Cat rant

[ThePrincessLuxy]

These awesome little signs I'm making keep falling off the wall and this stupid cat I'm babysitting for the year keeps DESTROYING them.

:-x Anybody need a free cat?!

He:
-is really ugly.
-is really mean.
-is a weird cat mouth breather
-doesn't clean himself so he reeks.
-sheds all over everything and rips his hair out
-pisses on your bed if he's mad.
-will jump up all over your counters and beg for water from the sink even though his water bowl is full.
-will purposely spill the water bowl over.
-bites if you try to touch him
-refuses to run away and never come back
-will find a way to open the door when you are pooping and then run away, especially loves to do this when guests are over.

 

[JerryBoBerry]

He:
-is really ugly.
-is really mean.
-is a weird cat mouth breather
-doesn't clean himself so he reeks.
-sheds all over everything and rips his hair out
-pisses on your bed if he's mad.
-will jump up all over your counters and beg for water from the sink even though his water bowl is full.
-will purposely spill the water bowl over.
-bites if you try to touch him
-refuses to run away and never come back
-will find a way to open the door when you are pooping and then run away, especially loves to do this when guests are over.

Isn't this the description of 'Cat' in general? Sounds like every one I've ever known. :lol:

 

[Shaun__]

The cat sounds very stressed, and that can cause a lot of that kind of behavior. Being in a strange home, around other people is hard on most cats. Or that particular cat could just be a jerk.

 

[krukstyle]

These awesome little signs I'm making keep falling off the wall and this stupid cat I'm babysitting for the year keeps DESTROYING them.

:-x Anybody need a free cat?!

He:
-is really ugly.
-is really mean.
-is a weird cat mouth breather
-doesn't clean himself so he reeks.
-sheds all over everything and rips his hair out
-pisses on your bed if he's mad.
-will jump up all over your counters and beg for water from the sink even though his water bowl is full.
-will purposely spill the water bowl over.
-bites if you try to touch him
-refuses to run away and never come back
-will find a way to open the door when you are pooping and then run away, especially loves to do this when guests are over.

I am shocked and appalled by this post! First of all his name is Monty--and that's a quality name for an exemplary cat. Now let me briefly address each item of your list.

- He is cute, and you know it.
- He is loyal and affectionate--he wants to be your BFF.
- Maybe he has the sniffles...
- He can't smell himself--or maybe he just needs a bath.
- He's just reminding you to periodically keep things tidy.
- Maybe he got confused and couldn't find his litter box.
- He's a genius and knows the water in his bowl has an unsafe pH level.
- [See above]
- I think this is an exaggeration--I think he likes to be petted.
- He's your loyal best friend for eternity--what a cute little guy!
- Monty is merely demonstrating the security breach your bathroom door represents, he is attempting to convince you to install a proper doorknob lock.

* Also--I think the fact that you keep trying to give him away is making him neurotic/causing some of the more undesirable qualities described in this list. Monty is a poor kitty away from his home and his mom and all he knows--he just needs a little love and understanding.

 

[JerryBoBerry]

Monty is a poor kitty away from his home and his mom and all he knows--he just needs a little love and understanding.

And a good declawing and lots of vallium. :-D

 

[ThePrincessLuxy]

These awesome little signs I'm making keep falling off the wall and this stupid cat I'm babysitting for the year keeps DESTROYING them.

:-x Anybody need a free cat?!

He:
-is really ugly.
-is really mean.
-is a weird cat mouth breather
-doesn't clean himself so he reeks.
-sheds all over everything and rips his hair out
-pisses on your bed if he's mad.
-will jump up all over your counters and beg for water from the sink even though his water bowl is full.
-will purposely spill the water bowl over.
-bites if you try to touch him
-refuses to run away and never come back
-will find a way to open the door when you are pooping and then run away, especially loves to do this when guests are over.

I am shocked and appalled by this post! First of all his name is Monty--and that's a quality name for an exemplary cat. Now let me briefly address each item of your list.

- He is cute, and you know it.
- He is loyal and affectionate--he wants to be your BFF.
- Maybe he has the sniffles...
- He can't smell himself--or maybe he just needs a bath.
- He's just reminding you to periodically keep things tidy.
- Maybe he got confused and couldn't find his litter box.
- He's a genius and knows the water in his bowl has an unsafe pH level.
- [See above]
- I think this is an exaggeration--I think he likes to be petted.
- He's your loyal best friend for eternity--what a cute little guy!
- Monty is merely demonstrating the security breach your bathroom door represents, he is attempting to convince you to install a proper doorknob lock.

