Hi There,

Calicos tend to have a lot of attitude......we call it CalicoTUDE in the chatrooms. I don't mean this in a negative way, just to let you know that they can be a challenge to deal with. I love them dearly, and had a wonderful calico for 19 years

I think that most single cats will react strongly to a newcomer. Cats aren't the most sociable animals and can be very territorial. Your setup sounds perfect though. The cats haven't actually met, yet they know that the other is there. It's always best to keep a newcomer isolated for a couple of weeks, anyway.

I commend you, not only for taking in this precious baby, but for trying to find his owner. Many people wouldn't even think of having a vet check for a microchip in a stray cat.

One thing that is very much in your favor is that an orange male will tend to be a very mellow, laid back cat. I know this probably sounds odd, but in many cases the color of a kitty does make a difference! Just like calicos and torties tend to have TUDE!

What I would recommend is trying to give both cats lots of attention, and extra for the resident calico. If she likes special treats this is a good time to give them. She has to know that even though her territory has been "invaded" she is still the number one cat in the house. You might want to try using a towel to wipe down one kitty, then wiping down the other and leaving the towel first with one, than the other. I would start with the calico, as she will want to be the top cat. If she likes to play, and has several toys, you can also trade off the toys, and spend extra time playing with her as well. Cat beds can easily be switched also.

My feeling is that this is likely to work out over time. You will have a problem if the male wants to fight for the top cat spot, but chances are that the calico will put him in his place. In most multi-cat households, a female is usually the top kitty anyway. Here it's a tortie that is in the top spot.

Take care, and please keep us updated on how things go!

PHKitkat

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