Articles | Cat Pause ~ Cat Blog

How to Introduce a New Cat to the Old Cat

June 16, 2019 By Joi

“What is this??! Why is it here??!!” – Svenn (right) about Alexa (left)

Guest Post by Jackie

As I am sure you already know, cats can be extremely territorial animals. When the subject of introducing one cat to another comes up, people often just say to put them in the same room together until they work it out. While this works sometimes, it’s pretty risky and can just as easily start a fight. Introducing a new cat to your old cat’s space triggers their territorial nature and can cause cat fights. So, instead of letting chance take care of it, here are some tips to make the integration go as smoothly as possible.

Keep them separated at first

You cannot just throw two cats together and expect them to become best friends. They need to be introduced slowly over a period of time. At first, it helps to keep the new cat separate in its own room so it can get used to its surroundings. This room should have everything the cat needs; litter box, food, and water. Try to make it so the two cats can smell and hear each other. You could feed them both by the door, for example. The cats will learn to associate the smell and sound of the other cat with a happy experience. After about 2 to 3 days, switch the rooms and let each cat get used to the other space.

It also helps to introduce each cat’s smell to the other. You can do this by rubbing a towel on one cat to pick up its pheromones and hanging the towel in the other room for the other cat to investigate at their own pace.

It’s also wise to give them their own litter boxes to avoid any unnecessary drama around the litter box. You should still invest in a multi cat litter to combat the extra smell that comes with an additional cat.

Let the cats see each other

By this point, your cats should be aware of the existence of the other cat beyond the door. If they aren’t hissing and growling through the bottom of the door, you can go ahead and visually introduce them. A screen door or a baby gate makes a nice see-through barrier that lets your cats see each other but still remain physically separate. Continue feeding and playing with both of them in view of the other so both cats continue to associate positive experiences with the image of the other cat.

Let them meet face to face

The next step is to introduce them face to face with supervision. Open up the barrier between the two space and let the cats investigate each other. By this point, they should be used to the sight, smell, and sound of another cat in the house. Don’t worry if they initially ignore each other or hiss a bit at each other; it takes some time for them to realize they are a friend and not a foe. Keep an eye on them so you can break up any potential scuffles. If you notice them being very aggressive or skittish, then it may be that the match just won’t work out. It also helps to give them something to do. Putting two cats in an empty room alone is a quick way to start a cat fight.

Let them out together home alone

At first, it is a good idea to keep the cats separated whenever you are not home. If the in-person meetings seem to be going smoothly then you can take the next step and leave them out together unsupervised. Make sure you give them ample time around each other and that you know how they interact.

Final Thoughts

Introducing a new cat to your home can have a big effect on your old cat. If not done properly, they can get off on the wrong foot and never be comfortable around each other. That is why the key thing is to take your time while introducing the cats. Don’t rush it and do not try to force their interaction. Doing so can damage any chance of them getting along in the future.

Plush Fabric-Lined Cat Condo…. Oooh La La

March 23, 2019 By Joi

The Trixie Fabric-Lined Cat Condo (pictured here) is a heckuva lot of fun just waiting for a lucky, pampered, and most of all loved cat to enjoy. Any good cat parent knows that keeping a cat entertained and engaged is good for her physically, mentally, and emotionally. Providing your cat with novel, new, and exciting opportunities keeps her on her toes… and adorable toes, at that.

I love everything about this cat condo – its great looks, reasonable price, and the many opportunities for a cat to explore and enjoy. She can even hide out inside and plan her sneak attack.

We all know how much cats love the sneak attack.

I also love that it’s compact and close to the ground, meaning that even the clumsiest cat will be perfectly safe from harm.

One of my cats, Alexa, fits this description perfectly. Even she couldn’t cause a disaster with this cat furniture.

When it comes to keeping things fun and exciting for indoor cats, we like to rotate cat toys, scratching posts, and even cat furniture. It makes each of their treasured possessions last longer but, more importantly, it keeps things fresh and new for them – something outside cats are awarded with, by God, on a daily basis.

We have to provide the fun and variety for inside babies.

