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Question
We live in UAE where there is a large stray animal problem, especially cats. A pair of kittens showed up around our flat and were around for a few weeks. I had no intention of owning a cat as I am an international teacher and will be moving around. But, after one of the kittens disapeared, and after careful consideration as to how a cat would change my life plans, I took pity on him, and decided to take the cat in. He was 3 months old and I have had him for just under 3 months. He has had a physical by a vet, his shots and been recently (4 days) neutered. Unfortunately, I am now regretting my decision. He is like no other cat I have ever known. He constantly meows and when he does come to me for affection he attacks my hand. I have tried ignoring, extra cat toys and play time and have even resorted to a water squirter. Nothing seems to help. As soon as my alarm wakes me up, he starts meowing, and no amount of water seems to deter him. He does quiet down once both me and my husband are awake and getting ready for work; He plays by himself most hilariously. He is the biggest problem in the mornings. I have read several answers to similar problems but would like a final, personal answer, before I get rid of him. I thought I really loved cats, but this one is testing that theory, thoroughly. Please help. I want to keep him, but I can't take waking up to a monster every single day.
Hi Amanda,
He is training you. When he meows you respond to him in a way he likes. He will keep on doing this until you train him. You are going to have to stop whatever you are doing when he meows and ignore him. You are also going to have reward positive behavior on his part. No meowing and being quiet you give him a treat or a pet.
He should grow out of attacking your hand. But when he does do it, I would blow in his face. Cats hate that. Or when you notice he's about to attack put him down and walk away. You need to keep this up for a little while. But he will become the cat you want. Good luck.
Ciao, Karen
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Answers by Expert:
Karen Craft
Expertise
I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!
Experience
I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care.
Some thoughts to carry with you.
A Cat's 10 Commandments
My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.
Give me time to understand what you want of me.
Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.
Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you.
Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.
Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.
Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you.
If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong.
Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old.
On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so.
Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.
Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.
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