Expert: Karen Craft - 7/7/2007

Question
Dear Karen,

I share my life with Olivia, my 8-year-old cat, whom I rescued from the Humane Society. Just a few months ago, I had to have my other cat, another female but younger, put down because of physical/social/neurological/behavioral issues. She was suffering so much, and I couldn't let it go on. It's likely going to end up as the biggest regret in my life, but I and my vet and the Humane Society saw no other option.

Since then, Olivia has been alone, which does not seem to bother her, even though I am gone for 10 hours each weekday. I stay with her every weekend and give her treats and a lot of attention.

I'm worried that Olivia might be getting bored; she and the other female cat NEVER bonded; from day one, Olivia hissed at her, and it didn't stop for seven years. But now I'm thinking of getting a parrot, with whom I can care for, interact, and who may possibly be of some interest to Olivia, obliterating much of what I perceive as her boredom.

In your experience, is it a good idea to bring a new parrot into the household at this point?(Olivia is a domesticated, spayed, indoor cat.) I would like to have a bird, but I wonder if it would make Olivia feel territorial and jealous.

I realize every cat's personality is different, but if you could just give me a ballpark answer, I'd much appreciate!


All Best,
Catherine  

Answer
Hi Catherine,

Speaking from experience,(13 cats, one quaker parrot and two finches), your cat won't be territorial or jealous. What she will be is like any other cat...thinking free lunch. All my cats had a go at Baby. They were lucky she is a small parrot. Each one got bit on the paws by her when they tried to get her. They now leave her alone. The finches I've had to put up near the ceiling with a pulley because they figured out they can't hurt them.

I don't really think getting a parrot will matter one way or another to Olivia. If you do get one don't get a big one or they can really hurt your cat. If you think she is lonely then try another cat. Get a kitten, they are easier to introduce to an older cat. Also read a few articles about how to introduce them first. This will make things go a lot easier. Or you could just leave the TV on. I find this keeps my cats happy. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen