The Remodel

The remodel

Having a huge x-pen around our family room wasn't working for any of us. Izzy often jumped on it, and it wasn't secure enough to leave her in. She also got her toe stuck in it and if you have never heard a puppy cry in pain and fear, it is awful. The cats would jump into the area and then be stuck. We couldn't put something for them to get on to get over the pen as Izzy is a little mountain goat and would have got up on it too. Lastly, we were tired of tripping over it. So, after some planning, I ordered some pet gates, a new cat tree and Dave went to Jerry's for a shelf. The new tree and shelf are for the cats to be able to get in and out on that side of the room and to be able to hang out on the tall safe they love to be on. That gate also has a cat door so they can get out if need be. On the other side, there is a gate between the family room and the kitchen. The cats can simply use the desk to go in and out. There is still an x-pen to keep Izzy from the mantle and the shelves with books and things she loves to chew on like my cat and dog figures. So, while we still have a lot of barriers, it feels more sturdy and open.

The cat tree and shelf Dave put up so the cats can stay up high to get to their favorite hangout.

Where the shelf ends up.

Another view of our handywork.

The cats are already more comfortable coming into the area. Both cats came in last night while Izzy was with me on the couch. Stitch and GrayC will both approach her now. Izzy has given them both licks and GrayC rubs on her and even goes under her. Izzy does so well but starts to get excited and she then gets hissed at. I think the cats will be coming in with her more frequently, so my next step is to have her on a leash and attached to the couch so the cats can come in but she can't chase them. I am definitely seeing progress and am fine with taking it slow so Izzy doesn't get hurt and the cats become comfortable.

Stitch exploring and Izzy watching. What a good girl!