Are any of you familiar with Buspirone (medication)?
Question:
>5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW
Maybe this is what started his anxiety? Poor kitty 
Lauren =^..^= See my cats: http://www.picturetrail.com/mickey4paws/703043 To Error is Human, To be Purrfect is Feline
Response:
> >5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW > Maybe this is what started his anxiety? Poor kitty > Lauren
Yes, when I saw the list, I suddenly began to think about the declaw. My sister really adores these cats, and I don’t think she would have put them through the procedure if she had known of the problems it can cause. Years ago, I had plans to declaw one cat myself (long before I had done any reading on the subject). Fortunately, this cat was several months old when I adopted him, and he was a large cat; so the vet recommended against the declaw because he said the cat’s weight would cause more pain and a longer recuperation period than would have been true when he was a kitten. Later, I began to read about the dreadful effects and finally realized that this really is amputation. Furthermore, the cat trained easily to a scratching post. What a tragedy it would have been if I had subjected him to this procedure. I later adopted a wonderful little cat that had already been declawed (all four paws!!). She compensated in many ways, but her balance and agility never was the same as my cats who kept their claws; and I think that some of her litter box problems when she was elderly may have stemmed partly from no claws — that is, the pain of arthritis combined with no claws to protect her when she would try to scratch in the litter box. I don’t have any scientific evidence for this statement, but my observation leads me to believe that it is true.I bought the very softest litter for her that I could find, and that helped some. MaryL
Response:
> I have three cats and they all eat from the same bowl. They all eat dry food. I > suppose I could probably slip troublemaker some wet food with rescue remedy in > it, but I don’t know if he’d eat it, or if it would help. Are you particularly > convinced that rescue remedy works?
Nope. I’m not. I’ve tried it on several occasions and have seen absolutely no results from it. However, if you still want to give it a try, I’ve read that you can administer RR directly into the mouth (just a few drops), or rub some on the inside of the the ears, and I even had one person tell me she dilutes some in water, puts it into an atomizer, and mists it into to the air. She said it worked. >Gotcha. What about mixing it into his food? >Laura >– >>> I have one – he won’t touch it. He digs in the sink and howls if I turn off >the >> water. I’d rather leave the water on and have him drink all he wants than >try >> restricting his water access and have any kidney problems result from it.
CeCe — I do not feel obligated to believe that the same God who has endowed us with sense, reason, and intellect has intended us to forego their use. –Galileo Galilei
Response:
You may want to consult with an animal behaviorist (like Dr. Dodman) to determine what is the best course of treatment for your cat. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> While we’re talking about anti-anxiety medications, does anyone have a > suggestion for a cat that attacks when it realizes I’m leaving for work in the > morning? One vet suggested buspar, but the last thing this cat needs is more > confidence. He beats up on the other two as it is. I’ve tried Feliway and > Rescue Remedy. Feliway did nothing, and the Rescue Remedy is hard to administer > since he drinks water from a sink left running (so I can’t put it in his water > bowl) and putting the drops into his mouth is a huge battle. I gave up on that. > He’s been seen by four different vets and has had blood work done to rule out > any abnormalities.
Response:
> Amitriptyline is another anti-anxiety med and is not the same as prozac. > Prozac is also know as fluoxetine. As I said before, sometimes it takes > trial and error to find out what anti-anxiety med will work for your cat. > Sue
Thanks, Sue. I appreciate the information. I forwarded your other message (and also Gail’s) to my sister, and I’ll also send this on. I hope she can find a solution — she is desperate for one. MaryL
Response:
>the Rescue Remedy is hard to administer >since he drinks water from a sink left running (so I can’t put it in his >water >bowl) and putting the drops into his mouth is a huge battle. I gave up on >that.
