was as if our older cat kept the peace. My daughter cannot get over the loss of her cat and we are thinking of getting her a kitten to see if that will help. The 11 yr old cat just likes to be left alone, but I am concerned that the 3yr old would attack it. She is a lovely cat, but she shocked us recently when she attacked my parent's puppy without any warning, ripping its ear and scratching its face quite badly. My question is if we do decide to get one do you think it is better to get a male cat rather than a female, as they may accept it as they may not feel? thanks


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[persianlady]

Males are usually much friendlier than females. I have had many cats over the years and experience has taught me that females are very contrary. I have only had one exception to this and that is the female I have now. She is an absolute sweetheart. She is so friendly and gentle. She can stick up for herself when she has to though. I have two males who are both very friendly. They are territorial in the garden, and will chase off the neighbours cats, but they love each other, and play a lot. I have found boys in general to be much friendlier to each other than girls. The boys dont have a problem with girls, it has always been the girls who seem to be intolerant of any other cats. I would not get another female unless I could be sure it was as nice natured as my present girl. I will stick with boys.

[toby99]

Thanks Persianlady, I thought I had got a boy last time and it was only when I took her to the Vet for her vaccines that I found out he was a she. The cat I have just lost, was beautiful and very motherly, so she was very accepting, but I can't see this new cat being quite so accomodating! Maybe a boy would be less of a threat?

[Ava77]

I'd agree with persianlady on that one, boys are more affectionate - although I've always ended up with girls! I wouldn't worry too much about the other two, most likely they are vying for position as top-cat now that the dominant cat has gone. They'll settle once they've established a new pecking order.