Need guidance on cat introductions

calicosrspecial

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Ah it's fine. I will actually probably get used to it and sleep through. Sure works for my alarm, which I have to change every couple weeks/month. If I don't, I can easily sleep through a solid hour of alarms and risk being late. If I have important appointments in the mornings (I work mostly afternoons), my partner will call me on the phone in the morning to make sure I haven't overslept... Which most of the time I would without his help 🤣

If that's my biggest worry regarding the two of them, I suppose all is going good :)

I'm glad they seem to be handling being alone together so well. I really don't want to separate them anymore, and I will have to go back to work soon (unfortunately 🤣). And I really really don't want to lock Yoda up in the windowless bedroom which he already spent two months of isolation in. He's so much happier now that he's "free".

They've made such fast progress, so much faster and better than I could have ever imagined! (Okay, after two months of isolation in close proximity 🤣). It really makes me a bit angry with the vets etc who told me not even to attempt this and just leave him to his fate. I really don't think I could have done it without all the help on this site ❤
"Ah it's fine. I will actually probably get used to it and sleep through. Sure works for my alarm, which I have to change every couple weeks/month. If I don't, I can easily sleep through a solid hour of alarms and risk being late. If I have important appointments in the mornings (I work mostly afternoons), my partner will call me on the phone in the morning to make sure I haven't overslept... Which most of the time I would without his help 🤣" - Well, maybe it is a positive then. ;) I like your attitude!!! Even single cats will chose to wake up and play with the human at early houses.

"If that's my biggest worry regarding the two of them, I suppose all is going good :)" - Hahahaha, YES!!! AGREE!!!! :)

"I'm glad they seem to be handling being alone together so well." - ABSOLUTELY!!

" I really don't want to separate them anymore," - No and I don't think you will have to.

" and I will have to go back to work soon (unfortunately 🤣). And I really really don't want to lock Yoda up in the windowless bedroom which he already spent two months of isolation in. He's so much happier now that he's "free"." - Yes. I suspect they will do a lot of sleeping when you are gone. And maybe a bit of playing.

"They've made such fast progress, so much faster and better than I could have ever imagined! " - It is pretty amazing even to me. Yoda is the PERFECT cat for Charly.

"(Okay, after two months of isolation in close proximity 🤣). " - Isolation had to happen.

"It really makes me a bit angry with the vets etc who told me not even to attempt this and just leave him to his fate." - Please try not to be angry at them. They are medical not behavioral (psychiatrist) type professionals usually.

You have done WONDERFULLY with them!!!

"I really don't think I could have done it without all the help on this site ❤ " - Awwww, I think you could have but if we helped even a little it is wonderful!! Thank you!!

This thread has made my life better. Seeing success and happiness is so good for the soul. :) THANK YOU for all you have done!!
 
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noani

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Well.. they do have their moments so these pics aren't representative of the whole thing but look at them (Charly on the left, I was lying between them for a late afternoon nap(for them, just chill and enjoy their company for me) and when I got up I can't remember which one moved closer to the other). There was a hiss before this (actually sounded like a hiss-spit) when Charly first woke up but then I guess they were fine as they laid down like this...
IMG_20220106_195011381.jpg

Then later after (their) dinner:
IMG_20220106_204523759.jpg


Here Charly is on the right in his favourite vantage point spot. It's higher than it looks due to our ridiculously high ceilings in Sicily. They get on from the right (out of frame) so when Yoda jumped up as Charly was already snoozing there he jumped right next to him and then laid down. Charly looked at them wide eyed in the mirror on the opposite wall for a minute, then I reassured him verbally and he closed his eyes and they both relaxed there. First time he's allowed Yoda up there with him, he didn't flinch when he jumped nor hiss or paw. Nor did he leave!

He still swats him sometimes and he does hiss a bit but Yoda is starting to accept it and not push it more (or at least, not as much). Unless they're both in a playful mood and have been running around, he will pounce no matter what. And sometimes out of the blue but if I'm around to catch it he'll stop if told stop (by me). Or he can be distracted by his fave feather always 😂

Whatever hissing and swatting goes on I guess they're fine if they've been out together alone for 3 hours yesterday and 4 today and still lie like this next to each other. Or if I'm with them it's usually Charly on my legs or in the crook of my knees (usual), and Yoda against my chest (usual). So it works out well that their preferred spots for naps with me are not too close for comfort but still quite close!

If my partner is there and we're watching a series or something on my tablet, Charly will go for either of our legs and Yoda full on in between our torsos
IMG_20220105_210658439.jpg

(Yoda). Charly was curled up on my boyfriend's legs sleeping deeply.

They do seem to get a bit more crazy in the early morning and late night (expected), but if in between they are like this and can stay alone without me to supervise for hours (or during the night, when they are also unsupervised as unless they play on me or right up against me, I wouldn't wake up if they're just rolling around on the floor), I guess we don't have a big problem..

The reason I said a little bit angry is just that thinking back, all the discouragement from vets and other people almost made me not even try.. Two vets told me "it's not worth it for a street cat" and "it'll never work even if you get him back to health, he'll be miserable inside and Charly will never accept another cat, he's too territorial". Not to mention my neighbors, acquaintances' (unsolicited) two cents.

Until I came here and got encouragement and optimism and decided to give it a go anyway.
It was a hard few months between yoda's long slow recovery and all the care he required, plus getting him "house trained" so to speak, and initial intro anxiety (me), but I'm really glad I found encouragement to try here, and then your guidance during the intro process has been absolutely priceless. ❤
 

calicosrspecial

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Well.. they do have their moments so these pics aren't representative of the whole thing but look at them (Charly on the left, I was lying between them for a late afternoon nap(for them, just chill and enjoy their company for me) and when I got up I can't remember which one moved closer to the other). There was a hiss before this (actually sounded like a hiss-spit) when Charly first woke up but then I guess they were fine as they laid down like this...
View attachment 406810
Then later after (their) dinner:
View attachment 406811

Here Charly is on the right in his favourite vantage point spot. It's higher than it looks due to our ridiculously high ceilings in Sicily. They get on from the right (out of frame) so when Yoda jumped up as Charly was already snoozing there he jumped right next to him and then laid down. Charly looked at them wide eyed in the mirror on the opposite wall for a minute, then I reassured him verbally and he closed his eyes and they both relaxed there. First time he's allowed Yoda up there with him, he didn't flinch when he jumped nor hiss or paw. Nor did he leave!

He still swats him sometimes and he does hiss a bit but Yoda is starting to accept it and not push it more (or at least, not as much). Unless they're both in a playful mood and have been running around, he will pounce no matter what. And sometimes out of the blue but if I'm around to catch it he'll stop if told stop (by me). Or he can be distracted by his fave feather always 😂

Whatever hissing and swatting goes on I guess they're fine if they've been out together alone for 3 hours yesterday and 4 today and still lie like this next to each other. Or if I'm with them it's usually Charly on my legs or in the crook of my knees (usual), and Yoda against my chest (usual). So it works out well that their preferred spots for naps with me are not too close for comfort but still quite close!

If my partner is there and we're watching a series or something on my tablet, Charly will go for either of our legs and Yoda full on in between our torsos
View attachment 406812
(Yoda). Charly was curled up on my boyfriend's legs sleeping deeply.

They do seem to get a bit more crazy in the early morning and late night (expected), but if in between they are like this and can stay alone without me to supervise for hours (or during the night, when they are also unsupervised as unless they play on me or right up against me, I wouldn't wake up if they're just rolling around on the floor), I guess we don't have a big problem..

