If she hadn't spoken up, she definitely would still parse as an insect to his brain, something to either be bundled up and sent to one of the ranches outside of the nearby city, or just swatted. Neither of which would be ideal for her, all considered, even if the Insect Ranchers are generally very nice.

"It's good to meet you, Fio. I was kinda busy before you showed up, but you can hang around it you wanna. You can keep the cat company." The cat makes a sound like bwaa when he acknowledges it.