Have you tried putting the Rescue Remedy on his fur and letting him lick it off? I know some people rub it into the outside of the cat’s ears and claim it can be absorbed that way, but I prefer putting on the fur and letting the cat lick it off. The thing about RR is that you need to give it consistently. You can’t just give it a few times and then stop. It will take a few weeks to see effects. Your cat may also need a more specific remedy. If you can figure out which one, you can buy them individually at most health food stores. You might want to check out these sites: http://www.catfaeries.com/ http://www.petsynergy.com/flower.html#C1 HTH, Lauren =^..^= See my cats: http://www.picturetrail.com/mickey4paws/703043 To Error is Human, To be Purrfect is Feline
Response:
I have a cat with whom I am just about at my wit’s end with in regards to his spraying. He also beats up on one of my hubby’s cats for no apparent reason. I have tried just about everything from A to Z including speaking with an animal behavorist. I’ve tried Feliway and Rescue Remedy – no luck. My cat seems to be immune to everything. I have asked the vet about drugs but she doesn’t want to go that route because of problems it may have health-wise. I guess there have been some kidney (or was it liver?) problems associated with either prozac or another kind but I can’t quite recall. If what you are saying is true, that Buspar has no long-term effects, than I will most definitely check into it. In fact I will call my vet tomorrow and get her opinion and write back. Thanks for the information and good luck to your sister. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
Response:
Amitriptyline is another anti-anxiety med and is not the same as prozac. Prozac is also know as fluoxetine. As I said before, sometimes it takes trial and error to find out what anti-anxiety med will work for your cat. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. > Thanks, > MaryL > Thanks for the information on Buspar. I have seen good information in > your responses to this NG and have also received personal e-mail. I > really do appreciate the help. > I checked with my sister, and Kelly is actually 5 years old (not 4). > She sent me this list of treatments that he has had: > DATE/TREATMENT > 4/26/1997First Vet visit > 4/26/1997FVRCP given elsewhere date? > 4/29/1997fecal exam > 5/12/1997fecal exam > 5/12/1997AMFOROL oral suspension > 5/15/1997AMFOROL oral suspension > 5/29/1997declaw anesthesia > 5/29/1997TELAZOL > 5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW > 5/29/1997FVRCP 2 OF 2 > 5/29/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA > 6/9/1997ANTIROBE AQUADROPS > 7/8/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA 2 OF 2 > 9/16/1997FLV BLOOD TEST > 9/16/1997CITE FELV PROB > 9/16/1997NEUTERED > 5/15/1998ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA > 2/5/1999URINALYSIS > 2/5/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS > 2/13/1999URINALYSIS > 2/15/1999UR FORMULA CAT FOOD BEGUN1/25/00 STOPPED > 2/27/1999URINALYSIS > 4/8/1999URINALYSIS > 4/9/1999ACEPROMAZINE 10 MG > 4/9/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS > 4/17/1999XRAY (LOOKING FOR BLOCKAGE??) > 4/17/1999CYSTOCENTESIS > 4/17/1999URINALYSIS > 4/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 > 5/8/1999URINALYSIS > 6/25/1999ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA > 6/25/1999AMITRIPTYLINE 10 MG IN USE UNTIL 4/00 > 12/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 > 1/17/2000ORBAX 22.7 MG GREEN > 2/11/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT > 2/14/2000ZENIQUIN 50 MG > 2/26/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT > Does this provide enough information for anyone to hazard an educated > guess as to why she has this continuing problem? Kelly was on > Amitriptyline (Prozac) from 6/99 to 4/00 when my sister gave up as it > was no longer effective. She went to a holistic vet who recommended an > herb but it didn’t have any effect. She can’t remember which herb was > recommnded (several years ago). > My sister is also interested in information about dosage for Buspar. I > sent her to the web site that Gail posted > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html), and that site said > to give 5 mg twice daily. However, her vet prescribed 5 mg daily in two > doses and that is all the prescription is for (total of 5mg daily, not > 10mg). Note: her vet also said that he is not familiar with this > medication. > Thanks for your help. > MaryL
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. > Thanks, > MaryL