The reason I said a little bit angry is just that thinking back, all the discouragement from vets and other people almost made me not even try.. Two vets told me "it's not worth it for a street cat" and "it'll never work even if you get him back to health, he'll be miserable inside and Charly will never accept another cat, he's too territorial". Not to mention my neighbors, acquaintances' (unsolicited) two cents.

Until I came here and got encouragement and optimism and decided to give it a go anyway.
It was a hard few months between yoda's long slow recovery and all the care he required, plus getting him "house trained" so to speak, and initial intro anxiety (me), but I'm really glad I found encouragement to try here, and then your guidance during the intro process has been absolutely priceless. ❤
"Well.. they do have their moments" - Pretty much all cats do ;)

" so these pics aren't representative of the whole thing but look at them (Charly on the left, I was lying between them for a late afternoon nap(for them, just chill and enjoy their company for me) and when I got up I can't remember which one moved closer to the other). There was a hiss before this (actually sounded like a hiss-spit) when Charly first woke up but then I guess they were fine as they laid down like this..." - The pic is ADORABLE and FANTASTIC!!!

"Then later after (their) dinner:" - PERFECT!!! They sure seem bonded!!!

"Here Charly is on the right in his favourite vantage point spot. It's higher than it looks due to our ridiculously high ceilings in Sicily. They get on from the right (out of frame) so when Yoda jumped up as Charly was already snoozing there he jumped right next to him and then laid down. Charly looked at them wide eyed in the mirror on the opposite wall for a minute, then I reassured him verbally and he closed his eyes and they both relaxed there. First time he's allowed Yoda up there with him, he didn't flinch when he jumped nor hiss or paw. Nor did he leave!" - Awwwwww, great to read the backstory. They look like they do that all the time!!! GREAT progress!!!

"He still swats him sometimes and he does hiss a bit" - That is fine as long as all is well after.

" but Yoda is starting to accept it and not push it more (or at least, not as much). " - THAT is SO HELPFUL!!!

"Unless they're both in a playful mood and have been running around, he will pounce no matter what. And sometimes out of the blue but if I'm around to catch it he'll stop if told stop (by me). Or he can be distracted by his fave feather always 😂" - Awwwww, the pounce is just play.

"Whatever hissing and swatting goes on I guess they're fine if they've been out together alone for 3 hours yesterday and 4 today and still lie like this next to each other." - EXACTLY!!! :)

" Or if I'm with them it's usually Charly on my legs or in the crook of my knees (usual), and Yoda against my chest (usual). So it works out well that their preferred spots for naps with me are not too close for comfort but still quite close!" - Perfect. :)

"If my partner is there and we're watching a series or something on my tablet, Charly will go for either of our legs and Yoda full on in between our torsos " - Awwwwwwwwwwww

"(Yoda)." - That picture is ADORABLE!!!

" Charly was curled up on my boyfriend's legs sleeping deeply." - Awwwwwwwwww

"They do seem to get a bit more crazy in the early morning and late night (expected)," - Exactly, that is hunting time (play time). Totalyl normal.

" but if in between they are like this and can stay alone without me to supervise for hours (or during the night, when they are also unsupervised as unless they play on me or right up against me, I wouldn't wake up if they're just rolling around on the floor), I guess we don't have a big problem.." - EXACTLY!!!!

"The reason I said a little bit angry is just that thinking back, all the discouragement from vets and other people almost made me not even try.. " - I understand. That is usually the easy answer for many people. So the probability is that is the right advice. BUT there are people like you and me and many on this site that are the exception.

"Two vets told me "it's not worth it for a street cat" and "it'll never work even if you get him back to health, he'll be miserable inside and Charly will never accept another cat, he's too territorial". Not to mention my neighbors, acquaintances' (unsolicited) two cents." - I know. It is VERY hard to know. I take in only ferals (and older ones at that). People would never suggest that. But I can do it. I think understanding the reality and the abilities is the key. Not everyone can do what you did. You should be proud and maybe (hopefully) everyone that has witnessed this can learn something.

"Until I came here and got encouragement and optimism and decided to give it a go anyway." - Awwwwww, I am crying now.

"It was a hard few months between yoda's long slow recovery and all the care he required, plus getting him "house trained" so to speak," - Yes, it is not easy and that is why that advice is probably correct for the majority of people. :/

" and initial intro anxiety (me)," - Totally normal.

" but I'm really glad I found encouragement to try here, and then your guidance during the intro process has been absolutely priceless. ❤ " - Awwwwwww, THANK YOU. My tears are flowing I can barely type.

I am SO THANKFUL for you and all you have done to save another life!!!! :)
 
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noani

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I cried too reading your response. I am really so grateful and so happy when I see them together now.

Last night, they were (I think) playing and Charly grabbed yoda's head and bunny kicked his head. Not sure if that is still play? He hasn't done it before. It didn't make Yoda stop but I sat down next to them and distracted him (easily) and checked his face and head, no scratches. And I know Charly could definitely draw blood with his bunny kicks (well, my arm knows...😂 Although he doesn't do that to me anymore. He did though when he hadn't learned any inhibition or proper etiquette for playing with humans.. he has now).

Anyways, what I wanted to share are some videos that happened last night (before the bunny kicking rough play I think it was?).


Yoda tried to lick him the day before but after three licks got a loud hiss and maybe a swat (not sure about the swat) and stopped. Last night, Charly allowed it for a good 1-2 minutes (caught some of it in video 0 and 1) and then just raised his paw at him to say stop (video 2) which he sometimes does to us too when he wants you to stop touching him. Yoda eventually stopped from that and they both groomed themselves then.

Before the videos, they had been sleeping like this:
IMG_20220106_234547401_HDR.jpg


As per usual, Yoda was the one joining Charly who was already lying there. Charly looked at him dubiously for a minute and then fell asleep too.

It looks like Yoda likes him a lot already, where Charly often seems to see him as a bit of an annoyance.. although he does also chase him playfully (I hope).

He's in general not a very touchy cat, he will usually come for cuddles when he's tired or has just woken up. In general though, cuddles for Charly means lying on me and getting head scratches. Anything else usually gets him overstimulated in seconds...literally, if you tried a few strokes anywhere on his body he'd bite except on very rare occasions where he lets you know it's okay (if he's hungry and wants food, when I come home from work usually). We've learned and just stick to his head in general unless he shows he wants more.

So the fact that he let Yoda lick him for so long isn't at all bad. If I tried to pet him where Yoda was licking, no matter how deeply asleep he was, I would have been bitten for sure. (He doesn't bite hard of course. Doesn't draw blood or anything. Just a "hey stop that NOW".

Anyways I thought you might enjoy the sweet moment they shared earlier. I basically had to keep myself from crying while filming because I didn't want to startle them.
 
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calicosrspecial

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I cried too reading your response. I am really so grateful and so happy when I see them together now.

Last night, they were (I think) playing and Charly grabbed yoda's head and bunny kicked his head. Not sure if that is still play? He hasn't done it before. It didn't make Yoda stop but I sat down next to them and distracted him (easily) and checked his face and head, no scratches. And I know Charly could definitely draw blood with his bunny kicks (well, my arm knows...😂 Although he doesn't do that to me anymore. He did though when he hadn't learned any inhibition or proper etiquette for playing with humans.. he has now).

Anyways, what I wanted to share are some videos that happened last night (before the bunny kicking rough play I think it was?).


Yoda tried to lick him the day before but after three licks got a loud hiss and maybe a swat (not sure about the swat) and stopped. Last night, Charly allowed it for a good 1-2 minutes (caught some of it in video 0 and 1) and then just raised his paw at him to say stop (video 2) which he sometimes does to us too when he wants you to stop touching him. Yoda eventually stopped from that and they both groomed themselves then.

