How best to introduce two cats to same household?

[Debra Jonasz]

My mom passed away a few days ago. She had a young male cat, Garfield. I will be moving into my parent's home shortly when my dad moves into assisted living. My cat, Molly, has been with me for over 12 years & I consider her an "only child". I tried introducing an older male cat years ago which did not work out. How best to try to integrate these two cats? I refuse to give up Molly just as much as I refuse to give up Garfield. Molly is older & smaller than Garfield. Both have had their front claws removed. Any suggestions would be most welcome!

 

[Rebecca]

You could try showing them to each other in a place that is not familiar to either of them. A cat might include familiar ground as part of its territory, making it defensive. I would let them see each other from a distance first so they are not surprised by the sudden appearance of another cat. Try to make sure they are calm before moving them closer together.