* Also--I think the fact that you keep trying to give him away is making him neurotic/causing some of the more undesirable qualities described in this list. Monty is a poor kitty away from his home and his mom and all he knows--he just needs a little love and understanding.

Nope! He did all these things when he was with his mom too!! I think he just is a very high anxiety cat and the way he was raised bred really bad and unfavorable behaviors.

 

[ThePrincessLuxy]

:lol: And you are right, Kruk. I did exaggerate about the biting thing. Since he's moved here I have noticed a change in his friendliness levels toward people. He will occasionally come up to you and cuddle and let you pet him for about 3-10 minutes until he gets the crazy wide eyed look and then proceeds to attack you. Thank goodness he is declawed @.@. Doesn't help with the biting though.

 

[Zoomer]

Thread needs a photo of said demonic cat...

 

[Just Me]

On another message board that I am a member of, it is required that you post pictures if you make mention of cat or dog that you can take pictures of. I think this would be a good rule here as well. :-D

 

[Just Me]

 

[JerryBoBerry]

angry cat videos were here...

I do believe me and that cat would take a walk one night with it being in a cage. We would find a nice tall building or bridge and then it would be testing the laws of gravity.

 

[Teagan]

:lol: And you are right, Kruk. I did exaggerate about the biting thing. Since he's moved here I have noticed a change in his friendliness levels toward people. He will occasionally come up to you and cuddle and let you pet him for about 3-10 minutes until he gets the crazy wide eyed look and then proceeds to attack you. Thank goodness he is declawed @.@. Doesn't help with the biting though.

Actually the valium may not be a bad idea. Some cats are over anxious and constantly stressed. Sometimes for no reason but they are. Not human like drugs obviously but ones from the vet. Kitty pulling out its own fur is a major sign of needing some. Plus the poor thing not grooming itself may means its depressed too. Some kitty drugs may help calm him. Make him happier even. A lot of the behavior you are describing may stop completely like the peeing. Which of course would make you much happier.

Poor kitty.

 

[Just Me]

:lol: And you are right, Kruk. I did exaggerate about the biting thing. Since he's moved here I have noticed a change in his friendliness levels toward people. He will occasionally come up to you and cuddle and let you pet him for about 3-10 minutes until he gets the crazy wide eyed look and then proceeds to attack you. Thank goodness he is declawed @.@. Doesn't help with the biting though.

Actually the valium may not be a bad idea. Some cats are over anxious and constantly stressed. Sometimes for no reason but they are. Not human like drugs obviously but ones from the vet. Kitty pulling out its own fur is a major sign of needing some. Plus the poor thing not grooming itself may means its depressed too. Some kitty drugs may help calm him. Make him happier even. A lot of the behavior you are describing may stop completely like the peeing. Which of course would make you much happier.

Poor kitty.

The drugs are mostly the same, dosages are probably the only thing that is different. Paxil seems to be the drug of choice for crazy pets. :lol: My mum's dog is a little crazy and OCD and is on a daily dosage of Paxil. It seems to work well.

 

[Teagan]

:lol: And you are right, Kruk. I did exaggerate about the biting thing. Since he's moved here I have noticed a change in his friendliness levels toward people. He will occasionally come up to you and cuddle and let you pet him for about 3-10 minutes until he gets the crazy wide eyed look and then proceeds to attack you. Thank goodness he is declawed @.@. Doesn't help with the biting though.

Actually the valium may not be a bad idea. Some cats are over anxious and constantly stressed. Sometimes for no reason but they are. Not human like drugs obviously but ones from the vet. Kitty pulling out its own fur is a major sign of needing some. Plus the poor thing not grooming itself may means its depressed too. Some kitty drugs may help calm him. Make him happier even. A lot of the behavior you are describing may stop completely like the peeing. Which of course would make you much happier.

Poor kitty.

The drugs are mostly the same, dosages are probably the only thing that is different. Paxil seems to be the drug of choice for crazy pets. :lol: My mum's dog is a little crazy and OCD and is on a daily dosage of Paxil. It seems to work well.

Dosage is the key yes. I know some who are on valium, and some who are on Prozac too. How much kitty weighs, and there may be bloodwork involved to make sure it's getting enough and not to much. It's really easy though if they need it to get it for them.
Also a huge thing they may be able to do is how it's administered. If you have ever tried to shove a pill down a cats throat for days on end believe me you never wanna do it again lol. They can mash the pill into powder and mix it with flavored gravy stuff. You syringe it out in daily doses and it's much safer and easier to give for a cat. This is what I do with one of the cats here now. Daily pills would not happen with her, the syringe is so easy and less stressful for her.