Before the videos, they had been sleeping like this:
View attachment 406880

As per usual, Yoda was the one joining Charly who was already lying there. Charly looked at him dubiously for a minute and then fell asleep too.

It looks like Yoda likes him a lot already, where Charly often seems to see him as a bit of an annoyance.. although he does also chase him playfully (I hope).

He's in general not a very touchy cat, he will usually come for cuddles when he's tired or has just woken up. In general though, cuddles for Charly means lying on me and getting head scratches. Anything else usually gets him overstimulated in seconds...literally, if you tried a few strokes anywhere on his body he'd bite except on very rare occasions where he lets you know it's okay (if he's hungry and wants food, when I come home from work usually). We've learned and just stick to his head in general unless he shows he wants more.

So the fact that he let Yoda lick him for so long isn't at all bad. If I tried to pet him where Yoda was licking, no matter how deeply asleep he was, I would have been bitten for sure. (He doesn't bite hard of course. Doesn't draw blood or anything. Just a "hey stop that NOW".

Anyways I thought you might enjoy the sweet moment they shared earlier. I basically had to keep myself from crying while filming because I didn't want to startle them.
"I cried too reading your response." - Awwwwwwwwww :)

" I am really so grateful and so happy when I see them together now." - I so know how you feel!!

"Last night, they were (I think) playing and Charly grabbed yoda's head and bunny kicked his head. Not sure if that is still play?" - Yep, if they acted fine after it was all play. They will do that. :/

" He hasn't done it before. It didn't make Yoda stop but I sat down next to them and distracted him (easily) and checked his face and head, no scratches. And I know Charly could definitely draw blood with his bunny kicks (well, my arm knows...😂 Although he doesn't do that to me anymore. He did though when he hadn't learned any inhibition or proper etiquette for playing with humans.. he has now)." - Interesting Yoda didn't stop. I guess he thought it was play as well given he was easily distracted and there was no harm. .

"Anyways, what I wanted to share are some videos that happened last night (before the bunny kicking rough play I think it was?). " - Ok, let's see. I am always up to watching them!! They are so darn adorable!!!

Video 0 - OH MY, THERE GO THE TEARS AGAIN!!! That is SO WONDERFUL!!!! I am not sure who is grooming who but it doesn't matter. They are loving it!!! :)

Video 1 - Same as video 0. ADORABLE. I am guessing it is Yoda grooming Charly. I expect Charly to get annoyed fairly soon......... ;) They almost always accept it to a point. :/

Video 2 - Yep, and there it is. TOO FUNNY but again my tears are flowing. They are TOTALLY fine. I am guessing Charly said ok that is enough especially the ear blocks Yoda (I am guessing - if it is opposite I will be shocked) And Yoda is fine, Charly is fine, they groom themselves. PERFECT!!!! Yep, they are successfully intro'd!!! :)

"Yoda tried to lick him the day before but after three licks got a loud hiss and maybe a swat (not sure about the swat) and stopped. Last night, Charly allowed it for a good 1-2 minutes (caught some of it in video 0 and 1) and then just raised his paw at him to say stop (video 2) which he sometimes does to us too when he wants you to stop touching him. Yoda eventually stopped from that and they both groomed themselves then." - Yep, so it was Yoda "taking care" of his older brother and the boss of the house Charly. PERFECT!!! AMAZING Charly was so tolerant. They love and trust each other!!! I can't tell you how my heart feels BUT I know that you know EXACTLY the same feeling!!! Hard to describe though, huh?

"Before the videos, they had been sleeping like this:" - ADORABLE!!! I honestly can't believe how Charly accepted Yoda so quickly. Yoda is the perfect cat for him. He is a real diplomat!!!

"As per usual, Yoda was the one joining Charly who was already lying there." - Exactly, like a younger sibling trying to win the other one over.

" Charly looked at him dubiously for a minute and then fell asleep too." - Awwwwwwwwwww, acceptance. :)

"It looks like Yoda likes him a lot already," - TOTALLY!!

" where Charly often seems to see him as a bit of an annoyance.." - Yes like an older sibling BUT I think he loves Yoda.

" although he does also chase him playfully (I hope)." - EXACTLY!!! If it wasn't play you would not see these pictures and videos.

"He's in general not a very touchy cat, he will usually come for cuddles when he's tired or has just woken up. In general though, cuddles for Charly means lying on me and getting head scratches." - Yes

"Anything else usually gets him overstimulated in seconds...literally, if you tried a few strokes anywhere on his body he'd bite except on very rare occasions where he lets you know it's okay (if he's hungry and wants food, when I come home from work usually). We've learned and just stick to his head in general unless he shows he wants more." - Exactly, VERY common. Makes the above videos even more amazing.

"So the fact that he let Yoda lick him for so long isn't at all bad." - Isn't "bad"???? THAT is AMAZING!!! Charly is showing us he accepts and loves Yoda (and of course Yoda loves Charly).

"If I tried to pet him where Yoda was licking, no matter how deeply asleep he was, I would have been bitten for sure. (He doesn't bite hard of course. Doesn't draw blood or anything. Just a "hey stop that NOW"." - yes

"Anyways I thought you might enjoy the sweet moment they shared earlier." - Oh my YES!!!! I have the same feeling in my heart that you are feeling. Isn't it a WONDERFUL feeling!!! And yes, I cried as well. It is SO WONDERFUL, SO SPECIAL!!!

" I basically had to keep myself from crying while filming because I didn't want to startle them. " - Exactly........................ :) It is such a great feeling!!!
 
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noani

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Yep it was Yoda licking Charly. I agree he turned out to be the perfect fit for Charly! Ever since I took Charly in, I thought about getting him a friend, and actually regretted not taking in two right off the bat. But he was only 4 weeks then and was only separated from mom because she abandoned him, so the other three were still with her and I didn't want to separate another kitten from mom so early. Plus, in all honesty, I'd never had a kitten (always adopted adult former strays or older shelter cats), especially not a bottle baby, so I was completely overwhelmed with even one.
I tried once, a few weeks later when his mom abandoned the other three at 6 weeks old with another of his siblings, but it did not go well. I didn't know anything about introductions then and it did NOT go well of course as I didn't follow any protocol. So I found him a good home and was discouraged from ever trying again.

Until Yoda's accident and it all just happened organically.. I can't believe it went so well, not that it was easy and smooth sailing from the get go, but I expected Charly to have tons of problems and reluctance to accepting another cat, and sharing his territory. I guess it helped that, due to the medical issues, they had to be completely separate for almost two months without a single moment of visual access. Just smell and noises and being in a small apartment but isolated. Even when we started visuals and time together we took it so slow initially, much slower than many guides suggest. Yoda being so sweet and non confrontational sure does help and I agree he is a great diplomat and such a quick learner in general too! He was great with most of the cats in the colony too (except the mom cat but she's not friendly with any of them. She hisses and growls and swats anything that walks by her). I feel a bit guilty sometimes about having taken him away from his group as he was so bonded with a couple of them. He doesn't even seem very interested in going on the catproofed balcony except to smell the air a bit and maybe do one lap, but then he just comes back in and lies down on the bed. I'd expected him to climb up the cat net and fencing and try to find an escape route but he doesn't seem to be interested in that at all.

Oh also, they were alone again for about 5, 5 and a half hours last night (I had planned on being out maybe two hours but then we ran into other friends etc 😂). I had the camera up and it was actually really interesting to see what they do when I'm out. You were right - quite boring 😂 the camera angle only caught one of them but whoever it was was sleeping on the bed for hours (I think it was Charly as he usually sleeps at the foot of the bed). I assume Yoda was sleeping on the chair under the table. They did wake up towards the end and I saw them play chase a bit.
They hadn't even had dinner (usually around 9, 9.30) but at like 11.30 when I came home, but they were fine about that too.
I'm now officially not worried about going back to work next week and leaving them alone together.

