Expert: Dear Tabbi - 7/20/2008

Question
hi I just got 2 new kittens one a male and one a female. I already had a cat named Abbie about 6-7 months now and she was littered trained always used the litter box now all of a sudden since I got the kittens. Abbie is going to the bathroom on the floor why is this? and how can I stop It.

Thanks
Chris

Answer
Chris,

More than likely Abbie is stressed and upset by the addition of the kittens and that is her way of telling you.

Did you do the introduction process correctly and slowly? That makes a difference. If you don't you can get behavior problems such as what you are seeing.

I am attaching a couple of links on how to go about the introduction process:
(copy and paste, or type the whole links into your address bar)

http://www.messybeast.com/first-impressions.htm

http://www.littlebigcat.com/index.php?action=library&act=show&item=cattocatintro...

It usually takes about 2 weeks.

You can get what is called Feliway (or Comfort Zone with Feliway). It is a spray and you can get plug-ins (try PetSmart, a vet (they use it too), or on-line). It is very popular and is great for calming cats and reducing stress. It copies the relaxing pheromones that cats produce from rubbing their faces on things.

There is also a calming product that you can add to their food or water that reduces anxiety called Bach's Rescue Remedy. It is available on-line and in health food stores. Here is a link about it: (copy and paste, or type the whole links into your address bar)
http://www.bachflower.com/Pets.htm

Once they can be together without any problems feed both cats yummy cat treats (like tuna or pieces of raw steak) TOGETHER. That is so the cats will associate each other with something pleasant.

Also getting a pet laser light (at PetSmart, etc.) is great for interaction between the two cats. They both can chase the 'little red bug' on the floor, ceilings, and walls, and they tend to forget about the other cat as they focus on the 'bug' which helps them get used to each other and become friends.

Give Abbie a lot of love and attention. Let her know that she is not being replaced in your affections. Lock up the new kittens for awhile and give Abbie some special kitty treats, play with her, and give her attention. That should help some of stress over the kittens.

It just takes time and lots of patience. All will work out.

Tabbi