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Cats/Can't we all just get along?

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Expert: - 6/26/2007


Question
I just brought a new kitten into our home; she's a 2 month old active little fuzz ball. But our 5 year-old male is having difficulties accepting his new companion. He often approaches her to sniff and when she turns around, he hisses at her! We're also moving to a new house on Friday! Any ideas??

Answer
Hi Kathryn,

The kitten is new and in your older ones territory. Actually they don't sound too bad for new intros. Time will take care of the spats. Give them a week or two.
But I think you will have problems with the move and the two of them. I would suggest that when you get to the new house try to keep them in a room where it will be quiet.
The older guy is going to be the one who is going to be the most upset. Watch out for him. The new one should take his mind off the move, If you have any problems write back and I'll see what I can do for you. 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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