QUEEN OF THE CASTLE: LEIA FINDS HER PLACE

Dancer and choreographer Liz Kessler always wanted a dog as a companion. She was looking for a black cat at an animal shelter in Tallahassee, Florida. A fan of underdogs—or "undercats"—always thought that white dogs, despite their notorious lack of luck, were good. But it was the brown and white tabby kitten sitting next to the volunteer that caught her eye and ultimately stole her heart.

The volunteers kept a close watch on the little barn cat because they weren’t sure how he got along with the other pets.

Kessler thought she was pretty with her white socks, but volunteers at the shelter warned her that the dog, whom Kessler named Leia, might not be warm. She was very wary of men, and it was clear that something tragic might have happened to her when she was so young.

"They didn't know his background. He's always been on the lookout," says Kessler.

A New Home

Undeterred, Kessler took Leia home. He most likely stayed with his dog walker or ran and hid. He gradually coaxed Leia out of her shell; Over time, they built a strong bond. Kessler, who calls herself an "other person" who can take the time to open up to others, felt they were kindred spirits.

"It's basically me as a dog," Kessler says. "He's the most affectionate dog after he's warmed up to you."

Leia is happiest curled up on Kessler’s lap or on an enclosed apartment patio. Leia turned 4 in 2021. Kessler says she looks very mature and confident. While she knew the transition could be hard for Leia, she also thought having a boyfriend could be healthier.

A New Brother

Kessler still wanted to adopt the black cat she’d always wanted, and when she saw one in a cat cafe, she couldn’t say no. Kessler brought home the friendly and outgoing Spock. Knowing Leia's story, Kessler has tread carefully and done extensive research on what to do when you find another cat and the right way to introduce cats to each other. She kept them apart and gently introduced them.

Still, it did not go well .

"Spock is very friendly, she instantly wanted to be her best friend, and Leia is not like that at all," Kessler said.

Leia began to move nervously again. When Spock tried to interact with her she would run and hide. Leia started to look withdrawn.

"For a while, I was so nervous that it wouldn't work out and Leia wouldn't be possible. I even talked my parents into taking Spock if this didn't work out, " Kessler said.

A New Balance with Comfort Zone

Kessler began using Comfort Zone Spray & Scratch Control Calming Cat Spray to create a calming environment for both cats. She sprayed them in their dog’s carrier to relieve them during travel and to prevent spraying or sniffing them at home.

The spray uses drug-free pheromone technology that mimics the pheromones released by cats, indicating that the area is safe and secure. (It’s like sending a signal with the cat’s mouth telling her she’s safe and can relax.)

Leia used the Comfort Zone and started doing better within two weeks. She became more assertive and introduced herself as the "queen of the house," Kessler said. She has stopped hiding and is more loving.

"I was able to hold her again. And I notice that Leia often turns her back to Spock, indicating that she's not that concerned about what he's doing," Kessler said.

Kessler says she's confident they're good friends, even if they're not.

"I caught Leia grooming him. So I think their dynamic is in a good place."

A power structure has been established, which means more harmony for everyone in the house.