Thanks for the information on Buspar. I have seen good information in your responses to this NG and have also received personal e-mail. I really do appreciate the help. I checked with my sister, and Kelly is actually 5 years old (not 4). She sent me this list of treatments that he has had: DATE/TREATMENT 4/26/1997First Vet visit 4/26/1997FVRCP given elsewhere date? 4/29/1997fecal exam 5/12/1997fecal exam 5/12/1997AMFOROL oral suspension 5/15/1997AMFOROL oral suspension 5/29/1997declaw anesthesia 5/29/1997TELAZOL 5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW 5/29/1997FVRCP 2 OF 2 5/29/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA 6/9/1997ANTIROBE AQUADROPS 7/8/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA 2 OF 2 9/16/1997FLV BLOOD TEST 9/16/1997CITE FELV PROB 9/16/1997NEUTERED 5/15/1998ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA 2/5/1999URINALYSIS 2/5/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS 2/13/1999URINALYSIS 2/15/1999UR FORMULA CAT FOOD BEGUN1/25/00 STOPPED 2/27/1999URINALYSIS 4/8/1999URINALYSIS 4/9/1999ACEPROMAZINE 10 MG 4/9/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS 4/17/1999XRAY (LOOKING FOR BLOCKAGE??) 4/17/1999CYSTOCENTESIS 4/17/1999URINALYSIS 4/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 5/8/1999URINALYSIS 6/25/1999ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA 6/25/1999AMITRIPTYLINE 10 MG IN USE UNTIL 4/00 12/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 1/17/2000ORBAX 22.7 MG GREEN 2/11/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT 2/14/2000ZENIQUIN 50 MG 2/26/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT Does this provide enough information for anyone to hazard an educated guess as to why she has this continuing problem? Kelly was on Amitriptyline (Prozac) from 6/99 to 4/00 when my sister gave up as it was no longer effective. She went to a holistic vet who recommended an herb but it didn’t have any effect. She can’t remember which herb was recommnded (several years ago). My sister is also interested in information about dosage for Buspar. I sent her to the web site that Gail posted (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html), and that site said to give 5 mg twice daily. However, her vet prescribed 5 mg daily in two doses and that is all the prescription is for (total of 5mg daily, not 10mg). Note: her vet also said that he is not familiar with this medication. Thanks for your help. MaryL
Response:
While we’re talking about anti-anxiety medications, does anyone have a suggestion for a cat that attacks when it realizes I’m leaving for work in the morning? One vet suggested buspar, but the last thing this cat needs is more confidence. He beats up on the other two as it is. I’ve tried Feliway and Rescue Remedy. Feliway did nothing, and the Rescue Remedy is hard to administer since he drinks water from a sink left running (so I can’t put it in his water bowl) and putting the drops into his mouth is a huge battle. I gave up on that. He’s been seen by four different vets and has had blood work done to rule out any abnormalities.
Response:
I wanted to add that there are several different anti-anxiety meds available to help stop a cat from spraying. You have to try and determine why your cat is spraying and decide what med may help the most. Sometimes it takes trial and error to find out what works. Good luck. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Buspar can be helpful in stopping a cat’s spraying behavior. Buspar gives a > cat that is feeling anxious more confidence. Another medication that can be > used is prozac. I also have a spraying cat. I contacted Dr. Nicholas > Dodman (a reknown animal behaviorist from Tuft’s) to help with my cat’s > problem. Dr. Dodman prescribed prozac for my cat rather than buspirone > because my cat was very territorial and did not need anymore confidence. > The prozac, along with other behavior modifications, really helped get my > cat’s spraying under control. > Dr. Dodman offers programs called PETFAX and VETFAX where he and his > associates will provide assistance with an animal’s behavioral problem. > Your sister may want to check this out. Here’s some info on Dr. Dodman: > http://www.tufts.edu/vet/facpages/dodman_n.html I found it extremely > worthwhile. > Good luck to your sister. I hope she can get her cat’s behavior under > control. I know from experience how difficult this can be. > Sue > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
Response:
I have one – he won’t touch it. He digs in the sink and howls if I turn off the water. I’d rather leave the water on and have him drink all he wants than try restricting his water access and have any kidney problems result from it. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Have you thought about getting a Drinkwell fountain and leaving the >filter out? Might work. >Laura
Response:
>While we’re talking about anti-anxiety >medications, does anyone have a >suggestion for a cat that attacks when it >realizes I’m leaving for work in the >morning?
Could you please give a detailed description of what happens (before, during and after)? Also, a detailed description of what happens when he beats up on the other cats? There may be a solution to this that won’t require medication. Megan "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu’s Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22
Response:
I have three cats and they all eat from the same bowl. They all eat dry food. I suppose I could probably slip troublemaker some wet food with rescue remedy in it, but I don’t know if he’d eat it, or if it would help. Are you particularly convinced that rescue remedy works? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Gotcha. What about mixing it into his food? >Laura >– >> I have one – he won’t touch it. He digs in the sink and howls if I turn off >the > water. I’d rather leave the water on and have him drink all he wants than >try > restricting his water access and have any kidney problems result from it.