 

[JoleneBrody]

Please consider all other options and efforts before drugging an animal. You could be drugging a cat who's depressed and anxious just because he can't see out of a certain window, or isn't played with enough or a multitude of other really simple animals needs that us humans can easily overlook. Cats are one of the most demanding domestic pets yet one who's needs seem to be often ignored in favor of the "self sufficient cat" idea. In all reality cats are very delicate and social animals who still have very strong needs to "hunt" and be wild... yet they mostly live indoors. This can lead to a multitude of "crazy cat" issues if the needs are not being met properly resulting in stress, anxiety and boredom.

If you can get past the kind of silly nature of it, maybe check out this animal planet show on netflix called "my cat from hell" as well as consult a vet. It really does give a great insight into some of the often overlooked needs of our indoor feline friends and some possible ideas to try to make a happier and less stressful time at your home.
These can be physical health issues just as easily as they could be mental/emotional though so a vet would be a great idea as well, especially the excessive shedding and mouth breathing. It's not normal for a cat to breath through their mouths unless they have something wrong with their noses, like an infection.

 

[EdenUk]

Think it may be cat behavior in general....they are strange animals.
I bought one a few weeks back and had him 2 days then took him to the cat rescue
(Which in the UK is better than being in a grubby little pet store)

 

[VeronicaChaos]

I'm sorry...I hate to be THAT cat lady to say this...

It makes me extremely sad when humans get rid of a problematic cat vs. trying to figure out what is wrong with the cat. When you are taking care of a cat, whether it's yours or not, you are the provider and protector. You are the human, and it's your job to figure out what you have to do to make the cat happy. Cats who are problematic are not BAD cats; they are cats that are stressed because their needs are not being met. Especially, when you take home a cat, you are making a commitment to that animal. It's no different than a child who's having family issues and then blaming the kid for acting out.

Some cats are special, and need special attention and care. I can attest to this myself; mine has had behavioral problems since I got her as a kitten. I've had to make a lot of adjustments in my life to make her happy, as well as adjustments in my own behavior. It hasn't been easy, and as I've watched friends take in/get rid of cats over the years, the relationship with my cat has grown. She's now pretty chill, will cuddle with me constantly, and gives me so much love. She still has her moments, but I'm so glad that I've never given up on her, because she's my best friend, and I love her with all my heart.

Something to consider; if you have a problem cat and decide to get rid of it as opposed to helping it, you're giving that responsibility over to someone else, and that someone else very may likely decide to put the cat down. You have a choice; to help a tiny beautiful animal who desperately needs it, or to abandon it, possibly to death. What sort of person do you want to be?

Sorry, this is something I feel very strongly about.

 

[Teagan]

I'm sorry...I hate to be THAT cat lady to say this...

It makes me extremely sad when humans get rid of a problematic cat vs. trying to figure out what is wrong with the cat. When you are taking care of a cat, whether it's yours or not, you are the provider and protector. You are the human, and it's your job to figure out what you have to do to make the cat happy. Cats who are problematic are not BAD cats; they are cats that are stressed because their needs are not being met. Especially, when you take home a cat, you are making a commitment to that animal. It's no different than a child who's having family issues and then blaming the kid for acting out.

Some cats are special, and need special attention and care. I can attest to this myself; mine has had behavioral problems since I got her as a kitten. I've had to make a lot of adjustments in my life to make her happy, as well as adjustments in my own behavior. It hasn't been easy, and as I've watched friends take in/get rid of cats over the years, the relationship with my cat has grown. She's now pretty chill, will cuddle with me constantly, and gives me so much love. She still has her moments, but I'm so glad that I've never given up on her, because she's my best friend, and I love her with all my heart.

Something to consider; if you have a problem cat and decide to get rid of it as opposed to helping it, you're giving that responsibility over to someone else, and that someone else very may likely decide to put the cat down. You have a choice; to help a tiny beautiful animal who desperately needs it, or to abandon it, possibly to death. What sort of person do you want to be?

Sorry, this is something I feel very strongly about.

Thank you Veronica !