Also, either I've already learned to sleep through their night time shenanigans (sure slept through my alarm two days in a row), or they've been less active the last couple nights. Either way, I've had two nights of uninterrupted sleep now and when I wake up, they're sleeping too and then wake up and come for cuddles before getting up.
 

calicosrspecial

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Yep it was Yoda licking Charly. I agree he turned out to be the perfect fit for Charly! Ever since I took Charly in, I thought about getting him a friend, and actually regretted not taking in two right off the bat. But he was only 4 weeks then and was only separated from mom because she abandoned him, so the other three were still with her and I didn't want to separate another kitten from mom so early. Plus, in all honesty, I'd never had a kitten (always adopted adult former strays or older shelter cats), especially not a bottle baby, so I was completely overwhelmed with even one.
I tried once, a few weeks later when his mom abandoned the other three at 6 weeks old with another of his siblings, but it did not go well. I didn't know anything about introductions then and it did NOT go well of course as I didn't follow any protocol. So I found him a good home and was discouraged from ever trying again.

Until Yoda's accident and it all just happened organically.. I can't believe it went so well, not that it was easy and smooth sailing from the get go, but I expected Charly to have tons of problems and reluctance to accepting another cat, and sharing his territory. I guess it helped that, due to the medical issues, they had to be completely separate for almost two months without a single moment of visual access. Just smell and noises and being in a small apartment but isolated. Even when we started visuals and time together we took it so slow initially, much slower than many guides suggest. Yoda being so sweet and non confrontational sure does help and I agree he is a great diplomat and such a quick learner in general too! He was great with most of the cats in the colony too (except the mom cat but she's not friendly with any of them. She hisses and growls and swats anything that walks by her). I feel a bit guilty sometimes about having taken him away from his group as he was so bonded with a couple of them. He doesn't even seem very interested in going on the catproofed balcony except to smell the air a bit and maybe do one lap, but then he just comes back in and lies down on the bed. I'd expected him to climb up the cat net and fencing and try to find an escape route but he doesn't seem to be interested in that at all.

Oh also, they were alone again for about 5, 5 and a half hours last night (I had planned on being out maybe two hours but then we ran into other friends etc 😂). I had the camera up and it was actually really interesting to see what they do when I'm out. You were right - quite boring 😂 the camera angle only caught one of them but whoever it was was sleeping on the bed for hours (I think it was Charly as he usually sleeps at the foot of the bed). I assume Yoda was sleeping on the chair under the table. They did wake up towards the end and I saw them play chase a bit.
They hadn't even had dinner (usually around 9, 9.30) but at like 11.30 when I came home, but they were fine about that too.
I'm now officially not worried about going back to work next week and leaving them alone together.

Also, either I've already learned to sleep through their night time shenanigans (sure slept through my alarm two days in a row), or they've been less active the last couple nights. Either way, I've had two nights of uninterrupted sleep now and when I wake up, they're sleeping too and then wake up and come for cuddles before getting up.
"Yep it was Yoda licking Charly." - :)

" I agree he turned out to be the perfect fit for Charly! Ever since I took Charly in, I thought about getting him a friend, and actually regretted not taking in two right off the bat. But he was only 4 weeks then and was only separated from mom because she abandoned him, so the other three were still with her and I didn't want to separate another kitten from mom so early. Plus, in all honesty, I'd never had a kitten (always adopted adult former strays or older shelter cats), especially not a bottle baby, so I was completely overwhelmed with even one." - Exactly. You absolutely made the right decision.

"I tried once, a few weeks later when his mom abandoned the other three at 6 weeks old with another of his siblings, but it did not go well. I didn't know anything about introductions then and it did NOT go well of course as I didn't follow any protocol. So I found him a good home and was discouraged from ever trying again." - Awwwwwwwwwwww. So glad they found a home.

"Until Yoda's accident and it all just happened organically.. I can't believe it went so well, not that it was easy and smooth sailing from the get go, " - Agreed

"but I expected Charly to have tons of problems and reluctance to accepting another cat, and sharing his territory." - Yes, understandable

" I guess it helped that, due to the medical issues, they had to be completely separate for almost two months without a single moment of visual access." - Hmmmmm, not so sure.

" Just smell and noises and being in a small apartment but isolated." - That can actually be tougher. :/

" Even when we started visuals and time together we took it so slow initially, much slower than many guides suggest." - Yes, to me it is all about maximizing positive encounters, minimizing or avoiding negative encounters and building confidence as a confident cat is more likely to accept and be accepted.

"Yoda being so sweet and non confrontational sure does help and I agree he is a great diplomat and such a quick learner in general too! He was great with most of the cats in the colony too (except the mom cat but she's not friendly with any of them. She hisses and growls and swats anything that walks by her). " - Yes, I do believe diplomacy is learned out of necessity for colony cats.

"I feel a bit guilty sometimes about having taken him away from his group as he was so bonded with a couple of them. - I know, it is so hard to make the best decision.

" He doesn't even seem very interested in going on the catproofed balcony except to smell the air a bit and maybe do one lap, but then he just comes back in and lies down on the bed. I'd expected him to climb up the cat net and fencing and try to find an escape route but he doesn't seem to be interested in that at all." - Awwwww, he is home and he loves it. :)

Oh also, they were alone again for about 5, 5 and a half hours last night (I had planned on being out maybe two hours but then we ran into other friends etc 😂). I had the camera up and it was actually really interesting to see what they do when I'm out. You were right - quite boring 😂 the camera angle only caught one of them but whoever it was was sleeping on the bed for hours (I think it was Charly as he usually sleeps at the foot of the bed). I assume Yoda was sleeping on the chair under the table. They did wake up towards the end and I saw them play chase a bit." - Awwwwwwwwww

"They hadn't even had dinner (usually around 9, 9.30) but at like 11.30 when I came home, but they were fine about that too." - GREAT!!

"I'm now officially not worried about going back to work next week and leaving them alone together." - FANTASTIC!!!! :)

"Also, either I've already learned to sleep through their night time shenanigans (sure slept through my alarm two days in a row), or they've been less active the last couple nights. Either way, I've had two nights of uninterrupted sleep now and when I wake up, they're sleeping too and then wake up and come for cuddles before getting up. " - Awwwww, terrific!! Maybe a combo of both????? Either way, it is terrific!!!!

You are such an AWESOME person!!!!! I am so happy for everyone!!!
 
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noani

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Thank you! I try my best but wish I could do more for all of them. The situation here is a bit sad with no support or organizations.

Today, Yoda has been a royal PITA. He's been like proper hyper active or something. He would NOT stop pouncing on Charly whenever he was just lying down. Like proper fixated. He wasn't deterred by me telling him to stop, he was distractible with the feather toy but he would go right back to fixating on Charly, wiggling his butt and pouncing. They rolled around and it got proper rough. No one has scratches or anything, but Charly became more and more hissy, swatty and growly. This went on for HOURS. As soon as I stopped moving the feather, back at it. Same later on.

Here are some videos. It went like this for a long time except the swatting match was as a one off. Mostly just pouncing and very intense rolling around and Yoda wouldn't stop however much Charly hissed growled and otherwise vocalized.


it happened mostly when I was on the bed with them in the afternoon. After literally three hours Yoda calmed down and stopped pouncing on him to which there was very intense rolling and hissing etc. I put Yoda in his room for a while (twice over the course of the day) but when he came out after two minutes he was back at it. Finally Yoda laid down and fell asleep and Charly too (on opposite sides of me on the bed). I went out for groceries etc maybe two hours and they slept the whole time (camera).