Response:
I’ve posted the whole saga before, and I’ve consulted 4 different vets about it. Everyone says they’ve never seen a cat react this way, only dogs. He has separation anxiety. When I get ready to leave in the morning I have to walk backwards towards the door talking calmly to my cat or else he’ll throw himself at my heels biting and clawing. Sometimes I literally run out the door. I can tell when he’s going to do it because he starts creeping up on me like he would an animal he’s stalking for prey, then he tilts his head sideways preparing to bite. If he does manage to bite he’ll continue to do it until I can get away from him. There have been times I’ve had to run into the bathroom and shut the door, and I’ve had wounds that probably should have had stitches. He’s an indoor kitty with plenty of things to do indoors. It’s not safe for him to go outside because of the wildlife in the area we live. The biting started when he was about 1 year old, when I started working fulltime. I always come home during lunch to visit him, so I don’t think he’s that lonely. When this behaviour started he was the only cat in the household. I got a second cat to try to keep him company, but that one is scared to death of him. I don’t blame her. She’s not social towards cats, so usually just leaves him alone or runs from him. A year ago I got a third cat, not by choice – someone gave me a 3 week old kitten that was found on the railroad tracks. I bottle-raised that one and introduced it to the aggressive male when he was 6 months old. They are great buddies and play very rough together. I thought maybe rough play would curb his need to be aggressive with me, but it didn’t. All the cats in the household are fixed. Like I said in another post, he’s had blood work done to rule out any chemical abnormalities. He also attacks if he’s yelled at for doing something bad, or if I use a squirt bottle on him. Sometimes he gets mad even when I disappear into the shower. He isn’t very clingy to me when I’m home, but does like to sleep on the bed with me. None of the vets I’ve taken him to have had any answers. They all say they’ve never seen a cat like this, and that he’s obviously a smart one. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Could you please give a detailed description of what happens (before, >during and after)? Also, a detailed description of what happens when he >beats up on the other cats? There may be a solution to this that won’t >require medication. >While we’re talking about anti-anxiety >medications, does anyone have a >suggestion for a cat that attacks when it >realizes I’m leaving for work in the >morning?
Response:
They all eat dry food. I don’t think I could mix it into dry food very easily without making a mess. I did try putting diluted rescue remedy in a spray bottle and misting it onto his bedding (suggested by someone in the newsgroups) but that didn’t seem to have any effect. Feeding wet food is not an option. One of the cats won’t eat any sort of wet food, and besides it makes the litterbox smell horribly. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Nope, I just got the impression that you were saying it had worked >for you. I’ve not had occasion to use it. However, if it does work, I >would think that it wouldn’t harm the other cats, so mixing it into >the food might be a simple thing to try. >Laura > I have three cats and they all eat from the same bowl. They all eat dry >food. I > suppose I could probably slip troublemaker some wet food with rescue remedy >in > it, but I don’t know if he’d eat it, or if it would help. Are you >particularly > convince
Response:
I have a cat that also sprayed. He is neutered and has no medical problems. I tried Feliway and also an anti-depressant medication. Buspar was the one that helped him stop the spraying. It is definitely worth trying and can be used long term. Gail – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
Response:
Buspar can be helpful in stopping a cat’s spraying behavior. Buspar gives a cat that is feeling anxious more confidence. Another medication that can be used is prozac. I also have a spraying cat. I contacted Dr. Nicholas Dodman (a reknown animal behaviorist from Tuft’s) to help with my cat’s problem. Dr. Dodman prescribed prozac for my cat rather than buspirone because my cat was very territorial and did not need anymore confidence. The prozac, along with other behavior modifications, really helped get my cat’s spraying under control. Dr. Dodman offers programs called PETFAX and VETFAX where he and his associates will provide assistance with an animal’s behavioral problem. Your sister may want to check this out. Here’s some info on Dr. Dodman: http://www.tufts.edu/vet/facpages/dodman_n.html I found it extremely worthwhile. Good luck to your sister. I hope she can get her cat’s behavior under control. I know from experience how difficult this can be. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
