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Expert: - 3/3/2010


Question
QUESTION: We just got our 2nd yesterday and our 4 yr old cat Zoey isnt to happy about her. Miaya is a 8 wk corder collie who was raised with cats. We also have a 10 mnth collie Cleo who use to follow Zoey around. I want to make sure Zoey knows shes still very much loved. What can i do with this dog to help Zoey ajust to her? This morning she ran away growling from Miaya growling (miaya didnt chase).

ANSWER: Hi Stacy,

As long as the new one doesn't chase her all you need is a little time. Make sure Zoey has a safe spot where the new pup can't get at her. You might want to read this. http://www.carepets.org/catsub/cat_pdf/intro_catdog.pdf

It has some good ideas. If Zoey got along good with the older one then she will get along with the new one. Just teach the new one that cats aren't toys. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Yea Zoey has her cat tree that she sits and watches the 2 play. Miaya has now started to bark at zoey and shes seems to want to follow her. I'm just worried that Zoey will scratch her (shes done it to cleo when she was young).I've told Miaya "NO" and gave her a tap on the nose when she dose. I feel bad cause i know she just wonder who is this other animal walking around and wont come and play

Answer
Hi Stacy,

She needs to know that cats are not toys for her to chase. And you don't want her to get hurt.  You can also use a water bottle to squirt her. You don't want her afraid of your hand. Try that and see how she does.Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

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Karen Craft

Expertise

I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!

Experience

I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care. Some thoughts to carry with you. A Cat's 10 Commandments My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it. Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you. If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so. Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.

Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.

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