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9. Attack of the Cat
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Sebastian, meet everyone. everyone, meet Sebastian! When he was the sole animal in the house, he was the black cat living a very contented and peaceful existence. He is, however, also the cat that has recently acquired a small sister; it is reasonable to assume that he is finding adaptation difficult. Neither do we attribute blame to him. Though the white kitten is the most beautiful creature we have ever seen, its small feline fangs can be lethal.
Fortunately, Sebastien seems to be walking through the whole scenario in his stride. Before he lays down the law and teaches his little sister the guidelines, he is allowing her some fun. It is usually tricky to introduce a new kitten into the territory of an existing cat, and Sebastian's circumstances are no exception. Once-pampered lone child of the feline universe now serves as reluctant big brother. Beautiful and instructive is the picture of the small white kitten joyfully "attacking" the more refined Sebastian. It highlights the extreme difference between Sebastian's measured restraint and the kitten's unbounded vitality. Social growth of cats depends on this interaction as well. For the kitten, it's a chance to pick up appropriate cat behavior, social signs, and limits. For Sebastian, it's an opportunity to cultivate patience, leadership, and maybe even nurturing impulses. Sebastian's evident discomfort notwithstanding allows this play, which says volumes about his temperament and flexibility. With Sebastian serving as mentor and guardian to his active little sister, this relationship is probably going to develop into a close one over time. Family dynamics can be complicated, demanding, and finally fulfilling even in the animal realm.
