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Cats/Cat behavior after kittens
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Question
I am having a hard time lately since my Male cat (zack) got my female cat (maci) pregnant. the kittens have turned 5 weeks today (3/11/2011) and are starting to do things on their own. However, Maci is still attacking Zack as well as our two dogs just for being in her line of sight. They dont even go near her or her kittens and she attacks them violently to the point we have to keep her away from the other animals. Neither Zack nor Maci are fixed atm HOWEVER we have made an appointment to get zack fixed in hopes this will end. We dont know what to do. We cant keep playing phone tag between all the animals. Is there anyway she will go back to how she used to be? or will she always need to be isolated from the other animals? any advice or tips in this situation will help tremendously as we dont want to have to get rid of Maci. Thank you
Hi Rebecca,
She sounds like she has some hyper maternal instincts. The kits may be just starting to get around but they are still dependent on her. Until they are completely weaned from her she will most likely display behavior like that. And you also try something called Feliway Comfort Zone. This mimics a cat's happy pheromones and keeps them from stressing out. Give Maci a little time. All will go back to normal soon. Good luck and take care.
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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