Expert: Dear Tabbi - 7/31/2008

Question
Where I live there where a few stray cats, and I took one in due to the bitter
cold winter in the great lakes area where I live. I had him seen by a vet, all
was good expect he had worms, and  UTI. After this was taken care of I start
to take him over to my mothers so that he could get use to being there as my
mother was willing to take him in. So one night I give him over to my mother
with a littler box, and then at 4 am my mother call to say the cat was mowing
all night, and was going mad. So long story short I end up with him but ever
since I took him to my home . Ever since  he has done this behavior I would
call it needing attention 24/7 and if he does not get what he want he start
chewing thing, clawing stuff, and meowing very loud. When he is told to stop,
he then jump up on me, and start head butting me to get the attention.   It
has gotten to the point that I am getting fed up with it, I am just happy I have
gotten the chewing/clawing stuff under control, but the meowing and 24/7 of
wanting attention is getting old. Do you have ideal how to stop this unwanted
behavior.

Answer
Michael,

Your cat needs a companion!

Kittens should be alone. He needs a friend to play kitty games with, to roughhouse with, to play chase with, to snuggle with, and to be company and comfort when he is alone.

2 cats are easier to take care of than one because they have each other for company and play and it takes the pressure off of you to keep him amused. I would try to get one about the same age, temperment, and personality. And after about a 2 week introduction period you should notice a change in your kitten's mis-behavior.

Tabbi