The Unusual Qualities of Zeke, Tamba & Figaro

Zeke demonstrated exceptional sensitivity and awareness while in his crate and interacting with my cats.  He observed their expressions and reacted with submission.  When Tamba’s “death stare” didn’t change as a result of him bowing, he continued to lower his head until it was on the crate floor.  A key component to his introduction to his new cat siblings, is that his cat siblings happen to be “educated,” as felines take offense to being “trained.”  They have spent the majority of their lives hiking with Mom & without a leash!  To accomplish this feat, both cats have to learn how to trust Mom when facing the canine species “in the wild.”  They were told to remain calm in front of Zeke.

During the adoption phase, Tamba & Figaro were introduced to a greyhound ambassador in our home.  For that introduction, the ambassador greyhound was muzzled.  Tamba & Figaro were required to meet the greyhound by Mom, like it or want it or not!  This is extremely unusual feline behavior from non-dog-loving cats.  Most cats will need several months to come to terms with their new sibling!  Only cats who love dogs will greet a greyhound in the first month... and even so, the greyhound should be muzzled for the safety of your cat!

Zeke was under close supervision while learning to interact with the cats.  An escape plan for the cats was in place at all times.  He began interacting with the cats within his first 3 weeks.  Each cat seems to have its own plan!  They both spent a lot of

time observing Zeke from the stairwell.  And also when Zeke was in his crate.  And much closer to Zeke but near Mom when Zeke napped in his doggie bed!  Figaro was fairly comfortable around Zeke within the first month.  Tamba became more comfortable around Zeke some time in the 2nd month.  Figaro was quicker to be at ease with him inside the house.  More vigilant when outside the house.  Tamba was much slower to be at ease with Zeke inside the house, but very comfortable with him outside!  Go figure?  5 months later, neither cat is buddy-buddy with Zeke.  But they do let him sniff them.  And Zeke now sleeps upstairs in the bedroom with the whole enchilada!  He has his “Good-night” doggie bed upstairs.  And the cats are comfortable sleeping in the same room.

Even more unusual is that Zeke is 100% trustworthy while in the great outdoors  & off-lead with Tamba, Figaro and respectful to strange kitties too!  He tried to play chase with Figaro one morning...  The neighbor’s dogs got him

in the mood.  But when I called him to stop, he obeyed immediately!  Not another attempt since.  And Figaro is still fine spying on Zeke in the yard.  Again, this may not be the case with ANY greyhound.

Zeke’s good manners were consistently rewarded with the best treats!  However, his personal adjustments all derived from his own observations of Tamba & Figaro’s reactions.  He really does pay close attention to both how the cats react to his gestures as well as when Mom explains the differences between “Mao-Maos” and “Woof-Woofs.”  Truly amazing that he got it!