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Question
Several months ago I trapped a feral mother cat and her two kittens. They were living under my house and are now comfortably living in my house but still won't let me touch them or pick them up. The momma is very fluffy and walks and stands with her tail down. Today however, she raised her tail and SURPRISE she is not a momma!!! The kittens are female so I need to get everyone to the vet right away. Is there a way that I can sedate them so that I can get them into carriers and to the vet?
Hi Barb,
It's great that you are taking care of these ferals. It sounds like they are beginning to socialize with you. Here is a link that explains how to catch feral cats in the wild but you can adapt it to your house. http://www.feralcat.com/trapinst.html
Make sure you take all of them together. Release them in a closed quiet room such as a bedroom after-wards and let them settle back in for a day or two. That site also has great articles on how to domesticate ferals. Try some of the tips it lists with your new family. 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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