2 days is not enough time for a cat to adjust to a new environment and settle down. To get to know you. To be comfortable. To bond. It may have settled down and became the best damn cat you have ever known. It may have always had issues though too that a few simple adjustments on your part could have helped. You will never know now.

You are doing a huge disservice to that animal. Maybe it's been dumped and dumped repeatedly and that's it's problem. I wouldn't trust people after that either.

I have had many problem cats over the years. Rescues, adopted, strays, fosters. Even supposed ferals. All it takes 99% of the time is time, patience, understanding, and empathy. You have no clue what they have been through before they came to your door. I have one kitty here who has been in the house for 6 years. She was already 7-9 when we found her. She is JUST NOW starting to truly settle in.

If you're always gonna be buying cats and giving them 2 days to be perfect you're gonna be hard pressed to find one that way. All cats take a bit to adjust, to learn the laws of your house, to learn new smells, to learn you. So if you're gonna be getting pets and not give them the time to do all that... please just stop getting pets. You are not helping them at all. You are hurting them more than you could know, or care to know obviously.

 

[LacieLaPlante]

:lol: And you are right, Kruk. I did exaggerate about the biting thing. Since he's moved here I have noticed a change in his friendliness levels toward people. He will occasionally come up to you and cuddle and let you pet him for about 3-10 minutes until he gets the crazy wide eyed look and then proceeds to attack you. Thank goodness he is declawed @.@. Doesn't help with the biting though.

Awe, often the declawing can send a cat into a bit of a depression. It's cutting off the whole first knuckle of their paw, not just the claw. I'd be pretty fucking depressed if someone did that to me.

 

[ThePrincessLuxy]

I'm sorry...I hate to be THAT cat lady to say this...

It makes me extremely sad when humans get rid of a problematic cat vs. trying to figure out what is wrong with the cat. When you are taking care of a cat, whether it's yours or not, you are the provider and protector. You are the human, and it's your job to figure out what you have to do to make the cat happy. Cats who are problematic are not BAD cats; they are cats that are stressed because their needs are not being met. Especially, when you take home a cat, you are making a commitment to that animal. It's no different than a child who's having family issues and then blaming the kid for acting out.

Some cats are special, and need special attention and care. I can attest to this myself; mine has had behavioral problems since I got her as a kitten. I've had to make a lot of adjustments in my life to make her happy, as well as adjustments in my own behavior. It hasn't been easy, and as I've watched friends take in/get rid of cats over the years, the relationship with my cat has grown. She's now pretty chill, will cuddle with me constantly, and gives me so much love. She still has her moments, but I'm so glad that I've never given up on her, because she's my best friend, and I love her with all my heart.

Something to consider; if you have a problem cat and decide to get rid of it as opposed to helping it, you're giving that responsibility over to someone else, and that someone else very may likely decide to put the cat down. You have a choice; to help a tiny beautiful animal who desperately needs it, or to abandon it, possibly to death. What sort of person do you want to be?

Sorry, this is something I feel very strongly about.

I'm not ACTUALLY trying to give this cat away. I joke about it all the time on cam (that's why Kruk responded to this thread, it's an ongoing inside thing). If I wanted to give Monty away, he would be gone by now and I definitely would not have posted a thread on ACF about it.

I believe in the same thing. I understand this cat is my responsibility, and I made a commitment to this cat and promise to my friend for the year. Now does this mean I have to like this cat? Heck no. Can I bitch about how much I hate him? Yes. Do I joke about giving him to someone I know? All the time. Will I actually do it? No. I'm an animal rescuer also so I do have a heart and it really does break when I think of where animals end up if you let them go. :crybaby:

 

[ThePrincessLuxy]

I'm sorry...I hate to be THAT cat lady to say this...

It makes me extremely sad when humans get rid of a problematic cat vs. trying to figure out what is wrong with the cat. When you are taking care of a cat, whether it's yours or not, you are the provider and protector. You are the human, and it's your job to figure out what you have to do to make the cat happy. Cats who are problematic are not BAD cats; they are cats that are stressed because their needs are not being met. Especially, when you take home a cat, you are making a commitment to that animal. It's no different than a child who's having family issues and then blaming the kid for acting out.

Some cats are special, and need special attention and care. I can attest to this myself; mine has had behavioral problems since I got her as a kitten. I've had to make a lot of adjustments in my life to make her happy, as well as adjustments in my own behavior. It hasn't been easy, and as I've watched friends take in/get rid of cats over the years, the relationship with my cat has grown. She's now pretty chill, will cuddle with me constantly, and gives me so much love. She still has her moments, but I'm so glad that I've never given up on her, because she's my best friend, and I love her with all my heart.

