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Cats/My neighbor's cat

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Expert: - 7/8/2007


Question
Hi Karen,
My neighbor's cat has been leaving dead animal gifts (mice, birds) in my front yard for the last month - always in the same spot.  When I dispose of one "gift" shortly thereafter another one takes its place.  Oddly, I had never even acknowledged the cat prior to this occurring.  However the cat does have a relationship with one of my dogs who jumps the fence.  In fact my observation is that they are on very friendly terms not to mention they have the same coloring.  Now... I've heard of cats leaving a gift for their owners.  My question: is this cat leaving me the gift or is it possible that the cat is leaving tokens of affection for my dog?  Quite frankly I am bewildered and do not understand why the cat has chosen my yard rather than its own!  Many thanks - Karen S.

Answer
Hi Karen,

It's kinda hard for me to say who he is leaving the presents for. If he is leaving them for your dog then he is sharing his wealth with him. He is feeding him. If for you they are a thank you.

You may not have acknowledged him but he definitely knows you are around. It is a little bizarre. But if the presents don't bother you, don't worry about it. It makes the cat happy. 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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