Also later on when my partner was here he started again to proper fixate on charly. He would NOT stop and he's also been a bit more bitey with us. He seems proper wound up and after a looong time of playing with the feather he still is full of energy. Charly laid down on my partner's lap and Yoda still pounced on him and they were rolling around, biting (no blood) with Charly hissing and growling like mad on us. He got to a point where he was hissing and growling constantly if Yoda was near (more than say 20cm apart). He also started swatting Yoda in a seemingly (to me) angry way and hissing when Yoda was not moving or just lying near but grooming himself. My partner got so annoyed now that he left (long story). I went to the bathroom as I was a bit upset then.

Not even five minutes later, this is how they are. Charly is the one closer to the camera. He lay down after Yoda so he chose to be quite close. Yoda had already laid down a minute before.
IMG_20220108_223759398_HDR.jpg


I noticed today that the feliway diffuser has run out, which always affects Charly (even when alone before Yoda, I would notice it's out by his agitated behaviour). I've plugged in a new one and hoping that's gonna help? Today was intense. Nothing bad really happened and they seem fine with each other now. No change in behaviour after those moments and still turn backs to each other, sleep kinda close... It's just been a huge annoyance today I guess with cat fighting sounds and commotion (even if it was play) for hours.

From the videos does that all still look like play? He would not let up for literally hours and hours. Don't know what's up with him. He wasn't as interested in cuddles, he usually purrs his head off but today not so much. Just fixated on "hunting" Charly.
 
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calicosrspecial

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Thank you! I try my best but wish I could do more for all of them. The situation here is a bit sad with no support or organizations.

Today, Yoda has been a royal PITA. He's been like proper hyper active or something. He would NOT stop pouncing on Charly whenever he was just lying down. Like proper fixated. He wasn't deterred by me telling him to stop, he was distractible with the feather toy but he would go right back to fixating on Charly, wiggling his butt and pouncing. They rolled around and it got proper rough. No one has scratches or anything, but Charly became more and more hissy, swatty and growly. This went on for HOURS. As soon as I stopped moving the feather, back at it. Same later on.

Here are some videos. It went like this for a long time except the swatting match was as a one off. Mostly just pouncing and very intense rolling around and Yoda wouldn't stop however much Charly hissed growled and otherwise vocalized.


it happened mostly when I was on the bed with them in the afternoon. After literally three hours Yoda calmed down and stopped pouncing on him to which there was very intense rolling and hissing etc. Finally Yoda laid down and fell asleep and Charly too (on opposite sides of me on the bed). I went out for groceries etc maybe two hours and they slept the whole time (camera).

Also later on when my partner was here he started again to proper fixate on charly. He would NOT stop and he's also been bitey with us. Charly laid down on my partner's lap and Yoda still pounced on him and they were rolling around, biting (no blood) with Charly hissing and growling like mad on us. My partner got so annoyed now that he left (long story).

Not even two minutes later, this is how they are. Charly is the one closer to the camera. He lay down after Yoda so he chose to be quite close. Yoda had already laid down a minute before.
View attachment 407029

I noticed today that the feliway diffuser has run out, which always affects Charly (even when alone before Yoda, I would notice it's out by his agitated behaviour). I've plugged in a new one and hoping that's gonna help? Today was intense. Nothing bad really and they seem fine. No change in behaviour after those moments and still turn backs to each other, sleep kinda close... It's just been a huge annoyance today I guess with cat fighting sounds and commotion (even if it was play) for hours.

From the videos does that all still look like play? He would not let up for literally hours and hours.
"Thank you! I try my best but wish I could do more for all of them. " - You are doing awesome. I know, we all wish we could do more but we are only human. Every little bit is great.

"The situation here is a bit sad with no support or organizations." - I know, even with places with that it is overwhelming. :(

"Today, Yoda has been a royal PITA. He's been like proper hyper active or something. He would NOT stop pouncing on Charly whenever he was just lying down. Like proper fixated. He wasn't deterred by me telling him to stop, he was distractible with the feather toy but he would go right back to fixating on Charly, wiggling his butt and pouncing. They rolled around and it got proper rough. No one has scratches or anything, but Charly became more and more hissy, swatty and growly. This went on for HOURS. As soon as I stopped moving the feather, back at it. Same later on." - :( Too much energy and excitement. How was Charly acting after it all?

"Here are some videos. It went like this for a long time except the swatting match was as a one off. Mostly just pouncing and very intense rolling around and Yoda wouldn't stop however much Charly hissed growled and otherwise vocalized. " - Yep :/

Video 1 - Rough play. :/ Sighhhhhhhhhhhhhh Boys....................

Video 2 - Oh my, too rough. :(

Video 3 - I am assuming this is after Video 2 so it tells me Video 2 was fine. It is all play. Too much, too rough, Yoda has tooo much energy. But they are fine. Sighhhhhhhh, boys.............................

"it happened mostly when I was on the bed with them in the afternoon. After literally three hours Yoda calmed down and stopped pouncing on him to which there was very intense rolling and hissing etc." - Yep, too much energy, wanting to play, have fun. :/

" Finally Yoda laid down and fell asleep and Charly too (on opposite sides of me on the bed). I went out for groceries etc maybe two hours and they slept the whole time (camera)." - Awwwwww, yep, it is all (rough) play.

"Also later on when my partner was here he started again to proper fixate on charly. He would NOT stop and he's also been bitey with us. Charly laid down on my partner's lap and Yoda still pounced on him and they were rolling around, biting (no blood) with Charly hissing and growling like mad on us." - Yes, he had way too much energy. try playing with him if possible.

" My partner got so annoyed now that he left (long story)." - Oh my, not good.

"Not even two minutes later, this is how they are. Charly is the one closer to the camera. He lay down after Yoda so he chose to be quite close. Yoda had already laid down a minute before. " - Exactly. They are fine. It is all having fun, play, etc. Not bad intent.

Picture - My goodness are they adorable!!!

"I noticed today that the feliway diffuser has run out, which always affects Charly (even when alone before Yoda, I would notice it's out by his agitated behaviour). I've plugged in a new one and hoping that's gonna help?" - Interesting.

" Today was intense." - Yes, Yoda had a lot of pent up energy.

"Nothing bad really and they seem fine. No change in behaviour after those moments and still turn backs to each other, sleep kinda close... " - Agreed, they are fine.

"It's just been a huge annoyance today I guess with cat fighting sounds and commotion (even if it was play) for hours." - Yes, probably stressful. But if Charly trust him then you should as well.

"From the videos does that all still look like play?" - Absolutely (supported by how they acted after). Too rough, too wild, but there was nothing nefarious in that.

" He would not let up for literally hours and hours. " - Yep. :/ They will do that. :(

Hang in there, they are young boys and Yoda just wants to play, play, play. :/
 
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noani

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Yes I think I edited some parts after you already started responding, I've played with him so much today and he is still full of energy. It's been like a bottomless pit of energy today! Also right after groceries he played again for at least twenty minutes. All in all, it's been hour(s!) Of interactive play for him today, some with Charly around, some individual.

Their behaviour after is pretty much normal except Charly got a bit.. I think just annoyed? Even when Yoda finally laid down he went to whack him once or twice in a sort of "angry" (annoyed manner). He makes this sound when he's annoyed and it sounded like that when he did that. But then he also laid down and they both slept. Also now they're both sleeping on the bed with Charly having his back to him.

