Hi Jennifer,

My Panther came from a litter of only 5, and she was a little anxious at
first.  I had another young cat at the time, so my situation was different.
I was dealing with introduction problems as well.  Nevertheless, because
Cheetah (existing cat) energetically rejected Panther at first, Panther had
to spend some time alone.

I have found that cats from larger litters play more easily on their own,
so perhaps a collection of soft toys would help.  Your kitten could choose
to love them and sleep with them, or 'kill' them.  The companion toys could
be catnip scented, as this would encourage happy and relaxed play.  Let a
few toys remain neutral, so he can 'kill' them.  When he plays with his toys
and seems settled, praise him, then tell him you'll be busy now, but not far
away.  Gradually stretch your periods of business/absence so he gets used to
the idea that you can't always be there.  When you return to him, love him
to bits and praise him if he's been good.

I always tell my cats when I've got to be busy, or go out.  If I'm busy at
home - doing accounts or needlework - I let them stay provided they let me
work.  Sometimes it isn't safe for them to stay, so they have to entertain
themselves.  They now understand this and are happy to play or snooze near
me when they can, and cope alone at other times.

It may sound hard  -  and be harder!  -  but sometimes you may just have to
put kitty down and walk away.  If you don't, he'll never learn that
essential level of independence that the wild mother cat teaches her young
as she gradually withdraws.

As to getting another kitten, it may very well help, but it depends on your
circumstances .. whether you're working .. whether you can afford to double
your vet bills .. and so on.  IF you decide to get another kitten, my
experience suggests that you wait until this kitten has been doctored.  He
will then be (slightly) less territorial, less inclined to roam due to hurt
feeling at the intruder and more submissive to you.   Also consider a female
kitten for your second cat.  Many people cope well with two males, but many
more have real difficulty keeping two territorial males in one home.

Best of luck with your furry friend.  Do let us know how you get on.
Spider

hello , i do cat rescue and one of the things that works with the
little kittens when they mis their moms or siblings is getting  them a
super soft stuffed animal , they relate that to a familiar sence of
warmth and safety . make sure the stuffed animal is not tiny and try a
baby blanket , those work wonders , but the stuffed animal has always
worked for me , takes the seperation anxiety to a lower level

oh and i forgot , good luck with your new baby kitten