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Wed 20 Sep, 2017 10:02 pm
We have 5 cats, indoor/outdoor: the queen and her four grown children. The father, a semi-feral cat, has been hanging around here and we feed him, talk to him, and can now pet him, altho he is a pretty big, rough character. (and the father of the kittens) He has gradually regained his health and has often taken to chasing after our cats, once scratching one. I trapped him recently, had him fixed,dewormed and vaccinated. He's ok but really wants to come in at night with everyone. Tonight, I found him hiding inside (used the cat door) and when I remarked, the queen shrieked, he shrieked and she chased him out. Fortunately no blood shed.
Is there anything I can do to get him accepted and modify his behavior. He seems so lonely and sad, and ,with winter approaching, I am very concerned.
Thank you!
@gdenn,
My advice:
Bring him inside and close/block the cat door so he can't be chased out.
There will probably be a lot of growling for a couple days, but everyone should get used to each other if they have no other choice.
If there are fights, try to break up the fight (try not to get yourself clawed).
Try not to be punitive towards whoever started the fight (and don't assume you know who started it if you don't actually know). They will all be under stress and will need your love and support.
@gdenn,
I agree with Oralloy, let him back in and block the way back out. I also had 5 indoor cats and brought in a 6th after my father passed. She was raised completely alone and only knew my father. It took her 8 weeks to start coming out. Now she blends is like she grew up with them. Give them treats around each other and play with them together as well. Showing them all that they can eat and play together in peace is a huge step.
@MelissaKay,
Thanks to all who offered advice. Strangely enough, Gus (the semi-feral dad) has been coming in thru the cat door and just quietly watching everyone. If no fuss is made, everything stays calm. Sometimes, tho, Minnie (our older Cocker Spaniel) "asks" him to leave and he does. Also, Stella (the queen) will chase him out, usually late at night.
I am optimistic that things will eventually work out and we can be one big, and SAFE, family!
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