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Question
We have just adopted a 6 month old kitten from a shelter where she had much interaction with other cats and kittens. We were told to keep her confined in a place of her own and we do as much as we can- she does jump over the gate. She cries at night when we close the actual door. She is peeing on the door and defecating not far from the door-not in her two clean potty boxes. We have a two yr old cat who has her own things elsewhere. They seem to be okay when they are near each other. I believe the kitten(Mitzvah) is acting out because she doesn't like being confined to that room. Solutions? We are also regulating feeding times. Help! We love this little Blessing of ours!
Hi Jill,
First off, have her checked by the vet to make sure that everything is ok with her. One of the signs of a sick cat is a change in litter box habits. If she checks out ok try using this stuff, http://www.preciouscat.com/ It's called Catt Attract litter. You can get it at Pet Smart. This should help a lot.
I would let your little one mingle freely now. Locking her up may also be part of the problem. Both cats sound like they have settled in and are accepting each other. See what happens if you don't lock her in. I think your problems will disappear then. Use that litter and let her roam free. All should be well. Good luck.
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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