Features:

Wrapped in soft plush inside and out
Condo lined in plush fabric
Natural sisal scratching surface
Dangling plush toys inside

Product Description:

The Topi Cat Condo will provide endless opportunities for your cats to play, scratch, explore or just relax. This stylish piece of cat furniture combines the best of both worlds: a condo hideaway and a scratching surface. Felines can sharpen their claws on the large scratching surface wrapped in durable sisal instead of on your furniture or carpet. If a nap or a place to hide is in order, the cat can crawl inside the kitty condo which is covered in plush fabric both inside and out, making it the perfect retreat. Feeling a little spunky? Taunt the plush toys suspended inside, sure to peak your little hunter’s interest. Suitable for cats of all ages and activity levels. One year warranty. Color: chocolate brown. Dimensions (inches): 18 x 12 x 13; condo opening 6 x 6. Weight: 3 pounds.

This Cat Furniture with Scratching Surface is available on Amazon – click through for a closer look and more information.

Cat Scratching Post with Hanging Butterfly Toy

January 29, 2019 By Joi

Well if this doesn’t look like hours of cat fun, I’m not sure what does! The Cat Scratching Post with Hanging Butterfly Toy is just the thing a house cat needs to stay active, engaged, and amused.

I love the sturdy base as much as I do the adorable butterfly toy. Scratching posts aren’t just wonderful for your cat(s), your furniture and door frames will appreciate the diversion!

A fun distracting toy and reliever provides a healthy outlet for your cat’s natural hunting instincts
Made from safe, non-toxic materials, non-harmful sisal fiber wrapping, perfect to stimulate cat’s natural habits
Cats will rather sharp claws on it instead of on your home décor or carpet
Interactive playful toy with butterfly on the top; platform covered with equally scratching material
Very easily to assemble and disassemble; space- saving size; portable and detachable parts with unique design

See Cat Scratching Post with Hanging Butterfly Toy for more information!

Cat Grooming Arch: Ideal for Grooming AND Hard to Reach Itches!

December 14, 2018 By Joi

The Cat Grooming Arch, pictured here, is a favorite with our cats!

As I mentioned in a previous post, Hannah loved her Cat Grooming Arch. When I wasn’t available (brush in hand) to groom her, she was able to brush up beside and underneath her arch to get rid of loose hair or (more importantly) to scratch an itch.

Fact is, I think she used it most of the time simply because it felt good!

This Cat Grooming Arch is very similar to the one Hannah had – in fact, only the base looks different. This particular one also comes with a bag of catnip, which we all know would make any cat’s day complete.

I actually need to order one of these arches for Alexa. She has very long hair and when she tries to groom herself, it leads to awful hairballs. I hate to see the agony they cause her and know this particular arch could help eliminate most, if not all, of the problem.

From Amazon:

Brushes your kitty’s fur for you
Great for cats that shed
Your cat will love the massage-like bristles
Carpet pad is easy to clean
Measures 14.5 inches tall

See Cat Grooming Arch for more information. I have it on good authority that your cat(s) will get a lot of blissful use out of this arch.

Beautiful, sweet Hannah – I’ll always miss her!

How to Deal With Cats Who Pee in all the Wrong Places and Even Wet the Bed…. Yours!

October 8, 2018 By Joi

Cats are peculiar, wonderful, amazing, adorable, intelligent, peculiar, entertaining, precious, beautiful, peculiar, and then some. Did I mention they were peculiar? Because they most certainly are.

You could have 50 cats in the course of your life (if you’re lucky) and odds are no two will ever be quite the same in temperament, personality, and manners. What’s even more fascinating to me is that you could (at any one given time), have three from the same litter and each will probably be completely original. They may look alike, but few ever act alike.

Many people experience, firsthand, just how different and peculiar cats can be when it comes to their pottying behaviors and habits. I hear from people often who have cats that get pretty creative with their peeing habits. Some cats, who have a diversion to litter boxes, have been known to prefer bathroom rugs, dirty clothes (these are the lucky cat parents, in my opinion), furniture, and even beds.

If your cat pees anywhere other than the litter box, you first need to take a long, hard look at the litter box.

