It's highly unusual to see Johnny Cash Cat emerge from the feed room in the light of day.
His confidence is growing in direct proportion to his collection of trophies.
That is, until he hears Smooch bark.
Johnny: One of these days I'll march over to that fence and give that dog a taste of her own medicine!
Johnny: But for now, I'll just sit back and watch her...
...while I plot my next move.
What a handsome fella :)
ReplyDelete"Desensitize":
ReplyDelete1. Put a towel in Johnny's bed. When he's slept on it once, take towel and rub Johnny's scent on Smooch while giving her treats and lots of praise. Let her sniff towel, put it in her bed... Repeat (with fresh towel in J's bed so as not to spook him!) until Smooch is actually looking forward to Johnny's scent...
2. Lead Smooch briefly past the kitty door (when J is sleeping), let her pick up the scent while praising and giving treats. No need to repeat.
3. Try to be near Smooch when Johnny comes out. Stop her barking with a quick touch (fingertips) to her shoulder, just hard enough to get her attention. Show her treat. When she is quiet for a few seconds, give treat. Repeat as needed; she should learn *very quickly* that Johnny is a new member of your pack/herd, and a desirable one at that. :)
Them's some crazy eyes! You're lucky you are bigger than a mouse. You have inspired me to get a mouser of my own. Barn first, Barn Cat second.
ReplyDeleteNice "halloween kitty" shot! :D
ReplyDeleteCats are so smart.
ReplyDeleteBest always,
Love the big scaredy cat tail photo. He's one handsome dude!
ReplyDeleteHandsome Johnny. Let us know the results if you try the desensitizing.
ReplyDeleteDoes June Cash cat come out of the feed room and pussy foot around ? ;p
ReplyDeleteawesome photos of Johnny Cash.. love the arched back and the fluffed tail...
ReplyDeleteI love it when cats puff up and their tails double in size. He is one handsome cat.
ReplyDeleteP.S. If "desensitizing" Smooch is too much bother, simply wait another few days and (presumably) the barking will subside on its own... and everybody will start relaxing anyhow. ;)
ReplyDeleteHe is so very handsome!
ReplyDeletehandsome, well mannered and sweet at the same time, lucky you!
ReplyDeleteWhen a long slim drink of water like Johnny Cash Cat arches that back of his, its really something to see, isn't it? Pretty, even.
ReplyDeleteDon't get too cocky though, John!
Cheers,
Jo, Stella and Zkhat
Awesome display at the feed room door! He has me convinced.
ReplyDeletewell I would desensitize because I think Johnny will always be the intruder for Smooch, she is too serious about her role (and moreover they haven't been introduced)
ReplyDeleteOh, he's handsome! And, that shot of him as Halloween Kitty is a classic. Everyone will settle in and get used to each other eventually - I never thought it would happen around our house, but it did.
ReplyDeletepurdy kitten cat....that Johnny Cash. Big, don't mess with me tail and all. Oma Linda
ReplyDeleteGlad to see his growing confidence and prowl expertise. May he live long and wisely.
ReplyDeleteJust keep reminding yourself--outdoor kitties don't live forever. But they do live their lives wonderfully, joyfully, and purposefully! He is so beautiful and obviously so very happy. Great decision to bring him into your life. May there be many more ...........
ReplyDelete