Need advice on getting cat aquainted with a new pet

So my girlfriend and I got a chinchilla and we have put his cage up on top or a dresser in our bedroom. The only problem is that the cat has her food and litter box in there as well....should we move the Chinchilla or just wait until the cat works up the courage to reenter the bedroom. Any helpful advice would be great. My email is [email protected] thanks!

Matt

A Chinchilla isn't that a rodent of some variety!



Although a well fed cat with a laid back temperament may not even be remotely interested you must keep in mind a rodent is a cat's natural prey and make decisions accordingly until there has been sufficient time to be certain that your kitty won't see your new addition as a "play thing".

Cats are curious by nature so the additional cage may frighten your cat initially but sooner or later chances are your kitty will come to check out the new addition. According to literature the reaction will have a lot to do with your kitty's hunting drive. Avid hunters may take more than a passing interest where a cat who isn't really interested in hunting may not even bother messing with the chinchilla however the initial reaction of fear may not be perminate.

I would supervise the introduction of these two very closely.

I would not leave the chinchilla where the cat could have access to it's cage when you are not home.

Well last night we actually made some progress. The cat came into the bedroom and actually got into bed with us (something that she does all the time) she is still hissing every now and then but at least she is eating and using her litter box.

Lol, your cat is afraid of it? Is that what I understood?

I'm very surprized the cat didn't want to eat it! My little sister had a couple of chinchillas a few years back!

Just give your kitty some more time. I'm sure she'll adjust just fine! Next you'll be on here asking how you keep your kitty from knocking down the cage!