Expert: Tomay - 5/4/2006

Question
I need help!! I have a 2 year old cat that I have had since she was three weeks.  I found her behind an automotive garage when she was three weeks.  I had her checked and bottle fed her for three more weeks.  She is spayed and de-clawed.  She is healthy and has all of her vaccinations.  However, she is extremely aggressive.  She bites constantly and draws blood on anyone who she comes in contact with including me.  It is her and I in my apartment.  I have tried the "kitty antidepressants" so to speak a few times.  It did not work.  She has been doing this since she was a kitten and the vet told me she would grow out of it.  She didn't.  It is getting worse.  She viscously will grab someone's and just frantically bite on it until it bleeds. I have consulted three vets and they all told me my only option would probably be to out her to sleep because no one will adopt her.  Do you have any ideas of what I can do or who I can contact for help.  I am located in CT.

With Much Concern,
Jennifer  

Answer
Hello Jennifer,
Wow!  I would be concerned as well!  I am really not sure what to tell you about this, as my field is more geared toward the grooming aspects of pet care.  Have you checked on this site to see if there is a cat behavioralist?  Or perhaps in the phone book.  I, personally, could not live with a kitty like yours.  You are a patient owner!  Have you talked to the humane society in your area?  They deal with aggression issues on  a regular basis and may be able to direct you to someone who could help you learn to best handle the situation.Just know that cat bites can be extremely painful (something you may already know!), and sometimes requiring medical attention.  It may not be a good idea to subject others to her irrational behaviours.  I am sorry I can be of no more help, and I hope you are able to find a solution.
Thank you for your inquiry and your intrest in this site.
Tomay