The Pet Owners Corner

Dear Cattalker:
Do the diffusers that are advertised really help calm a cat down? – From Mary S.

Dear Mary S: Yes, the diffusers that you see on line and in pet stores do help with anxiety and some behavior problems. Not every cat will respond to them, but it is certainly worth a try. They are especially useful for hissing and challenging behavior toward other cats, and for inappropriate spraying. You can locate diffusers under several brand names on Amazon, Chewy, and at pet stores such as Petco and PetSmart.

 

Dear Cattalker:
We are thinking of adopting a second cat. How do we introduce the new cat into our home?   – From Dee Z.

Dear Dee Z: I advise placing the new cat in a “safe” room; that is, a room that is safe from cords, plants or anything a kitty could get into and cause harm to itself. In that room put food, litter, bed and toys. Keep your current cat out of that room. They might meet with paws under the door, which is fine. Once the new kitty is familiar with your other cat, is eating well and using the litter pan, you can gradually introduce your resident feline. Simply open the door, and under supervision, watch the cats interact. Keep the safe room door open so the new cat can go back in if it wants to. There may be some “large tail discussions” and even some hissing. Unless there is aggression, just allow this to happen. After a short period of time, return the new kitty back to the safe room. Repeat this meeting for several days. When you are not available to watch, keep the new pet in the safe room. Once they are interacting well together, you can move litter, food etc. to where you want it and you can now enjoy your family of cats.

 

Pet Owners Corner is designed to answer common questions that pet owners may have. Answers will be simple and straight forward. No questions are too silly to ask; if you have that question, others probably do as well. No medical advice will be given because diagnosing and treating is not possible without a proper veterinary examination.

You may send your questions to: Cattalker2024@gmail.com