Response:
Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a prescription. I also located this site (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral modification. My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway diffuser," as she suggested. I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost anything for them. Thanks, MaryL
Response:
>5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW
Maybe this is what started his anxiety? Poor kitty Lauren =^..^= See my cats: http://www.picturetrail.com/mickey4paws/703043 To Error is Human, To be Purrfect is Feline
Response:
> >5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW > Maybe this is what started his anxiety? Poor kitty > Lauren
Yes, when I saw the list, I suddenly began to think about the declaw. My sister really adores these cats, and I don’t think she would have put them through the procedure if she had known of the problems it can cause. Years ago, I had plans to declaw one cat myself (long before I had done any reading on the subject). Fortunately, this cat was several months old when I adopted him, and he was a large cat; so the vet recommended against the declaw because he said the cat’s weight would cause more pain and a longer recuperation period than would have been true when he was a kitten. Later, I began to read about the dreadful effects and finally realized that this really is amputation. Furthermore, the cat trained easily to a scratching post. What a tragedy it would have been if I had subjected him to this procedure. I later adopted a wonderful little cat that had already been declawed (all four paws!!). She compensated in many ways, but her balance and agility never was the same as my cats who kept their claws; and I think that some of her litter box problems when she was elderly may have stemmed partly from no claws — that is, the pain of arthritis combined with no claws to protect her when she would try to scratch in the litter box. I don’t have any scientific evidence for this statement, but my observation leads me to believe that it is true.I bought the very softest litter for her that I could find, and that helped some. MaryL
Response:
> I have three cats and they all eat from the same bowl. They all eat dry food. I > suppose I could probably slip troublemaker some wet food with rescue remedy in > it, but I don’t know if he’d eat it, or if it would help. Are you particularly > convinced that rescue remedy works?
Nope. I’m not. I’ve tried it on several occasions and have seen absolutely no results from it. However, if you still want to give it a try, I’ve read that you can administer RR directly into the mouth (just a few drops), or rub some on the inside of the the ears, and I even had one person tell me she dilutes some in water, puts it into an atomizer, and mists it into to the air. She said it worked. >Gotcha. What about mixing it into his food? >Laura >– >>> I have one – he won’t touch it. He digs in the sink and howls if I turn off >the >> water. I’d rather leave the water on and have him drink all he wants than >try >> restricting his water access and have any kidney problems result from it.
CeCe — I do not feel obligated to believe that the same God who has endowed us with sense, reason, and intellect has intended us to forego their use. –Galileo Galilei
Response:
You may want to consult with an animal behaviorist (like Dr. Dodman) to determine what is the best course of treatment for your cat. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> While we’re talking about anti-anxiety medications, does anyone have a > suggestion for a cat that attacks when it realizes I’m leaving for work in the > morning? One vet suggested buspar, but the last thing this cat needs is more > confidence. He beats up on the other two as it is. I’ve tried Feliway and > Rescue Remedy. Feliway did nothing, and the Rescue Remedy is hard to administer > since he drinks water from a sink left running (so I can’t put it in his water > bowl) and putting the drops into his mouth is a huge battle. I gave up on that. > He’s been seen by four different vets and has had blood work done to rule out > any abnormalities.
Response:
> Amitriptyline is another anti-anxiety med and is not the same as prozac. > Prozac is also know as fluoxetine. As I said before, sometimes it takes > trial and error to find out what anti-anxiety med will work for your cat. > Sue
Thanks, Sue. I appreciate the information. I forwarded your other message (and also Gail’s) to my sister, and I’ll also send this on. I hope she can find a solution — she is desperate for one. MaryL
Response:
>the Rescue Remedy is hard to administer >since he drinks water from a sink left running (so I can’t put it in his >water >bowl) and putting the drops into his mouth is a huge battle. I gave up on >that.
