I’m an unabashed cat lover. My first cat, Baby, lived to be almost thirteen. I got him as a nine week old youngster.
My second cat is Tobermory. He was, the vet estimates, between 2-1/2 and 3 years old when I took him in, in 1999. I named him for the cat in the classic short story by H.H. Munro(Saki), and I just love him to pieces.
For a while I had the Road Warrior, adopted as a kitten into my home when I already had had Tobermory for about a year. Sadly, at the age of 4-1/2, Roadie became ill and I had him put down.
I hadn’t planned on ever having a second cat, while Toby lived. But due to extraordinary circumstances I have taken in another cat, an elderly 15 year old pet named Vladimir.
He was installed yesterday afternoon in my bathroom, with food, water, and litterbox, and I spent most of the evening being cuddly to Tobermory. A couple of times I let Toby view Vlad through the door, when I opened it a crack. He gave those low “kitty growls”, but otherwise was not too upset.
This morning I opened the door all the way and let Vladimir come out. Tobermory hissed a few times, and growled. Vlad would back away, anddid not seem disposed to be confrontational, and I think he’s willing to cede alpha cat status to Tobermory. He is a loving animal that likes being petted too. I bought him a brush as he’s a long-hair that’s shedding his gray fur like crazy just now.
There have been not fights, but Tobermory will still growl if Vladimir passes near him. Just now Toby is on his favorite perch, the top of the big box my computer monitor came in. Vlad passed by and Toby, although seemingly relaxed, gave a little hiss. Vlad didn’t answer back, and kept on his way.
I don’t think they’re gonna hurt each other, but I hope they eventually grow to be friends. Last night I also gave Tobermory a can of soft food, a special treat, to show him I still love him.
Any Dopers have stories of taking in adult cats, epspecially older ones, that they will share? Or have advice to give?