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Expert: - 1/4/2009


Question
Our very affectionate cat got mixed under my wife's feet and got scared.  He ran
downstairs but eventually returned.  Then my cell phone rang and he darted off
under the bed.  When he came out, he walked very slow and tentative and still does.  
This was two days ago and he is still walking like he is not sure.  He is eating
regularly and using the liter box.  But his behavior remains the same.  We have called
the vet and they told us to keep an eye on him - which we are.  He does not seem to
be in pain.  Any thoughts?

Answer
Hi John,

Is he limping? He may have gotten a little hurt from being underfoot. And he may associate loud noises with that moment of hurt. Give him a couple of days. Talk to him quietly and give him a few treats that he likes. You can try setting up a safe room for him to calm down in.
If he walks better then I wouldn't worry about it. If he doesn't get better take him to the vet and have him checked out. Some cats get skittish. They do calm down after a bit. Hopefully everything will be okay. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

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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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