Yoda did remind me of my brother today. When he was bored as a kid he would always come bug me😂 tomorrow I'll try giving him a new or different toy on top of the extensive interactive play. I do think the feliway plays a role though. Charly gets super agitated and high strung too when it's out. It's expensive but I've plugged in two now, one in each room.
 
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This is how it started last night after my post. Again. However much Charly vocalized Yoda keeps going in. Usually it's a bit less of swatting and more of the full on "biting" and rolling around wildly with Charly making all those noises.

I got up from the bed but they kept running around and rolling around. Charly also chased him though. About 30 minutes later, after Yoda lay down on the bed, Charly went to have a nap too (he's the one on the left)
Screenshot_20220109-114845.png

So he chose to lie quite close to Yoda after all that. A few minutes after he readjusted and fell asleep on the pillow at the front with his back to Yoda (he often sleeps on that pillow which I keep next to me on the bed just for him really).

So they were fine after but it all seems so incredibly rough to me and I'm worried over time it will escalate or make Charly hate him.
If all is fine (I'm curious to know what you think of the video), then my question would be, is there a way to train them to at least not play that roughly ON me?
 

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Yes I think I edited some parts after you already started responding, I've played with him so much today and he is still full of energy. It's been like a bottomless pit of energy today! Also right after groceries he played again for at least twenty minutes. All in all, it's been hour(s!) Of interactive play for him today, some with Charly around, some individual.

Their behaviour after is pretty much normal except Charly got a bit.. I think just annoyed? Even when Yoda finally laid down he went to whack him once or twice in a sort of "angry" (annoyed manner). He makes this sound when he's annoyed and it sounded like that when he did that. But then he also laid down and they both slept. Also now they're both sleeping on the bed with Charly having his back to him.

Yoda did remind me of my brother today. When he was bored as a kid he would always come bug me😂 tomorrow I'll try giving him a new or different toy on top of the extensive interactive play. I do think the feliway plays a role though. Charly gets super agitated and high strung too when it's out. It's expensive but I've plugged in two now, one in each room.
"Yes I think I edited some parts after you already started responding," - Oh, ok, I better re-read and see if I can find the edits.

I think this was the edit "Don't know what's up with him. He wasn't as interested in cuddles, he usually purrs his head off but today not so much. Just fixated on "hunting" Charly. " - Interesting, good to know.

" I've played with him so much today and he is still full of energy. It's been like a bottomless pit of energy today! Also right after groceries he played again for at least twenty minutes. All in all, it's been hour(s!) Of interactive play for him today, some with Charly around, some individual." - Ok, yes, it is really hard to drain all that energy. :/ I am not surprised. :(

"Their behaviour after is pretty much normal except Charly got a bit.. I think just annoyed?" - Ok

"Even when Yoda finally laid down he went to whack him once or twice in a sort of "angry" (annoyed manner). He makes this sound when he's annoyed and it sounded like that when he did that. " -Ok, probably teaching him some manners.

"But then he also laid down and they both slept. Also now they're both sleeping on the bed with Charly having his back to him." - Ok, and that is really important. So any issues didn't linger. There is no way he would sleep with his back towards him if he didn't trust him.

Just try to help Charly out if it gets too wild but Charly seems to be doing a good job to this point.

"Yoda did remind me of my brother today. When he was bored as a kid he would always come bug me😂 " - Yep :/

"tomorrow I'll try giving him a new or different toy on top of the extensive interactive play." - Good, hopefully it helps.

" I do think the feliway plays a role though. Charly gets super agitated and high strung too when it's out. It's expensive but I've plugged in two now, one in each room." - Great, let's hope it does help.

"This is how it started after my post. Again. However much Charly vocalized Yoda keeps going in. Usually it's a bit less of swatting and more of the full on "biting" and rolling around wildly with Charly making all those noises. " - Ok, let's see.

Video - So it starts cute, submissive, wanting to play, Charly is ok at first then it starts getting rougher. I think Yoda gets a bit frustrated (he wants to play and Charly isn't totally into it). It gets a bit rough (I would call Yoda, try my best to get him to stop and help Charly a touch if possible) but it was resolved. Yoda does not have ill intent but it is pretty rough play. :/

"I got up from the bed but they kept running around and rolling around." - Yep

" Charly also chased him though." - Very interesting.

" About 30 minutes later, after Yoda lay down on the bed, Charly went to have a nap too (he's the one on the left)" - Awwww, so Charly joins him on the bed????

"So he chose to lie quite close to Yoda after all that. " - Exactly. That tells me he is just annoyed with all the play rather than fear of Yoda.

"A few minutes after he readjusted and fell asleep on the pillow at the front with his back to Yoda (he often sleeps on that pillow which I keep next to me on the bed just for him really)." - Awwwwww, not the actions of a fearful cat.

"So they were fine after" - Great

" but it all seems so incredibly rough to me " - IT IS!!! I have two ferals in my colony that are like this. :/

"and I'm worried over time it will escalate or make Charly hate him." - Understandably. But it sees like the trust level and respect is high. It is like with a loved one, sometimes we get upset, angry, etc. But ultimately the trust and love and respect smooth everything over. When we (or animals) don't have that love, respect, trust, etc then a problem is going to happen. So we need to watch them. How do we stop this behavior? Hard for humans so a lot of it is up to Charly to teach Yoda some manners.

"If all is fine (I'm curious to know what you think of the video)," - It is, it is rough but I don't see issues at least yet.

" then my question would be, is there a way to train them to at least not play that roughly ON me? " - It is hard but teach them (Yoda really) that it is unacceptable (so a firm, disappointed "No" THAT doesn't escalate or increase stress or tension). So trying to communicate that is is hurtful to you. I do that all the time and somehow I am able to communicate it well. Cats take on our emotions so I try that avenue. But I will admit, it is hard at times. Sometimes they just have to outgrow it, the other cat needs to get their point across as to what is acceptable and what isn't. I wish I had a better answer.

Maybe try a new post and see what others think?

Try not to worry about what might happen. If we sense anything we will deal with it and we can fix any issues before they become a problem. I do not see them having a start or a beginning to any issue at least so far. Charly has accepted Yoda and loves sure seems to love Charly.
 
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noani

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Yep Charly joined Yoda. Also twice today he went to lie down near him (around lunchtime on his favourite pillow)

IMG_20220109_153944609_HDR.jpg


And later when me and my partner (on my other side) were watching a movie. I played with Yoda for a half hour before that, with a new toy and got him to run around like crazy. Seems to have worked.
IMG_20220109_192257959_HDR.jpg


Also in the morning they spent about two hours in the bedroom together with the door closed while I cleaned the house. They were completely fine.

As for helping out Charly, I really try. Yoda doesn't get distracted much with his name or saying stop when he's fixated on playing with him. The one thing that works to distract him is the feather toy but that was three hours yesterday of constantly distracting him with the feather or he would wiggle and pounce on Charly who was just lying there again. So that's not really sustainable and I do have to go back to work tomorrow, so I'll work on prevention instead (super high energy long play sessions for Yoda to get some of it out) and hope Charly can deal with the rest without resentment building.

That's like my number one worry at the moment. I'm a bit more secure about the fact that they probably aren't going to seriously hurt each other (which I was terrified of initially) but I don't want the annoyance to build into dislike or resentment over time.

I don't know how I could help Charly besides distracting Yoda, but on a day like yesterday that meant distracting for three hours! I don't know if I could train him to stop - he will stop for a second when told stop and seems to understand I don't like it, but then his play drive overtakes him I feel like?
 

