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how can i help my cat adjust?

galaxy chef

we were living in a rental property this summer and adopted an abandoned cat who the landlord believed belonged to the previous tenants. the kitty had worms and weighed about 8 lbs, but he was fixed. we got him his fiv test, shots, etc. "chef" was very loving and grateful. he maintained a lot of independence, still coming and going as he pleased, but it was clear that he wanted to be with us. then we got a puppy which the cat never really liked, but the two seemed to be working it out until we moved. since then(about 1 month) the cat has not been the same. he HATES the dog, wont leave the closet if the dog is out of his kennel, and he no longer gets to spend a good portion of time roaming the land he knows and loves. in fact, he won't go outside at all. he is now a litter box kitty. he hasn't lost any weight or pulled out any fur, but he doesn't seem happy. how can i help him adjust and get back to being the vivacious kitty that he was?

• Experienced Advisor Rosie Barclay says:

  February 03rd, 2008 at 12:40 PM

  Hi
  Have you moved to another area totally? If so the cat has got to get used to not only new internal surroundings but new out door ones as well. Then there is the puppy to contend with. I would make sure he has somewhere to retreat  which is puppy free and begin to gradually scent the surrounding area with a blanket/towel that has the cats smell on it (one he sleeps on). Begin with rubbing the towel over areas close to him and slowly over days and weeks increase the area. Cats live in a world of scent so this will help him begin to become familiar with his new environment. Don’t make too much of a fuss about it all and don’t try to lure him out all the time. Regarding the new puppy if every time they happen to meet make sure nice things happen, for instance a fun game for pup away from cat and cat is rewarded with a really tasty treat. Cats can take a little time to adjust so make it a positive experience.
  Hope this helps and if the situation hasn’t changes in a few months seek help from your local recommended behaviourist.
  Rosie Barclay

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