Is it clean? Litter boxes need to be cleaned several times a day – not just once and certainly not once every other day.
If you have more than one cat, do you have more than one litter box? One box per two cats is a good ratio. Cats are very particular about their “business” and don’t want to share their sacred spot with too many others.
Is the litter box easy to get in and out of? Some cats (whether it’s due to age, weight, or a previous injury) have trouble getting in and out of high-sided litter boxes. Your solution may be as simple as a shorter box.
Is it in a safe, quiet place? Many cats are uncomfortable using a litter box that’s near loud noises (tv, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers….). In fact, if the cat in question has her “accidents” consistently in one place of the home, the location may give you a clue. We had a little girl (cat, of course!) who insisted on peeing on bathroom rugs. After I answered the two questions above with a, “Yes,” “Yes,” and a, “Yes,” I asked myself, “What is it about the bathrooms that she’d find more attractive for peeing than the litter box?” The answer was fast and furious – they’re quieter. The litter boxes were in another part of the house, fairly near ever-present kitchen activity and well-within earshot of ever-playing televisions. Being a very timid cat, by nature, she was apparently more comfortable in quieter settings. When you come to this type of realization, you may have to get another litter box and put it in the quietest place you can find for the rebel cat.
Some cats may not like a hooded litter box – most cats use whatever is available but I have heard of people having to simply remove the hood.

Dr. Elsey’s Cat Attract Litter (pictured at the right) is one you may want to try if you have a cat who has forgotten how the whole litter box thing works (or if you’re training a new cat). I’d definitely recommend clicking through and reading all about it. It sounds absolutely amazing… the thing that sold me on it was the first review at the bottom of the page.

This litter sounds like the very thing that could solve MANY cat litter problems.

If the litter box situation passes inspection, make absolutely certain the cat is healthy.

A quick trip to the vet can make certain your cat doesn’t have an underlying health problem.
Often, for reasons we humans may never understand, having a cat spayed or neutered solves the problem. Again, I have no idea why – maybe it calms them down a bit.. who knows? But I’ve seen cats suddenly accept litter boxes again once they were spayed or neutered. Seems the problem is often fixed once they are!

Bed-Wetting Cats

Now, we cat lovers know that they aren’t always the most well-mannered “toddlers.” However, when they resort to peeing on their parent’s bed, that takes mischievousness to a whole other level! While getting to the bottom of litter, litter box, or temperament or health issues, there are a few things to do to save your sanity and your bedtime:

Buy a large waterproof shower curtain liner. Use it directly on top of your covers (if you don’t mind the looks of it). The “feel” of the liner turns off most cats – and, IF the bed-wetter decides to risk it all and still wet the bed, only the liner gets wet, saving your covers, sheets, and mattress. You could always put a cheap “who really cares about this blanket anyway” directly under the liner for further protection.
If the liner lying on top is a turn off, buy an inexpensive comforter to place right on top of the liner… one that (should it get wet), won’t disrupt the rest of your linens.
If the cat has soiled your mattress, it’s a real headache to try to get rid of the smell. Febreeze just won’t “cut it.” You’ll need an Odor Neutralizer Made Specifically for Cats. Spray this on the mattress to get rid of the urine smell that their little noses can still pick up.
Buying a mattress cover can also put the odds back in your favor.

Whatever you do, don’t yell (and for Heaven’s sake NEVER hit) a cat. Cats are not like human children or dogs. They do not understand what you consider “discipline,” and will only think you are mean and are trying to harm or kill them. It will affect your relationship with your cat in a horrible, often irreversible way. Imagine if someone with a similar size advantage yelling at or striking you!

It simply does not work – you cannot reason with a cat. You have to outsmart them.

Go through each of the steps above and find the solution that works for your family. If it comes down to simply buying extra throw rugs and washing them frequently and using a shower curtain liner and extra covers on your bed (or shutting your bedroom door, if that’s an option) – trust me, the companionship, love, and entertainment a cat brings to your home is more than worth it.

Collapsible 3-Way Cat Tunnel: One of Our Favorite Toys for Cats and Kittens

August 8, 2017 By Joi

Two of our cats recently had kittens – you can surely imagine the crazy fun we’ve had the past few months! All of our cats love to play, but kittens treat playing like oxygen – if they’re awake, they’re looking for something to get into.

We bought them a collapsible cat tunnel and I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a bigger hit. Kittens and grown cats, alike, are losing their minds over this tunnel! They carry toys into the tunnel, run through it top-speed, hide out inside the tunnel (their hide and seek games are especially epic), and even fall asleep inside – right in the middle of playing.

I’ve gotten a kick out of watching the kittens play with it, but I think I’ve gotten even more joy from watching the older cats “become kittens again” by playing with it. Tunnels like this stimulate a cat’s creativity and heighten their shenanigans. Trust me, it’s really something to behold.

