Hi, everyone. I love this sub and hope this post is okay. I lost my 19-year-old, Pixie, in August, and I started volunteering at a shelter because I wanted to help and didn't think I'd adopt for a while. Pixie's loss has been devastating, and I will always miss her dearly. While volunteering, this little kitty got me good, and I signed paperwork to adopt her today.

Dolly (cat tax included) is coming home tomorrow after her spay surgery, and I talked to the staff about adopting a friend, but they advised to wait until she is comfortable.

She's 3 years old, and I am wondering if anyone has had success with adding a senior kitty to a home. There is another cat at the shelter who is 12 and who has lived with other cats before. She was surrendered with her sister, who was unfortunately adopted alone. I heard she is struggling at the shelter and is not eating and lying around.

I completely understand it depends on the specific animals and there is no guarantee cats will like each other, but I'm considering adopting the senior once Dolly is settled and I can see what her energy levels are. I would go slow with intros and keep them separate for a while.

What do you think? Would it be unfair to the senior, and is 3 vs. 12 years too much of a difference with energy?

If anyone is in Western PA and wants to consider adopting the sweet senior kitty, I can provide the shelter info privately. I'm also going to try giving her some attention this weekend while volunteering.