Hi, we have an 18month old tort named Daisy, she's a house cat, and been with us since she was about 12 weeks old. As she's a house cat, and as we work through the day and sleep at night but otherwise are around mornings, evenings and weekends, we decided we have the time, space and energy to add another member to our family and it would do Daisy good.
So last night we collected and brought home an 8 week old kit (we've actually not decided on a name yet). We initially set the carrier down, closed, and allowed both cats to become aware of eachother. The kitten was fine. Daisy however was not. Stooped, growling and wide eyed she spent most of the time watching from a distance - sometimes grumbling - and should the kitten get anywhere near her she hisses and perhaps even runs off.
We've since set the kitten up in the spare room with everything it needs and will be taking things a lot slower, allowing both to adjust to the smells and sounds of living in the same space - albeit through a door. This is in line with many internet guides on introducing a new cat.
What's troubling us a little is Daisy appears no less phased than she was last night. She's keeping her distance from my partner (who's at home today - and one of us will be there to supervise every day until Tuesday) and being very grumpy. It's upsetting as we have such a close relationship with her. I maintained from the start that if there's a problem with Daisy and she doesn't get used to things, I will find a new home for the kitten.
Obviously not much time has passed, but does anyone have any tips for easing this transition for Daisy? She's that wound up she's not interested in toys or treats when she thinks there's any chance of the kitten being around.