My cat must be bored beyond belief

[zoebartlett]

Thanks Skippy!

 

[HollyS]

He''s not bored Zoe; he''s a kitten and he''s amusing himself!

He''s exploring, and trying new things, and discovering his universe. He''ll grow out of it and be a more sedentary (asleep 14 hrs a day!) cat in no time. Males especially seem to need to act out as kittens; I''ve had 3 cats, and the male was by far the brattiest. It''s like the terrible twos -- it''ll go away eventually!

He''s a real cutiepie!

 

[zoebartlett]

So Holly, when exactly does a kitty turn into a full grown cat? Henry''s 15 months old. Please tell me he''ll turn into a big boy soon because this kitten stage is driving me nuts.

 

[HollyS]

Date: 12/17/2007 7:34:46 PM
Author: zoebartlett
So Holly, when exactly does a kitty turn into a full grown cat? Henry''s 15 months old. Please tell me he''ll turn into a big boy soon because this kitten stage is driving me nuts.

Well, like I said - - it''s like the terrible twos because it calms down after 24 mos! Also, getting him neutered is key in helping him to mature more quietly, if you have not already done so.

Have you had cats in the past? Cats are very much like children in that they need structure and discipline. All that mythology about cats being in control is just that - - mythology. I can snap my fingers and point at my cat and she will immediately sit down and be quiet. Don''t get me wrong, they will try to manipulate you; you must be the alpha cat though! When you deal with his naughtiness, remember you''re in control. Make it the same punishment for the same offense; that way he will know exactly what the consequences are when he does a specific bad trick. I found that a rolled up lightweight mailer or newspaper section as a smack on the kitty butt will get the point across. All I have to do now is reach for one, and my cat will head for the hills. It''s the noise the paper makes that will get his attention; you are not going to hurt him in the least with that flimsy swatter.

I found the water spray in the face didn''t really faze my cat. But it got my furniture and floors wet!

If he is getting into things while you are sleeping, close him up in your room with you. Or, get him a cat carrier and put him in it at bedtime, and be sure to put him in another room with the door closed so his meowwing will not keep you awake.

He''s almost grown. You''re almost home free!