Making the bedroom into Imogen’s safe-space has proven successful. The other cats are permitted in, of course, except for Brazil, and this has allowed them slowly to encroach, and reduce, Imo’s antagonism toward them. But there was still a problem with play-time.
With the door open, the younger cats kept rushing in to wrestle with the string-toy I use to entice Imogen. As a result, Miss Silky was most reluctant to play, as it meant interaction with the others, with the highly probably chance of physical contact. I decided that, at least during play-time, the door to the bedroom would be closed, and Imogen could have some fun without interruption.
It has worked. Before Brazil’s advent, Imo would leap and twist and pounce when fighting the string-toy. That exuberance disappeared upon Shimmer’s arrival, and even the semi-refuge of the kitchen cabinets didn’t reproduce it. Last evening, though, Imogen jumped and rolled after the string-toy, assured by the fact that she was alone with me. (Well, Renn was on the bed, too, but, as I have mentioned, he plays but rarely, and slept - or tried to - through all of Imo’s fun. He doesn’t bother her in any case.)
This separate game-time adds still more to my schedule, but it’s worth it to see Imo put some effort into her playing again. I don’t think it impossible that she will one day play with others, but for now, this will have to do. And for now, it does well.
Imogen's progress, part of Dr. John's high-level, long haul approach to cat development. YAY!
ReplyDeleteI'll echo that! You have immense patience and caring, and Imogen is in the best hands. 🙂
ReplyDeleteVery glad to see the young girl playing so avidly. She's way too youthful to give up the fun because of other house guests. And Renn, poor boy, hope he can sleep through any of the rough housing going on.
ReplyDeleteI never asked you about her current situation because as with the rest of us here, I knew Imogen would not languish long on the cabinets. I knew you would think of something.
ReplyDeleteThat is a big bed for one little cat to enjoy laying on without having to share it with other cats.
ReplyDeleteIt is very good to hear that Imogen is once again playing exuberantly.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the other commenters: you have a real gift for dealing with tricky cat situations. They are a very lucky group.
ReplyDeleteThat's really terrific and everyone is enjoying a fun time!
ReplyDeleteHow good to know she wants to play...albeit on her terms.
ReplyDeleteImogen is in the right place, where you care for her needs as she prefers.
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