Welcome, Peter!

Peter the Great, a six-month old tiger kitty came to stay with us on Tuesday. His first parent couldn't take care of him, and that was followed by two homes with resident cats who wouldn't tolerate a newcomer. He was being fostered for a couple weeks when we heard the "tail" of this little kitty who needed a forever home. (At right: Curious Peter gets up close and personal with the camera).

We agreed to take him on a week-long trial basis to see if our Murphy would get along with another cat. Murphy is a young male, but we don't know if he had been with other cats prior to when we took him in (both boys are neutered in case you're curious).

I had a special safe room all ready for Peter when he arrived Tuesday night. Murphy camped outside the room, very curious and excited. After a couple hours, my husband opened the door - not my plan, but it just happened - and Murphy rushed in.

HE FROZE. I expected hissing and spatting, but Peter sat patiently while Murphy investigated him.

Peter did all the right things that a non-dominant cat should do ... but Murphy thinks he's people so he didn't really understand any of this ritual. (At left, Murphy is watching Peter lay on the ground.)

Fast-forward a mere 24-hours and they were sleeping on the same bed together, eating out of the same dish, and rough housing all around the house. I've heard hissing about twice, but I think this is because they get so wound up when playing, and sometimes Murphy doesn't know what to make of Peter's kitten bravado ... in fact, we get treated to 5 a.m. and 5 p.m. chase scenes every day. Quite a ruckus with two galloping cats on wood floors! Murphy seems to give the little cat the cold shoulder when he tries to cuddle up to him, but today I caught Murphy lovingly licking his new pal on the head. (At right: The first night, the two bonded over a delicious cricket. A good match - Murphy likes the body, Peter likes the legs. Gross.)


So a happy ending indeed, and I'm very glad to report Peter is now a permanent family member. (Below: The boys share a mutual love for food.)