Something to consider; if you have a problem cat and decide to get rid of it as opposed to helping it, you're giving that responsibility over to someone else, and that someone else very may likely decide to put the cat down. You have a choice; to help a tiny beautiful animal who desperately needs it, or to abandon it, possibly to death. What sort of person do you want to be?

Sorry, this is something I feel very strongly about.

Thank you Veronica !

2 days is not enough time for a cat to adjust to a new environment and settle down. To get to know you. To be comfortable. To bond. It may have settled down and became the best damn cat you have ever known. It may have always had issues though too that a few simple adjustments on your part could have helped. You will never know now.

You are doing a huge disservice to that animal. Maybe it's been dumped and dumped repeatedly and that's it's problem. I wouldn't trust people after that either.

I have had many problem cats over the years. Rescues, adopted, strays, fosters. Even supposed ferals. All it takes 99% of the time is time, patience, understanding, and empathy. You have no clue what they have been through before they came to your door. I have one kitty here who has been in the house for 6 years. She was already 7-9 when we found her. She is JUST NOW starting to truly settle in.

If you're always gonna be buying cats and giving them 2 days to be perfect you're gonna be hard pressed to find one that way. All cats take a bit to adjust, to learn the laws of your house, to learn new smells, to learn you. So if you're gonna be getting pets and not give them the time to do all that... please just stop getting pets. You are not helping them at all. You are hurting them more than you could know, or care to know obviously.

I should have specified. I did not buy this cat. I have taken this cat in for my best friend who is studying in England for the year. He (kitty) has been with us since July this summer, so roughly 6 months? His behavior and mood has gotten much better since he has been here although his habits will probably never be fully broken. I'm just wondering if his stress levels will go back to how they were when we first got him when his owner returns. She loves him lots but doesn't give him the attention he needs. And for some reason he pees all over her bed all the time? Since he has been with us he has only done that once. It sounds like he is a lot less stressed out here but then again I don't want to have to be the person that says, "Hey Jess, you suck at being a pet owner because...<insert reasons why she's wrong here>".

 

[VeronicaChaos]

I'm sorry...I hate to be THAT cat lady to say this...

It makes me extremely sad when humans get rid of a problematic cat vs. trying to figure out what is wrong with the cat. When you are taking care of a cat, whether it's yours or not, you are the provider and protector. You are the human, and it's your job to figure out what you have to do to make the cat happy. Cats who are problematic are not BAD cats; they are cats that are stressed because their needs are not being met. Especially, when you take home a cat, you are making a commitment to that animal. It's no different than a child who's having family issues and then blaming the kid for acting out.

Some cats are special, and need special attention and care. I can attest to this myself; mine has had behavioral problems since I got her as a kitten. I've had to make a lot of adjustments in my life to make her happy, as well as adjustments in my own behavior. It hasn't been easy, and as I've watched friends take in/get rid of cats over the years, the relationship with my cat has grown. She's now pretty chill, will cuddle with me constantly, and gives me so much love. She still has her moments, but I'm so glad that I've never given up on her, because she's my best friend, and I love her with all my heart.

Something to consider; if you have a problem cat and decide to get rid of it as opposed to helping it, you're giving that responsibility over to someone else, and that someone else very may likely decide to put the cat down. You have a choice; to help a tiny beautiful animal who desperately needs it, or to abandon it, possibly to death. What sort of person do you want to be?

Sorry, this is something I feel very strongly about.

Thank you Veronica !

2 days is not enough time for a cat to adjust to a new environment and settle down. To get to know you. To be comfortable. To bond. It may have settled down and became the best damn cat you have ever known. It may have always had issues though too that a few simple adjustments on your part could have helped. You will never know now.

You are doing a huge disservice to that animal. Maybe it's been dumped and dumped repeatedly and that's it's problem. I wouldn't trust people after that either.

I have had many problem cats over the years. Rescues, adopted, strays, fosters. Even supposed ferals. All it takes 99% of the time is time, patience, understanding, and empathy. You have no clue what they have been through before they came to your door. I have one kitty here who has been in the house for 6 years. She was already 7-9 when we found her. She is JUST NOW starting to truly settle in.

If you're always gonna be buying cats and giving them 2 days to be perfect you're gonna be hard pressed to find one that way. All cats take a bit to adjust, to learn the laws of your house, to learn new smells, to learn you. So if you're gonna be getting pets and not give them the time to do all that... please just stop getting pets. You are not helping them at all. You are hurting them more than you could know, or care to know obviously.