Playtime isn’t just fun for your cat (and you), it’s wonderful exercise AND keeps his/her mind active and keeps them from becoming bored. A bored cat is a miserable cat – toys are the best way to keep that from happening.

Tunnels have an advantage on a lot of cat toys – they can be enjoyed (and will be enjoyed) by the cat even when its humans aren’t home.

See: Eyourlife’s 3-Way Cat Tunnel for more information!

Diabetes in Cats and Dogs: Risk Factors That Increase Their Risk

July 18, 2017 By Joi

This was created by Cash Now Offer.

All pet “parents” want to protect their furry babies from harm and sickness. We go to great lengths and often spare no expense to keep them as healthy as possible. One very real danger to pets is diabetes. I had a toy poodle, once, who developed diabetes. Thanks to excellent medical care, he lived a very long and very, very happy life. Fortunately, he kept regular, scheduled vet visits so he was, in fact, diagnosed (and treated) before we even noticed unusual symptoms.

Another reason to make and keep regular appointments with your pet’s vet!

How to Choose the Best Hotel While at the Cat Show

April 25, 2017 By Joi

Traveling can be a lot of fun especially when you get to go to places and do things that you love. When you are traveling out of town for a cat show you want to be able to stay someplace that is nice and does not have cat fur on the pillow for a change. However, since you don’t get out much you might find it difficult to choose a hotel. There are a lot of choices in hotels, so how do you know which one is the best? According to Independent Traveler you need to decide what matters most to you and let that guide your decision. What type of accommodations are you interested in? Are you searching for a hotel that also has a pool, spa and fitness center or would you prefer to be close to entertainment? You next decision will probably be what you plan on (or set aside) to spend on a hotel along with where it is located. Another thing to consider when choosing the best hotel for you is if there are fees in case you have to cancel. There is a lot to consider when trying to decide which hotel is the best option for you.

A great hotel that you might want to consider when you are at the next cat show is Crowne Plaza and with their partnership with Groupon Coupons you can save money on your stay as well. When it comes to the very best that is what you will get when staying with Crowne Plaza Hotel & Resorts. At Crowne Plaza you will only get the finest treatment and most luxurious experience. Why no give the lap of luxury a chance before you head back to your kitties when you choose to stay with Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts.

Before you visit Crowne Plaza Hotel & Resorts be sure you visit Groupon Coupons for money saving coupons and promo codes that will be sure to please just about anyone. Save more money when you use this promo code and get up to 30 percent off your next stay. Use this code and smile because you will be getting the best rates anywhere. Become a IHG member and get an extra 30 percent off! Are you 62 or older? Use this coupon and get up to 30 percent off with senior discount rates. Use this code and get up to 20 percent off during the coast to coast sale. If you find a better rate somewhere else, Crowne Plaza will give you our first night for free. Have a pizza party with this coupon and save! Use this promo code and claim your free golf ticket. Sign up for the reward club and earn 60,000 points easily! From special offers when you grab the best money saving coupons around to adding breakfast to you stay you will always save more when you visit Groupon Coupons first.

Stay for less but still get to enjoy staying in luxury when you stay with Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts. Be sure to see Groupon Coupons first and then you can sit back and enjoy the savings.

Pet Adoptions and Rehoming: Animal Shelters Need Our Help (Infographic)

April 6, 2017 By Joi

The infographic below shows just how greatly local humane shelters need our help and support. It’s a very real problem and it’s a growing problem, especially here in the States. Do all you can – even if it’s just donating dry food or cans to your local shelter. – Joi (“Joy”)

Image courtesy of PBS Pet Travel

Tips for Making Older Cats More Comfortable

April 4, 2017 By Joi

I’ve had and loved cats, literally, all of my life. I can’t even begin to imagine a home or life without at least one cat. I’ve always had several indoor cats as well as several (oftentimes SEVERAL!) outdoor cats.

Some of my cats have lived exceptionally long lives and I can say this – nothing in the world is any sweeter, more enjoyable, or more lovable than an older cat. Older cats do, of course, require extra consideration.

Recently, we had a kitten (Guen) move into the house – a house where a 13 year-old-diva-cat (Alexa) reigns supreme. The entire process has amazed me for several reasons. For one thing, do kittens ever run out of energy?!?!