Have you tried putting the Rescue Remedy on his fur and letting him lick it off? I know some people rub it into the outside of the cat’s ears and claim it can be absorbed that way, but I prefer putting on the fur and letting the cat lick it off. The thing about RR is that you need to give it consistently. You can’t just give it a few times and then stop. It will take a few weeks to see effects. Your cat may also need a more specific remedy. If you can figure out which one, you can buy them individually at most health food stores. You might want to check out these sites: http://www.catfaeries.com/ http://www.petsynergy.com/flower.html#C1 HTH, Lauren =^..^= See my cats: http://www.picturetrail.com/mickey4paws/703043 To Error is Human, To be Purrfect is Feline
Response:
I have a cat with whom I am just about at my wit’s end with in regards to his spraying. He also beats up on one of my hubby’s cats for no apparent reason. I have tried just about everything from A to Z including speaking with an animal behavorist. I’ve tried Feliway and Rescue Remedy – no luck. My cat seems to be immune to everything. I have asked the vet about drugs but she doesn’t want to go that route because of problems it may have health-wise. I guess there have been some kidney (or was it liver?) problems associated with either prozac or another kind but I can’t quite recall. If what you are saying is true, that Buspar has no long-term effects, than I will most definitely check into it. In fact I will call my vet tomorrow and get her opinion and write back. Thanks for the information and good luck to your sister. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
Response:
Amitriptyline is another anti-anxiety med and is not the same as prozac. Prozac is also know as fluoxetine. As I said before, sometimes it takes trial and error to find out what anti-anxiety med will work for your cat. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. > Thanks, > MaryL > Thanks for the information on Buspar. I have seen good information in > your responses to this NG and have also received personal e-mail. I > really do appreciate the help. > I checked with my sister, and Kelly is actually 5 years old (not 4). > She sent me this list of treatments that he has had: > DATE/TREATMENT > 4/26/1997First Vet visit > 4/26/1997FVRCP given elsewhere date? > 4/29/1997fecal exam > 5/12/1997fecal exam > 5/12/1997AMFOROL oral suspension > 5/15/1997AMFOROL oral suspension > 5/29/1997declaw anesthesia > 5/29/1997TELAZOL > 5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW > 5/29/1997FVRCP 2 OF 2 > 5/29/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA > 6/9/1997ANTIROBE AQUADROPS > 7/8/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA 2 OF 2 > 9/16/1997FLV BLOOD TEST > 9/16/1997CITE FELV PROB > 9/16/1997NEUTERED > 5/15/1998ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA > 2/5/1999URINALYSIS > 2/5/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS > 2/13/1999URINALYSIS > 2/15/1999UR FORMULA CAT FOOD BEGUN1/25/00 STOPPED > 2/27/1999URINALYSIS > 4/8/1999URINALYSIS > 4/9/1999ACEPROMAZINE 10 MG > 4/9/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS > 4/17/1999XRAY (LOOKING FOR BLOCKAGE??) > 4/17/1999CYSTOCENTESIS > 4/17/1999URINALYSIS > 4/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 > 5/8/1999URINALYSIS > 6/25/1999ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA > 6/25/1999AMITRIPTYLINE 10 MG IN USE UNTIL 4/00 > 12/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 > 1/17/2000ORBAX 22.7 MG GREEN > 2/11/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT > 2/14/2000ZENIQUIN 50 MG > 2/26/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT > Does this provide enough information for anyone to hazard an educated > guess as to why she has this continuing problem? Kelly was on > Amitriptyline (Prozac) from 6/99 to 4/00 when my sister gave up as it > was no longer effective. She went to a holistic vet who recommended an > herb but it didn’t have any effect. She can’t remember which herb was > recommnded (several years ago). > My sister is also interested in information about dosage for Buspar. I > sent her to the web site that Gail posted > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html), and that site said > to give 5 mg twice daily. However, her vet prescribed 5 mg daily in two > doses and that is all the prescription is for (total of 5mg daily, not > 10mg). Note: her vet also said that he is not familiar with this > medication. > Thanks for your help. > MaryL
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. > Thanks, > MaryL
