thanks for replying. I found it very helpful and it gave me some useful pointers. I just need something cleared up though. In your reply, you talk about "after a while", particularly with regards to confining Vesuvius. Just wondering... how long is a while? What's the best time this should continue for? Sorry but I just want to be clear on what you mean. Thanks again for replying. Much appreciated.
Take care
Athena
RESPONSE:
Initially, when Vesuvius is in the carrier, 10 to 30 minutes is usually plenty for the other pets to do the sniff test. The length of time to confine any new kitten or cat in the confinement room really depends on the cat. If little Vesuvius seems quite relaxed and very curious to explore then a day or two may be all that's needed. If Vesuvius seems shy, timid or scared, it may take a couple of weeks. Just use your best judgment. Some of the kittens we have had are so confident that we only confine them the first night and then when no people are at home simply for their own safety! Others we have kept confined for up to a month before they were comfortable enough to leave the confinement room. We would leave the door open so they were free to come and go but the shy ones can take a while before they will venture out. The confident ones run right out and start looking for trouble immediately! Our suggestions are just some things to keep in mind while everyone adjusts to their new environment. You may find that Vesuvius adapts quite easily and that Sophia and Toona take to her right away. As long as Vesuvius knows where the litter box is, the house is kitten-proofed as best as possible, and Sophia and Toona are comfortable with Vesuvius and you don't feel they will hurt her (even accidentally!), then after the first night, let her run free and just sit back and enjoy the show! If Vesuvius seems scared or Sophia and Toona seem uncomfortable, make the confinement time longer and integrate her more slowly. Let us know how it goes!