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Yep Charly joined Yoda. Also twice today he went to lie down near him (around lunchtime on his favourite pillow)

View attachment 407135

And later when me and my partner (on my other side) were watching a movie. I played with Yoda for a half hour before that, with a new toy and got him to run around like crazy. Seems to have worked.
View attachment 407136

Also in the morning they spent about two hours in the bedroom together with the door closed while I cleaned the house. They were completely fine.

As for helping out Charly, I really try. Yoda doesn't get distracted much with his name or saying stop when he's fixated on playing with him. The one thing that works to distract him is the feather toy but that was three hours yesterday of constantly distracting him with the feather or he would wiggle and pounce on Charly who was just lying there again. So that's not really sustainable and I do have to go back to work tomorrow, so I'll work on prevention instead (super high energy long play sessions for Yoda to get some of it out) and hope Charly can deal with the rest without resentment building.

That's like my number one worry at the moment. I'm a bit more secure about the fact that they probably aren't going to seriously hurt each other (which I was terrified of initially) but I don't want the annoyance to build into dislike or resentment over time.

I don't know how I could help Charly besides distracting Yoda, but on a day like yesterday that meant distracting for three hours! I don't know if I could train him to stop - he will stop for a second when told stop and seems to understand I don't like it, but then his play drive overtakes him I feel like?
"Yep Charly joined Yoda. Also twice today he went to lie down near him (around lunchtime on his favourite pillow)" - Awwwwwwww, REALLY WONDERFUL!!!

"And later when me and my partner (on my other side) were watching a movie. I played with Yoda for a half hour before that, with a new toy and got him to run around like crazy. Seems to have worked." - Perfect!!!

The picture is SERIOUSLY ADORABLE!!!!! 😍

"Also in the morning they spent about two hours in the bedroom together with the door closed while I cleaned the house. They were completely fine." - Awwwww, that is even more impressive since a door closed can cause issues, feeling of loss of territory, freedom, etc.

"As for helping out Charly, I really try." - I know you do, it is really hard.

" Yoda doesn't get distracted much with his name or saying stop when he's fixated on playing with him." - Yes :/

" The one thing that works to distract him is the feather toy but that was three hours yesterday of constantly distracting him with the feather or he would wiggle and pounce on Charly who was just lying there again. So that's not really sustainable and I do have to go back to work tomorrow," - Yes :/

" so I'll work on prevention instead (super high energy long play sessions for Yoda to get some of it out)" - Ok just do your best.

" and hope Charly can deal with the rest without resentment building." - Yes, I think he can.

"That's like my number one worry at the moment. " - Understandable but I don't think you should worry about that at all. Charly is not worried about that given how he is acting and neither is Charly so neither should you. IF you have to we will deal with it.

"I'm a bit more secure about the fact that they probably aren't going to seriously hurt each other (which I was terrified of initially)" - Great. I don't see Yoda as mean or having bad intent. Of course an accident can happen but that is with everything.

"but I don't want the annoyance to build into dislike or resentment over time." - We would have plenty of time to deal with it before it would ever get to that point. I am not at all worried.

"I don't know how I could help Charly besides distracting Yoda, but on a day like yesterday that meant distracting for three hours!" - Yes, maybe he needs to do it instead. If it is too much we will know.

" I don't know if I could train him to stop - he will stop for a second when told stop" - I think you can train him but it will take time.

"and seems to understand I don't like it, - GREAT!!! If Charly shows more forceful dislike then maybe it will help.

" but then his play drive overtakes him I feel like? " - Yep :/ He is a young one full of energy and excitement in having a play buddy brother. :/

I wish I had a good solution but I am not sure there is. The good news it we can deal with anything to avoid real problems. So far Charly understands is is all (annoying most of the time) play. Which is the important thing.
 
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Nothing new to report really. Going well, had my first day back at work. See how they do as I go back to my normal routine after almost a month off (sick leave + holiday leave).

Today, I checked in with the camera a few times. They were...... Drumroll... Sleeping mostly 😂 quite boring but very reassuring.

Things seem calmer around here again. Still some rough play but not as much the last two days. And after they always go to lie down together (I mean quite close to each other on the bed). Look how cute 😻

(First pic Yoda on the left, second and third Charly is on the left)
IMG_20220109_235615405_HDR.jpg

IMG_20220110_141501983.jpg
IMG_20220110_153517486.jpg


Charly joined Yoda for naptime this morning. Also last night when I went to bed, the lay down on either side of my legs snuggling up to me.

While I was out, they slept pretty much the same as in the pics - very close. And I believe (hard to tell through cam) Yoda was the one to lie down first and Charly joining him.

I also caught Yoda using Charly's litter box after I came home! Not sure if this is even the first time. I'll put out a third box to be safe for tonight but he didn't protest, just watched him go. I'm curious to see if Charly will continue using it. If they were to want to share a litterbox that would be an absolute dream given how very small my place is. But if not no biggie either. Just curious now 🐱
 

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Nothing new to report really. Going well, had my first day back at work. See how they do as I go back to my normal routine after almost a month off (sick leave + holiday leave).

Today, I checked in with the camera a few times. They were...... Drumroll... Sleeping mostly 😂 quite boring but very reassuring.

Things seem calmer around here again. Still some rough play but not as much the last two days. And after they always go to lie down together (I mean quite close to each other on the bed). Look how cute 😻

(First pic Yoda on the left, second and third Charly is on the left)
View attachment 407262
View attachment 407263View attachment 407264

Charly joined Yoda for naptime this morning. Also last night when I went to bed, the lay down on either side of my legs snuggling up to me.

While I was out, they slept pretty much the same as in the pics - very close. And I believe (hard to tell through cam) Yoda was the one to lie down first and Charly joining him.

I also caught Yoda using Charly's litter box after I came home! Not sure if this is even the first time. I'll put out a third box to be safe for tonight but he didn't protest, just watched him go. I'm curious to see if Charly will continue using it. If they were to want to share a litterbox that would be an absolute dream given how very small my place is. But if not no biggie either. Just curious now 🐱
"Nothing new to report really. Going well," - Great

" had my first day back at work." - Yes :) Welcome back!!

" See how they do as I go back to my normal routine after almost a month off (sick leave + holiday leave)." - Yes, they are going to realize how spoiled they were. ;)

"Today, I checked in with the camera a few times. They were...... Drumroll... Sleeping mostly 😂 quite boring but very reassuring." - Awwwwwwwwwww

"Things seem calmer around here again. Still some rough play but not as much the last two days. " - Great

"And after they always go to lie down together (I mean quite close to each other on the bed). Look how cute 😻" That is what is so telling.

(First pic Yoda on the left, second and third Charly is on the left)

Those pictures are ADORABLE!!!!! :)

They look so much alike...................................

"Charly joined Yoda for naptime this morning. Also last night when I went to bed, the lay down on either side of my legs snuggling up to me." - Awwwwww, how sweet!!!!

"While I was out, they slept pretty much the same as in the pics - very close. And I believe (hard to tell through cam) Yoda was the one to lie down first and Charly joining him." - Awwwwwwwwww, terrific!!

"I also caught Yoda using Charly's litter box after I came home! Not sure if this is even the first time." - Awwww, probably not the first time.

" I'll put out a third box to be safe for tonight" - Sounds good

"but he didn't protest, just watched him go." - Great

" I'm curious to see if Charly will continue using it." - I am sure he will.

" If they were to want to share a litterbox that would be an absolute dream given how very small my place is. But if not no biggie either. Just curious now 🐱 " - Yes. But it never hurts to have at least 3 litter boxes for 2 cats.