Thanks for the information on Buspar. I have seen good information in your responses to this NG and have also received personal e-mail. I really do appreciate the help. I checked with my sister, and Kelly is actually 5 years old (not 4). She sent me this list of treatments that he has had: DATE/TREATMENT 4/26/1997First Vet visit 4/26/1997FVRCP given elsewhere date? 4/29/1997fecal exam 5/12/1997fecal exam 5/12/1997AMFOROL oral suspension 5/15/1997AMFOROL oral suspension 5/29/1997declaw anesthesia 5/29/1997TELAZOL 5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW 5/29/1997FVRCP 2 OF 2 5/29/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA 6/9/1997ANTIROBE AQUADROPS 7/8/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA 2 OF 2 9/16/1997FLV BLOOD TEST 9/16/1997CITE FELV PROB 9/16/1997NEUTERED 5/15/1998ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA 2/5/1999URINALYSIS 2/5/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS 2/13/1999URINALYSIS 2/15/1999UR FORMULA CAT FOOD BEGUN1/25/00 STOPPED 2/27/1999URINALYSIS 4/8/1999URINALYSIS 4/9/1999ACEPROMAZINE 10 MG 4/9/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS 4/17/1999XRAY (LOOKING FOR BLOCKAGE??) 4/17/1999CYSTOCENTESIS 4/17/1999URINALYSIS 4/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 5/8/1999URINALYSIS 6/25/1999ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA 6/25/1999AMITRIPTYLINE 10 MG IN USE UNTIL 4/00 12/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 1/17/2000ORBAX 22.7 MG GREEN 2/11/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT 2/14/2000ZENIQUIN 50 MG 2/26/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT Does this provide enough information for anyone to hazard an educated guess as to why she has this continuing problem? Kelly was on Amitriptyline (Prozac) from 6/99 to 4/00 when my sister gave up as it was no longer effective. She went to a holistic vet who recommended an herb but it didn’t have any effect. She can’t remember which herb was recommnded (several years ago). My sister is also interested in information about dosage for Buspar. I sent her to the web site that Gail posted (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html), and that site said to give 5 mg twice daily. However, her vet prescribed 5 mg daily in two doses and that is all the prescription is for (total of 5mg daily, not 10mg). Note: her vet also said that he is not familiar with this medication. Thanks for your help. MaryL
Response:
While we’re talking about anti-anxiety medications, does anyone have a suggestion for a cat that attacks when it realizes I’m leaving for work in the morning? One vet suggested buspar, but the last thing this cat needs is more confidence. He beats up on the other two as it is. I’ve tried Feliway and Rescue Remedy. Feliway did nothing, and the Rescue Remedy is hard to administer since he drinks water from a sink left running (so I can’t put it in his water bowl) and putting the drops into his mouth is a huge battle. I gave up on that. He’s been seen by four different vets and has had blood work done to rule out any abnormalities.
Response:
I wanted to add that there are several different anti-anxiety meds available to help stop a cat from spraying. You have to try and determine why your cat is spraying and decide what med may help the most. Sometimes it takes trial and error to find out what works. Good luck. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Buspar can be helpful in stopping a cat’s spraying behavior. Buspar gives a > cat that is feeling anxious more confidence. Another medication that can be > used is prozac. I also have a spraying cat. I contacted Dr. Nicholas > Dodman (a reknown animal behaviorist from Tuft’s) to help with my cat’s > problem. Dr. Dodman prescribed prozac for my cat rather than buspirone > because my cat was very territorial and did not need anymore confidence. > The prozac, along with other behavior modifications, really helped get my > cat’s spraying under control. > Dr. Dodman offers programs called PETFAX and VETFAX where he and his > associates will provide assistance with an animal’s behavioral problem. > Your sister may want to check this out. Here’s some info on Dr. Dodman: > http://www.tufts.edu/vet/facpages/dodman_n.html I found it extremely > worthwhile. > Good luck to your sister. I hope she can get her cat’s behavior under > control. I know from experience how difficult this can be. > Sue > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
Response:
I have one – he won’t touch it. He digs in the sink and howls if I turn off the water. I’d rather leave the water on and have him drink all he wants than try restricting his water access and have any kidney problems result from it. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Have you thought about getting a Drinkwell fountain and leaving the >filter out? Might work. >Laura
Response:
>While we’re talking about anti-anxiety >medications, does anyone have a >suggestion for a cat that attacks when it >realizes I’m leaving for work in the >morning?
