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Cats/took in mothers cats won't eat/hidding

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Expert: - 2/8/2009


Question
my mom moved out of state and I'm taking in her cats, males about 3-4 years old. I have had them 2 days and they will not eat and they are hiding. They just stay in the same spots in the room and won't come out. Do you have any suggestions?

Answer
Hi Christina,

The best suggestion I can give you is give them time. Right now they are afraid and don't know what is going on. They are missing their home and your Mom. Leave food and water out for them. They will eat and drink. But not so that you can see them yet. To gain their trust sit in the room they are in and talk quietly to them. Get some deli chicken, (cats love this), and toss a piece to them. If they don't eat it walk away and leave them alone. They will get it. Try this for a few days. I am assuming they know you from your Mothers so it shouldn't take too long for them to open up to you.

They just need a little time to get acclimated. All should be fine in a few weeks. 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.

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I have an A.A.S.

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