Cuddly Pets

It has long been Casey's dream to see our pets curl up together on a cold winter's day. When we first introduced Trekker and Zima a short 3 years ago, I never thought I would see the day. All I remember is Trekker drooling with anticipation as Casey held him back from chasing Zima all over the room (and doing who knows what with her if he ever would have been given opportunity). Zima was wise to treat Trekker with hostility. That was phase 1. At that point, I was uncertain that our pets would ever even be able to live together under the same roof.

Phase 2 of the relationship took place with Zima on Casey's lap and Trekker (still overly eager) sniffing at Zima. In response, Zima batted at Trekker's nose, causing Trekker to sneeze-snort, but not providing enough of a deterrent that Trekker would get out of her business. This phase continued for several months. Zima would hiss and bat at Trekker's nose. Trekker would sneeze-snort, but continue to come back for more. At this point, Trekker did not seem to want to eat Zima anymore, but regarded her with much curiosity and intrigue. Progress! On the other hand, Zima still regarded Trekker with open hostility. Wise cat!

Phase 3: By the time we got married, we were fairly certain that there was no danger of Trekker eating or otherwise seriously harming Zima. We put up a gate in the doorway of the guest bedroom to keep Trekker from getting to Zima's food and kitty litter. Zima could jump over the gate to come and go at will, but Trekker was not allowed in the guest bedroom. Zima seemed to enjoy having her own space. She often sat just on the other side of the gate and taunted Trekker. Still no cuddling, but they were becoming much more amiable. Even Zima seemed to warm up to Trekker. In fact, it almost seemed that the tables were turning. There were moments when Zima would approach Trekker from behind, as if to sniff his tail. Trekker, upon noticing Zima, would jump back, almost in fear of Zima's curiosity.

Phase 4 (current day). Our pets can finally be coaxed to nap in close proximity to one another. Usually, Trekker is curled up unaware, and Zima quietly makes her way closer and closer. It should be noted that Trekker is not normally allowed to sleep on the bed. But that is for another blog entry. They have yet to voluntarily cuddle, but Casey has plans make that a reality (He wants to turn the heat down
while we are gone on a particularly cold day in hopes that they will seek one another for warmth. I think he is crazy.).