Your Cat(s)' name, age, and gender
Murray, age 7 or 8, male
Yuki, age 5 months, male
Also, my mom's cat, who used to be mine - Simba, age 14, male
Is one cat the matriarch or patriarch? Describe how.
I just introduced Murray and Yuki to each other yesterday. Murray is definitely establishing his dominance. Murray spent some time chasing Yuki around, but overnight, things were very quiet, so maybe Murray is adjusting and feeling more secure in his dominance.
How I Became Part of a Cat Family
I never had a cat as a child. In fact, I never liked cats much growing up. I was more of a dog person. However, as an adult, I went to a pet store one day looking for a bird. They didn't have any birds I liked, but there was this tiny kitten all alone in a cage, looking so sad and lonely. He looked at me and meowed, and I just had to take him home. That was Simba, and he made a cat person out of me. Ever since, I have absolutely loved cats.
My Cat Family Members
Simba was my first cat. He is very playful (even still, at age 14), and he believes he is superior to humans. He always has to get his way - if he wants to play, his humans have to drop everything and play with him; if he wants a certain snack, he has to be given the right one or he won't eat it; etc. He doesn't like to be petted with hands, but will enjoy a good foot rub from time to time. He is now my mom's cat, and they are very tightly bonded. Simba absolutely rules my mom - she has spoiled him rotten.
Murray came into my life six years ago, when I was catless and needed a companion (but didn't know it). He was a stray who hung around my apartment complex. I would talk nice to him and the other strays, since I love cats. He must have figured out I was a cat person, because one night when I opened my apartment door, Murray ran past me inside, and went straight to the refrigerator. I fed him some lunch meat, and he ate the whole pack, poor hungry boy. I left the door open so he could leave when he was ready, but instead he settled down in the living room and watched TV with me all night. When bedtime came, he still wouldn't leave, so I let him stay. He's been with me ever since. He and I have a very special bond because of the magical way he came into my life, and he is my baby.
Yuki just came into my life several days ago. I had begun thinking that with all the hours I am working these days, Murray could use a companion when I am away because I know he gets very lonely. I went on petfinder.com and saw a very cute picture of a Siamese/Snowshoe mix, who was described as very mellow and loving. He sounded compatible with Murray, personality-wise. And Murray is a Siamese, so I am positively inclined toward that breed. When I inquired to the rescue organization about the kitty, I was told he was already spoken for. So I was disappointed. However, I later got a call telling me the prospective adoptive "parent" never showed up, so the kitty was still available if I was still interested. So I went to see him, and hold him, and pet him, and I brought him home. Yuki, as I named this kitty, is fitting in nicely in his new home (at least, fitting in with me... he still needs to win Murray over), and he is a real loverboy. Also, though his profile said he wasn't very playful, he is actually a very playful boy, enjoying toys, etc. Yuki is endearing himself to me on a deep level. I just hope Murray comes to realize I still love him as much as I ever did, too.
Tips and Tricks
- If introducing a new cat to an "established" cat, they are probably ready to meet when they start playing with each other's paws under the door.
- Introduction may not be a smooth, easy thing. It is a process. Some patience is needed. The "established" cat might feel threatened and act out, at least at first.
- Make sure the "established" cat gets enough attention and affection, during the introduction process, so s/he knows that s/he is still loved by and important to you.