I am so proud of you and Charly and Yoda. :)
 
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  • #157

noani

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Stil playing rough but Charly some of the time doesn't vocalize anymore and they roll around together, taking turns a bit more and no sounds. So looks like he's also really starting to enjoy it, except sometimes when it's annoying when he wants to chill.

They now use both litter boxes jointly, the third one hasn't been touched (same litter).

Also:
IMG_20220113_134638915.jpg

Yoda above, Charly below in pic.

How adorable. My heart melted. First time I've seen them like this 😻 they've hung out together being close by, but nothing like this.
 

calicosrspecial

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Stil playing rough but Charly some of the time doesn't vocalize anymore and they roll around together, taking turns a bit more and no sounds. So looks like he's also really starting to enjoy it, except sometimes when it's annoying when he wants to chill.

They now use both litter boxes jointly, the third one hasn't been touched (same litter).

Also:
View attachment 407600
Yoda above, Charly below in pic.

How adorable. My heart melted. First time I've seen them like this 😻 they've hung out together being close by, but nothing like this.
"Stil playing rough" - Yep, boys..................... :/

" but Charly some of the time doesn't vocalize anymore" - WOW!!!! THAT is GREAT!!!

" and they roll around together, taking turns a bit more and no sounds. So looks like he's also really starting to enjoy it," - Awwwwwwww

" except sometimes when it's annoying when he wants to chill." - Yep, the annoying little brother......................

"They now use both litter boxes jointly, the third one hasn't been touched (same litter). " - Awwwwwwwww

Picture - Awwwwwwwww, think they love each other?????? 😍

"Yoda above, Charly below in pic." - Wow, I thought it was the other way around. Even better!!!

"How adorable. My heart melted." - TOTALLY :purr:

"First time I've seen them like this 😻 they've hung out together being close by, but nothing like this. " - Awwwwwwwwwwww 😍
 

calicosrspecial

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Stil playing rough but Charly some of the time doesn't vocalize anymore and they roll around together, taking turns a bit more and no sounds. So looks like he's also really starting to enjoy it, except sometimes when it's annoying when he wants to chill.

They now use both litter boxes jointly, the third one hasn't been touched (same litter).

Also:
View attachment 407600
Yoda above, Charly below in pic.

How adorable. My heart melted. First time I've seen them like this 😻 they've hung out together being close by, but nothing like this.
How is everyone doing? I am guessing just fine but wanted to check in. :) I miss their adorableness!!!
 
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noani

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I actually typed a post a couple days ago but then I forgot. So they are doing pretty well. The camera shows they usually basically just sleep when I'm away.

They eat together, play with each other and are usually together. They've taken to getting up on top of the wardrobe for naps (one of Charly's favourite spots but he lets Yoda come along) or on the bed together when I'm out. Sometimes under the table on adjoining chairs.

They're basically either both up exploring or playing, or both sleeping near each other Charly hardly ever vocalized anymore when they're playing rough and he's becoming more pouncy as well. He's learning how to cat wrestle from Yoda I guess. He seems fine with it though as their playing has turned into mainly silent wrestling and there are almost no swats or anything anymore. Just a little sometimes but he does think he's king of the universe and will do that to us too if we dare to want to get the remote while he's sitting on it so... Nothing out of the ordinary.

I've noticed a few tiny scratches on them behind the ears (minuscule really) and a couple spots with less fur on the nose, so I'm trying to manage that by clipping even more regularly now. There have been two intense wrestling matches with fur flying which I hadn't seen before but they went to sleep together a few minutes after. Apparently they like it rough.. I just want to prevent accidental injury, Im sure neither of them wants to inflict injury because they are back to being bros after, but it could always happen accidentally so I'd rather prevent possibile injury. Not sure if I should intervene more but I wouldn't want scolding to create any negative associations and they both seem to love it, so as soon as I turn my back they go back at it usually.

They are out together full time, the longest they were alone was probably around 8 hours in the day and once 10 or 11 but most of it was during night time (Im finally back to socializing sometimes (as much as is possible with COVID anyways) after months of kitty care as a full time occupation besides my normal job.)

theyve adjusted to my schedule very well and sleep with me every night. They don't wake me up anymore, Yoda is getting a bit more of a PITA in that he seems like a frickin kitten chewing on things, trying to get into cupboards, so I'm breaking out my kitten proofing stuff from when Charly was a baby. No biggie though. Overall seems to be adjusting decently to being indoors. Endless energy (like a kitten I swear! Charly was like that for a good 6-8 months) so as much play as possible (2-3 times per day high energy interactive play for 10,15 mins). He has learned a bedtime routine similar to Charly's and part of it overlaps (licking a coat & skin health treat from a tube) and they are cute. Maybe I could try and get a video sometime. They both love it like crazy but respectfully take turns. It's adorable. Charly has known the routine for ages and it helps that after that, he goes to lie down on my legs as soon as lights are off. Yoda has been following his lead and had now also started associating the routine with bedtime for the human, let's cuddle up. So sometimes he'll lie down before Charly now :) and then Charly still goes to lie close to him.

it's still probably 80/20 on who follows who, who shows interest in who (can you guess? I bet you can) and who lies next to who. Charly is accepting yoda's advances more and more though. He is unbothered when he lies down next to or touching him, he doesn't hiss or swat when they walk past each other brushing up against each other ,(due to space, not for touching purposes), or when Yoda comes up close to him to sniff around. He seems to love sniffing Charly everywhere, which he mostly tolerates. Also lots of nose touching. He even lets Yoda sniff him while going to the litter box.. and he is fine with Yoda using his box. Yoda uses both but Charly's more than the other one. Charly hasn't used his as far as I'm aware. I took away the third box after weeks of it being untouched.

they're off the zylkene now for the most part, although feliway remains and probably will. Charly being an anxious skittish cat I've had the classic basically since he was maybe six months old.

Individual play has become increasingly hard, if I put Yoda in the bedroom so Charly can play (he doesn't really get into it with Yoda around, I guess he still feels on guard a bit sometimes), he will sit in front of the door until I let his brother come out again. Yoda doesn't care if Charly is around, he'll go nuts for his feather toy either way, where Charly wouldn't get into it (he likes chasing his stuffed animals attached to a fishing pole and proper biting and bunny kicking the heck out of them usually). So I've been working on a way to have them play in different areas (one on floor and one on bed) with wand toys, which requires coordination but it's working. Charly is slowly becoming more comfortable and plays with Yoda around, although he seems quite vigilant (not unusual even pre Yoda when playing, but more so now) and sometimes they play for very short times together on the bed with their individual toys. Charly gets a couple bunny kicks in then he goes back to being a bit wary but we're getting there. I'm being careful though because Charly is prone to lashing out when hyped up playing (not sure if that counts as play aggression or redirected, but it's happened to me a few times before I learned the signs and it was painful and probably the most blood he's drawn was during hyper play mode and me getting my stupid hands or feet or his reach). Although I guess cats have thicker skin and a couple times its happened to Yoda that he was caught in the middle of that. He's always utterly unfazed by it as with all of Charly's swats, hits, etc.

It's so precious when they both come to cuddle. They are so different but I love both of their characters (my boyfriend has dubbed Charly grumpy old dude which I have to agree fits well but I love him for it and just go with what he feels comfortable with and giving him his space when he's like that).

Charly has returned fully to his previous routines (jumping on sink to be brushed when I come out of the shower, jumping up when I sit down in the evening for some cuddles and head butts, coming ti lie down on my chest if he wakes up mid nap).he hadn't really been doing it much during the early stages of Yoda being out but has now slowly returned to his usual routines.

Thank you so much for all the help in getting us to this place.

Some recent pics coming up.
 
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