How should I introduce my new kitten to my other cat?

Most kittens receive a hostile reception from other household pets, especially from another cat.  The other cat usually see no need for a kitten in the household and these feelings are reinforced if it perceives that special favoritism is being shown the kitten.  The existing cat must not feel that it is necessary to compete for food or attention.  The new kitten should have it's own food and food bowl and should not be permitted to eat from the other cat's bowl.  Although it is natural to spend time holding and cuddling the kitten, the existing cat will quickly sense that it is being neglected.  The new kitten needs lots of love and attention, but the existing cat should not be slighted.   In fact, the transition will be smoother if the existing cat is given more attention than normal.

The introduction period will usually last one to two weeks and will have one of three possible outcomes.

The existing cat will remain hostile to the kitten.  Fighting may occasionally occur, especially if both try to eat out of the same bowl at the same time.
This is an unlikely occurrence if competition for food and affection are minimized during the first few weeks.

The existing cat will only tolerate the kitten, hostility will cease, but the existing cat will act as if the kitten is not present.  This is more likely if the existing cat is very independent, has been an only cat for several years, or if marked competition occurred during the first few weeks.  The relationship is likely to be permanent.

Bonding will occur between the existing cat and the kitten.  They will play together, groom each other, and sleep near each other.  This is more likely to occur if competition is minimized and if the existing cat has been lonely for companionship.

When you bring a new kitten home, I suggest placing the kitten in a small area, like a laundry room or bathroom the first week, so it can get used to the new people, smells, noise, etc. of the household.  Only you will know when it is time to give the kitten a little larger space to explore.