How long to wait before introducing second rescue cat to the first?

[justfoundout2014]

We got a cat from the local rescue centre about a month ago. She has settled in well, though she likes to spend most of her time alone in the attic. She seems to spend most of the night in my bed though, which is nice.

The thing is, I would like another one. I grew up with two and for most of my adult life have had various combinations of cats and dogs, so feel a bit bereft with just one cat. Would it be cruel to introduce another cat now? My worry is that she may take off - started going out last week with no problems so far.

She has never been a stray so her history is known and her rescue sheet thingy stated 'not known' for whether she could live with other cats as she has never done so. Any advice or experiences would be great.

If it were me, I'd be worried that introducing another cat into the mix will make her take off, as she's been with you such a short time.

Personally, I would wait at least a year before thinking of introducing another cat. Let her settle, find her feet and bond to you.

If you had rescued two pals at the same time, that would have been ideal.

That's a difficult one. You need to go for a second cat that is definitely proven to like other cats. And if you do it sooner rather than later then I would put them both on house arrest again for three or four weeks, not just the new one, so she can't just take off.