The Cats

GrayC decides the puppy smell blanket is ok.

We currently have 3 cats: Christopher, GrayC and Stitch. They all knew and loved Emmi but it certainly wasn't that way from the moment we brought her home. At that time, we had five indoor cats. Christopher is the only cat left from that group. Emmi had a lot of energy and the cats were not impressed. It took about 6 months for complete peace between everyone but once they accepted her, they loved her. Christopher was never as afraid of her as the others were. GrayC and Stitch were never afraid of Emmi. Both met her when they were living outside. Stitch left his home at our neighbor's and started visiting here and eventually moved over here. His owner thinks it was because of their new dog. I have observed that while Stitch was fine with Emmi, he definitely does not feel that way about other dogs who visit. I am hopeful that a puppy will not seem as threatening.

I asked Tracy if she could send me a scent item to give the cats a heads up that the puppy was coming. She sent me a blanket. Initially Stitch and GrayC sniffed it and were a bit leery but then both slept on it. Once Izzy came home, there were a lot of puffed up tails and a bit of hissing. I set up an area to contain Izzy and hoped it would help the cats realize they were safe. I am working on Izzy being calm around the cats. There will be no chasing of cats here. I think that was why Stitch moved here. Christopher was never very scared and touched noses with Izzy early on. The other cats get more comfortable and brave every day. GrayC and Stitch have even come in Izzy's area when she's asleep which is huge! Slow and steady is the best thing to introduce cats to a new puppy. It is extremely hard to undo a bad interaction. I think taking it slow is the key to introducing any new pet. Izzy could be affected for life if something bad happens at this age where she is so susceptible to experiences and I definitely don't want Stitch or GrayC traumatized. I reward Izzy for calm behavior around the cats and reward the cats for being near Izzy.

GrayC (on the table) and Stitch exploring the puppy area while Izzy sleeps.