DR BRUCE CHARD

contact@northharbourvet.co.nz I have an 11-year-old cat, Toby, who is a grazer when eating. Nessie is a new arrival and she scoffs her food and then stands over Toby until he moves aside and then she eats his food too. Now Nessie is quite porky. How should I manage their meal time?

You have to move to separate feeding locations for each cat. The most effective way would be to feed Toby in a room by himself and keep the door closed for 30 minutes. Once you let him out keep unfinished food separate to offer later. Have a set routine and feed both cats the same time twice a day. Nessie needs to have a measured amount of food and possibly a diet for weight loss now. Another method may be to feed Toby in a small cage but he would probably be more comfortable not having Nessie able to see him eat, as her dominance could intimidate him.

We have a 12-year-old cat, Millie, who is set in her ways. Our daughter is moving back home with a 14-week-old poodle cross puppy. How do we introduce the puppy to Millie?

It may take some time but eventually Millie should reach an accommodation with the newcomer. Start by ensuring Millie has her safe place in the house where the puppy does not go. If you have two levels place a baby gate at the bottom of the stairs and the upper level can be her safe place. Alternatively have a separate room for her food, litter tray and toys and lots of high places where she can be safe. The puppy should be trained to use a crate for sleeping and rest time during the day. Allow close contact only with supervision. Use treats to train the puppy. Trim Millie’s front nails to avoid any scratches to the face of the puppy. Give quality time to both pets separately.