I should have specified. I did not buy this cat. I have taken this cat in for my best friend who is studying in England for the year. He (kitty) has been with us since July this summer, so roughly 6 months? His behavior and mood has gotten much better since he has been here although his habits will probably never be fully broken. I'm just wondering if his stress levels will go back to how they were when we first got him when his owner returns. She loves him lots but doesn't give him the attention he needs. And for some reason he pees all over her bed all the time? Since he has been with us he has only done that once. It sounds like he is a lot less stressed out here but then again I don't want to have to be the person that says, "Hey Jess, you suck at being a pet owner because...<insert reasons why she's wrong here>".

I couldn't tell but I thought you were joking, that was a bit more of my own rant in the other direction about crappy pet owners (or...ex owners...). That's awesome that the cat is better than it used to be! Trust me, I sympathize...I can't even count the number of futons I've had to toss thanks to Victoria. Of course, as soon as I get a petproof futon cover she stops completely! :lol: (Well, now it's wine-proof, so that's good!) I'm actually glad now that she has always been so "vocal" about being unhappy because now that she's behaving so well I know she isn't and that's such a great feeling.

I actually don't think it would be out of line for you to mention something to her. I took care of my friend's cat for 6 months, and while he was/is a great cat owner, I definitely shared all the information I could about her because there were definitely things I learned about taking care of her while she was in my care. I think it's all about HOW you tell her, and really, I think being that person would probably be better than having the cat all fucked up again after going home. It's a delicate subject though. I know I really pissed off one of my friends when she gave away two of her problem cats that were obviously acting out because of her fucked up relationship. She'd have been better off leaving the relationship and keeping the cats, but of course she went the other way and now doesn't have either.

+1 on the recommendation of "My Cat From Hell". If anything, just to give you some ideas to give you and kitty some more peace of mind while it's there.

 

[ThePrincessLuxy]

I'm sorry...I hate to be THAT cat lady to say this...

It makes me extremely sad when humans get rid of a problematic cat vs. trying to figure out what is wrong with the cat. When you are taking care of a cat, whether it's yours or not, you are the provider and protector. You are the human, and it's your job to figure out what you have to do to make the cat happy. Cats who are problematic are not BAD cats; they are cats that are stressed because their needs are not being met. Especially, when you take home a cat, you are making a commitment to that animal. It's no different than a child who's having family issues and then blaming the kid for acting out.

Some cats are special, and need special attention and care. I can attest to this myself; mine has had behavioral problems since I got her as a kitten. I've had to make a lot of adjustments in my life to make her happy, as well as adjustments in my own behavior. It hasn't been easy, and as I've watched friends take in/get rid of cats over the years, the relationship with my cat has grown. She's now pretty chill, will cuddle with me constantly, and gives me so much love. She still has her moments, but I'm so glad that I've never given up on her, because she's my best friend, and I love her with all my heart.

Something to consider; if you have a problem cat and decide to get rid of it as opposed to helping it, you're giving that responsibility over to someone else, and that someone else very may likely decide to put the cat down. You have a choice; to help a tiny beautiful animal who desperately needs it, or to abandon it, possibly to death. What sort of person do you want to be?

Sorry, this is something I feel very strongly about.

Thank you Veronica !

2 days is not enough time for a cat to adjust to a new environment and settle down. To get to know you. To be comfortable. To bond. It may have settled down and became the best damn cat you have ever known. It may have always had issues though too that a few simple adjustments on your part could have helped. You will never know now.

You are doing a huge disservice to that animal. Maybe it's been dumped and dumped repeatedly and that's it's problem. I wouldn't trust people after that either.

I have had many problem cats over the years. Rescues, adopted, strays, fosters. Even supposed ferals. All it takes 99% of the time is time, patience, understanding, and empathy. You have no clue what they have been through before they came to your door. I have one kitty here who has been in the house for 6 years. She was already 7-9 when we found her. She is JUST NOW starting to truly settle in.

If you're always gonna be buying cats and giving them 2 days to be perfect you're gonna be hard pressed to find one that way. All cats take a bit to adjust, to learn the laws of your house, to learn new smells, to learn you. So if you're gonna be getting pets and not give them the time to do all that... please just stop getting pets. You are not helping them at all. You are hurting them more than you could know, or care to know obviously.

