Sneaky Fostering

Here's an amusing, but devious proposition.  My shelter just received the sweetest, cutest kitten (estimated 12-14 weeks) ever.  An associate pointed him out to me, and he's a living doll.  Here's the devious part:  I have a sweetheart of a three-year old British Shorthair who I think needs a buddy.  The problem is that my wife is nervous about having a new cat because she fears one or the other will start marking if nervous.  I keep assuring her that this behavior is rare even with nervous cats.  The associate said, "Why not foster him?"  That's sneaky because I know my wife won't be able to give him up!  Any advice on what I can tell her to ease her fears?  (I also think she fears screwing up a good thing since Little Button is a very happy although sometimes lonely cat.)

I think fostering is a wonderful idea! Especially if you think your current furbaby would enjoy a buddy. We use this with our rescue (actual we use this approach with all adoptions...like a 2 week trial run.)

If things work out, great! If not, you provided a kitten with love and some time away from the shelter. It really is a win for everyone. Plus, you can give the shelter feedback on how the kitten reacts in a true home setting.

As for easing your wife's fears...
*Most* cats are not going to have a complete meltdown. Yes, there is likely to be some hissing, etc; especially if your current cat hasn't been around other cats in a while. Just make sure to follow proper introduction techniques and don't rush things. Plus, you will finally know whether Little Button really does need a buddy.

If you follow the cat introductions ideas the cats will do really well.  It does take some time and patience but it can all work out.  I doubt there will be urine marking if the cats are neutered.  You can try some feliway adapters which really help.  Here is a link to cat introductions

http://www.thecatsite.com/a/introducing-cats-to-cats