WOW!! This post is generating a lot of fuss!*
First off....Congrats on ur new family member
I know that you started this thread because you were looking for honest opinions, and BOY did u get them. Haha.*
From my personal experience over the last 15 years of having tanks (and always having cats and dogs at the same time too) - I think it really boils down to each individual animal. From reading some of the other posts, it would appear that I've had really good luck. That being said, I also think a lot of the cats prolonged behavior regarding the tank (and other bad habits around the house) has to do with how YOU originally approach it. When Ninja gets too close to the tank (or any other place deemed off limits) *pick him up and relocate him. Preoccupy his furry little thoughts elsewhere with a toy or a scratch post. If he continues his naughty behavior, *let him know he's being bad with a firm NO. I know its a repetitive *experience, but he'll get it. The water gun works for discipline provided its used in moderation and not in his little face. You will get to a point where you only have to
show Ninja the sprayer. He'll back right off. I didn't look at your profile to see if you have a canopy. I have one for peace of mind. I've never seen my guys up there, but who knows what happens when im not home. The canopy gives me peace of mind, I know that cat and tank are both safe. If not, the egg crate is an awesome alternative. Also if you have a sump or refuge, make sure it's not accessible. Kittens will play with almost anything. Lol.*
I also noticed you have a collar on him. Please make sure it's a quick release collar. Kittens are inquisitive - its simply in their nature. He WILL get into things and if his collar gets caught up on something (tank related or otherwise) he could seriously injure himself. I worked in a vet clinic and saw this happen over and over again. *One more little note regarding all of the kitty litter talk... Your kitten will not pee in a dirty litter box. If its not clean he might use a plant, a sink ect ect. Cats are very clean animals. (I don't know about you people, but when I go to use a bathroom and there's a big mess in it, I go to the next stall) Same thing with cats. Oh, and get a scratch post or two. They NEED a place to practice what comes naturally to them. I you don't provide them with one, they will improvise.*
On a personal note (unrelated to the original thread) I'm pretty surprised how many ppl on this forum had bad things to say about cats. The question that Rice Reef asked was 'Hey...do cats and tank gel' not 'Hey, anyone out there got a list of what u hate about cats???' Lol.*It is true that there are some problematic cats out there, but that goes for any species alive. Dog, cat, birds and I know I've had more than one fish reak havvock on my tank too.*
I thought most of us were interested in the wonderful world of reefing not only to *have a cool looking tank in our house, but more importantly because we get to experience and learn about the beauty of all of the LIFE in there?? I love all *living creatures out there. Cats and fish alike. Every 'animal' has individual beauty and knowledge to offer to us. Heck, throw a gerbil, a bird and a lizard in the mix too. Lions, and Tigers and Bears oh my. Hehe
Lastly, ENJOY ur kitty. If you are a responsible pet owner from the get-go, the rewards will be amazing.*