I should have specified. I did not buy this cat. I have taken this cat in for my best friend who is studying in England for the year. He (kitty) has been with us since July this summer, so roughly 6 months? His behavior and mood has gotten much better since he has been here although his habits will probably never be fully broken. I'm just wondering if his stress levels will go back to how they were when we first got him when his owner returns. She loves him lots but doesn't give him the attention he needs. And for some reason he pees all over her bed all the time? Since he has been with us he has only done that once. It sounds like he is a lot less stressed out here but then again I don't want to have to be the person that says, "Hey Jess, you suck at being a pet owner because...<insert reasons why she's wrong here>".

I couldn't tell but I thought you were joking, that was a bit more of my own rant in the other direction about crappy pet owners (or...ex owners...). That's awesome that the cat is better than it used to be! Trust me, I sympathize...I can't even count the number of futons I've had to toss thanks to Victoria. Of course, as soon as I get a petproof futon cover she stops completely! :lol: (Well, now it's wine-proof, so that's good!) I'm actually glad now that she has always been so "vocal" about being unhappy because now that she's behaving so well I know she isn't and that's such a great feeling.

I actually don't think it would be out of line for you to mention something to her. I took care of my friend's cat for 6 months, and while he was/is a great cat owner, I definitely shared all the information I could about her because there were definitely things I learned about taking care of her while she was in my care. I think it's all about HOW you tell her, and really, I think being that person would probably be better than having the cat all fucked up again after going home. It's a delicate subject though. I know I really pissed off one of my friends when she gave away two of her problem cats that were obviously acting out because of her fucked up relationship. She'd have been better off leaving the relationship and keeping the cats, but of course she went the other way and now doesn't have either.

+1 on the recommendation of "My Cat From Hell". If anything, just to give you some ideas to give you and kitty some more peace of mind while it's there.

Lol I watched a few episodes. What the heck is up with that guy? And what is up with carrying the cat stuff in a guitar case? ROFL. He does know what he's talking about though.
As for Monty, he is an angel compared to some of those kitties. O.O;

:whew

 

[Teagan]

I'm sorry...I hate to be THAT cat lady to say this...

It makes me extremely sad when humans get rid of a problematic cat vs. trying to figure out what is wrong with the cat. When you are taking care of a cat, whether it's yours or not, you are the provider and protector. You are the human, and it's your job to figure out what you have to do to make the cat happy. Cats who are problematic are not BAD cats; they are cats that are stressed because their needs are not being met. Especially, when you take home a cat, you are making a commitment to that animal. It's no different than a child who's having family issues and then blaming the kid for acting out.

Some cats are special, and need special attention and care. I can attest to this myself; mine has had behavioral problems since I got her as a kitten. I've had to make a lot of adjustments in my life to make her happy, as well as adjustments in my own behavior. It hasn't been easy, and as I've watched friends take in/get rid of cats over the years, the relationship with my cat has grown. She's now pretty chill, will cuddle with me constantly, and gives me so much love. She still has her moments, but I'm so glad that I've never given up on her, because she's my best friend, and I love her with all my heart.

Something to consider; if you have a problem cat and decide to get rid of it as opposed to helping it, you're giving that responsibility over to someone else, and that someone else very may likely decide to put the cat down. You have a choice; to help a tiny beautiful animal who desperately needs it, or to abandon it, possibly to death. What sort of person do you want to be?

Sorry, this is something I feel very strongly about.

Thank you Veronica !

2 days is not enough time for a cat to adjust to a new environment and settle down. To get to know you. To be comfortable. To bond. It may have settled down and became the best damn cat you have ever known. It may have always had issues though too that a few simple adjustments on your part could have helped. You will never know now.

You are doing a huge disservice to that animal. Maybe it's been dumped and dumped repeatedly and that's it's problem. I wouldn't trust people after that either.

I have had many problem cats over the years. Rescues, adopted, strays, fosters. Even supposed ferals. All it takes 99% of the time is time, patience, understanding, and empathy. You have no clue what they have been through before they came to your door. I have one kitty here who has been in the house for 6 years. She was already 7-9 when we found her. She is JUST NOW starting to truly settle in.

If you're always gonna be buying cats and giving them 2 days to be perfect you're gonna be hard pressed to find one that way. All cats take a bit to adjust, to learn the laws of your house, to learn new smells, to learn you. So if you're gonna be getting pets and not give them the time to do all that... please just stop getting pets. You are not helping them at all. You are hurting them more than you could know, or care to know obviously.