Naturally we’ve enjoyed outdoor kittens over the years, but this is the first kitten we’ve had in the house in years. The energy level and amount of wonder and curiosity are pretty amazing and I’m loving every moment.

Ironically, caring for (and preparing your home for) a kitten is very much like caring for (and preparing your home for) an older cat.

You have to make sure there’s nothing that can fall on them if they (kitten) ram into a table or shelf or (older cat with dimming eyesight) accidentally bump into the same table or shelf.
You have to make sure they have comfortable beds in several places throughout the house. Kittens and older cats are liable to have a nap attack at any given moment and a nice, comfortable bed all their own is highly important. Younger cats often climb onto furniture to nap, whereas older cats (whether they’re lazy, have a little arthritis setting in, have diminished eyesight, or simply lack the wherewithal or inclination to jump if they don’t have to) usually favor low-to-the-ground beds. I have a bed for Alexa in my home office – right beside my desk, so she’s always near me during the day. I have another bed in the den, so she can retire near the tv at night to stay close to my husband and I (though, most of the time her favorite place to sit is beside “dad” on the couch). She also, of course, has a huge bed in our bedroom where she sleeps (and snores!) through the night. Multiple beds are simply one of the kindest and most loving things you can do for an older cat. But make sure they’re easy to get in and out of – the less they have to jump, the better. The Deluxe Easy Entry Cat Bed (pictured at the top) makes a perfect cat bed for an older cat. More on it in a minute…
Two words: Fresh water. This tip (as well as others, obviously) is applicable for cats of all ages, but it’s one that I list any chance I get because so many people overlook it. We wouldn’t want to drink day-old, dirty water, so we shouldn’t make our cats. I provide fresh, cool water throughout the day for our cats (inside and out).
If you have reason to suspect that your older gal or guy would need glasses, if available (don’t you wish they were?!?) – keep this in mind at all times. When a cat or dog begins to have trouble with their vision, extra care must be taken to keep them safe, comfortable, and confident. Be CERTAIN you don’t move furniture around or place anything (even a new rug) along their preferred paths. Cats with failing vision get around amazingly – but they do so because they’ve made a mental map of their home. If you change anything, it’ll make for one very confused and frustrated little one.
This tip is for older cats and/or cats with vision problems: No loud or sudden noises. Bad for the nerves! Always try to keep the house as calm as possible. This, of course, doesn’t count the noises he/she is already accustomed to. If my husband and I didn’t make plenty of noise while watching our favorite baseball team (St. Louis Cardinals!), Alexa would think something was wrong. She’s VERY accustomed to us questioning the umps, cheering for our team’s home runs, booing for the other team’s home runs, etc. Again, if all that racket stopped, she’d think something was rotten in Denmark! Also, if you have kids or grand-kids and the cat is used to their noise… it shouldn’t be a problem. Just be sure everyone knows to approach an older cat slowly, calmly, and to… by all means… let them know you’re headed their way.
Never “roughhouse” with an older cat – it’ll only frighten them and you could very well hurt them, without meaning too, of course.

Basically, this is the time to pamper your little girl or boy more than ever!

One final tip from someone who has had quite a few cats who lived WAY longer than you’d expect: When you look at your cat (whether they’re 10, 15, 20, or 24), do NOT think of “losing” them. Think only of “having” and “loving” them. This is something I realized when one of my cats (Prissy) hit 15 years old. Every time I looked at her, I found my heart feeling heavy – thinking about how badly it would hurt when I lost her. That sort of pain is bad enough to feel just once… when you actually have to say goodbye. Don’t invite those feelings into your life a minute before. Think of how blessed you are to have this little bundle of fur, how much you love her/him, and how you are going to do everything in your power to make them as comfortable as possible.

I caught myself (when Prissy turned 15) and turned my thinking around. She went on to have 5 more birthdays!

Why The Deluxe Easy Entry Cat Bed Makes a Perfect Bed for Older Cats:

This beautiful bed has “easy access” – the older cat doesn’t have to jump in or out of bed, which is something older cats greatly appreciate. The material is incredibly soft and comfortable – perfect for an older cat. I also love that its “walls” provide extra support and comfort. The fact that it’s so darn good-looking (and machine washable) are icing on the cake. Click through Deluxe Easy Entry Cat Bed for more information. This deluxe beauty is just the thing your pampered baby would love to curl up in.