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Cats/feral cat ,now indoors in crate cries at night
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Question
A colleague gave me a feral cat after she trapped it in the city. I got the cat, a tabby, from her vet after all shots, etc... had been given. This was an extremely ferocious cat, but more defensive than aggressive. Slowly I'm making progress, but the cat has started to cry small plaintive cries at night when everyone's been put to bed. I 've socialized many cats, and had one other that did this. What's he trying to say? I have other cats (rescue cases) so I have to keep him in a separate bedroom. I keep him in a large crate, the largest I could buy, near the window with some blankets on top for cover. I live in the country so it's quiet. I've had a break from work and have spent 4 to 6 hours a day with him. I try to stimulate him with music, talk shows, or fish or kitten screensavers. Why does he cry like this at night? I feel so sad for him. After 7 weeks, I've finally gotten him to purr, but he's still very scared and loses his bladder and bowel control if he feels too scared (e.g. me moving him from one side of crate to the other to change blankets, or got him out of dirt box where he was huddled). Please advise, it would be so appreciated!
Thank you! georganna
Hi Georganna,
I would take him back to the vet to be checked for Thyroid disease. What you have describe are some of the symptoms for this. If he comes out with a clean bill of health on that end write back and I'll be able to help you. 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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