I should have specified. I did not buy this cat. I have taken this cat in for my best friend who is studying in England for the year. He (kitty) has been with us since July this summer, so roughly 6 months? His behavior and mood has gotten much better since he has been here although his habits will probably never be fully broken. I'm just wondering if his stress levels will go back to how they were when we first got him when his owner returns. She loves him lots but doesn't give him the attention he needs. And for some reason he pees all over her bed all the time? Since he has been with us he has only done that once. It sounds like he is a lot less stressed out here but then again I don't want to have to be the person that says, "Hey Jess, you suck at being a pet owner because...<insert reasons why she's wrong here>".

I should have quoted. I meant that to Peggy. I actually did get you were joking about giving kitty away. I actually applaud you for with all his "issues" that you are being so loving with him and keeping him. I'm really glad to hear though he's getting better.

And oh my Jackson is hilarious to me. His book sucks butt but he does know kitties.

 

[JoleneBrody]

I'm sorry...I hate to be THAT cat lady to say this...

It makes me extremely sad when humans get rid of a problematic cat vs. trying to figure out what is wrong with the cat. When you are taking care of a cat, whether it's yours or not, you are the provider and protector. You are the human, and it's your job to figure out what you have to do to make the cat happy. Cats who are problematic are not BAD cats; they are cats that are stressed because their needs are not being met. Especially, when you take home a cat, you are making a commitment to that animal. It's no different than a child who's having family issues and then blaming the kid for acting out.

Some cats are special, and need special attention and care. I can attest to this myself; mine has had behavioral problems since I got her as a kitten. I've had to make a lot of adjustments in my life to make her happy, as well as adjustments in my own behavior. It hasn't been easy, and as I've watched friends take in/get rid of cats over the years, the relationship with my cat has grown. She's now pretty chill, will cuddle with me constantly, and gives me so much love. She still has her moments, but I'm so glad that I've never given up on her, because she's my best friend, and I love her with all my heart.

Something to consider; if you have a problem cat and decide to get rid of it as opposed to helping it, you're giving that responsibility over to someone else, and that someone else very may likely decide to put the cat down. You have a choice; to help a tiny beautiful animal who desperately needs it, or to abandon it, possibly to death. What sort of person do you want to be?

Sorry, this is something I feel very strongly about.

Thank you Veronica !

2 days is not enough time for a cat to adjust to a new environment and settle down. To get to know you. To be comfortable. To bond. It may have settled down and became the best damn cat you have ever known. It may have always had issues though too that a few simple adjustments on your part could have helped. You will never know now.

You are doing a huge disservice to that animal. Maybe it's been dumped and dumped repeatedly and that's it's problem. I wouldn't trust people after that either.

I have had many problem cats over the years. Rescues, adopted, strays, fosters. Even supposed ferals. All it takes 99% of the time is time, patience, understanding, and empathy. You have no clue what they have been through before they came to your door. I have one kitty here who has been in the house for 6 years. She was already 7-9 when we found her. She is JUST NOW starting to truly settle in.

If you're always gonna be buying cats and giving them 2 days to be perfect you're gonna be hard pressed to find one that way. All cats take a bit to adjust, to learn the laws of your house, to learn new smells, to learn you. So if you're gonna be getting pets and not give them the time to do all that... please just stop getting pets. You are not helping them at all. You are hurting them more than you could know, or care to know obviously.

I should have specified. I did not buy this cat. I have taken this cat in for my best friend who is studying in England for the year. He (kitty) has been with us since July this summer, so roughly 6 months? His behavior and mood has gotten much better since he has been here although his habits will probably never be fully broken. I'm just wondering if his stress levels will go back to how they were when we first got him when his owner returns. She loves him lots but doesn't give him the attention he needs. And for some reason he pees all over her bed all the time? Since he has been with us he has only done that once. It sounds like he is a lot less stressed out here but then again I don't want to have to be the person that says, "Hey Jess, you suck at being a pet owner because...<insert reasons why she's wrong here>".

I should have quoted. I meant that to Peggy. I actually did get you were joking about giving kitty away. I actually applaud you for with all his "issues" that you are being so loving with him and keeping him. I'm really glad to hear though he's getting better.

And oh my Jackson is hilarious to me. His book sucks butt but he does know kitties.

Hahaha for real! That's why I had to start my mention of his show with "get past the silly" because he makes me cringe with douchiness BUT he has a huge patient heart and knows his kitties, that's for sure!