Could you please give a detailed description of what happens (before, during and after)? Also, a detailed description of what happens when he beats up on the other cats? There may be a solution to this that won’t require medication. Megan "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu’s Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22
Response:
I have three cats and they all eat from the same bowl. They all eat dry food. I suppose I could probably slip troublemaker some wet food with rescue remedy in it, but I don’t know if he’d eat it, or if it would help. Are you particularly convinced that rescue remedy works? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Gotcha. What about mixing it into his food? >Laura >– >> I have one – he won’t touch it. He digs in the sink and howls if I turn off >the > water. I’d rather leave the water on and have him drink all he wants than >try > restricting his water access and have any kidney problems result from it.
Response:
I’ve posted the whole saga before, and I’ve consulted 4 different vets about it. Everyone says they’ve never seen a cat react this way, only dogs. He has separation anxiety. When I get ready to leave in the morning I have to walk backwards towards the door talking calmly to my cat or else he’ll throw himself at my heels biting and clawing. Sometimes I literally run out the door. I can tell when he’s going to do it because he starts creeping up on me like he would an animal he’s stalking for prey, then he tilts his head sideways preparing to bite. If he does manage to bite he’ll continue to do it until I can get away from him. There have been times I’ve had to run into the bathroom and shut the door, and I’ve had wounds that probably should have had stitches. He’s an indoor kitty with plenty of things to do indoors. It’s not safe for him to go outside because of the wildlife in the area we live. The biting started when he was about 1 year old, when I started working fulltime. I always come home during lunch to visit him, so I don’t think he’s that lonely. When this behaviour started he was the only cat in the household. I got a second cat to try to keep him company, but that one is scared to death of him. I don’t blame her. She’s not social towards cats, so usually just leaves him alone or runs from him. A year ago I got a third cat, not by choice – someone gave me a 3 week old kitten that was found on the railroad tracks. I bottle-raised that one and introduced it to the aggressive male when he was 6 months old. They are great buddies and play very rough together. I thought maybe rough play would curb his need to be aggressive with me, but it didn’t. All the cats in the household are fixed. Like I said in another post, he’s had blood work done to rule out any chemical abnormalities. He also attacks if he’s yelled at for doing something bad, or if I use a squirt bottle on him. Sometimes he gets mad even when I disappear into the shower. He isn’t very clingy to me when I’m home, but does like to sleep on the bed with me. None of the vets I’ve taken him to have had any answers. They all say they’ve never seen a cat like this, and that he’s obviously a smart one. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Could you please give a detailed description of what happens (before, >during and after)? Also, a detailed description of what happens when he >beats up on the other cats? There may be a solution to this that won’t >require medication. >While we’re talking about anti-anxiety >medications, does anyone have a >suggestion for a cat that attacks when it >realizes I’m leaving for work in the >morning?
Response:
They all eat dry food. I don’t think I could mix it into dry food very easily without making a mess. I did try putting diluted rescue remedy in a spray bottle and misting it onto his bedding (suggested by someone in the newsgroups) but that didn’t seem to have any effect. Feeding wet food is not an option. One of the cats won’t eat any sort of wet food, and besides it makes the litterbox smell horribly. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Nope, I just got the impression that you were saying it had worked >for you. I’ve not had occasion to use it. However, if it does work, I >would think that it wouldn’t harm the other cats, so mixing it into >the food might be a simple thing to try. >Laura > I have three cats and they all eat from the same bowl. They all eat dry >food. I > suppose I could probably slip troublemaker some wet food with rescue remedy >in > it, but I don’t know if he’d eat it, or if it would help. Are you >particularly > convince
Response:
I have a cat that also sprayed. He is neutered and has no medical problems. I tried Feliway and also an anti-depressant medication. Buspar was the one that helped him stop the spraying. It is definitely worth trying and can be used long term. Gail – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
Response:
Buspar can be helpful in stopping a cat’s spraying behavior. Buspar gives a cat that is feeling anxious more confidence. Another medication that can be used is prozac. I also have a spraying cat. I contacted Dr. Nicholas Dodman (a reknown animal behaviorist from Tuft’s) to help with my cat’s problem. Dr. Dodman prescribed prozac for my cat rather than buspirone because my cat was very territorial and did not need anymore confidence. The prozac, along with other behavior modifications, really helped get my cat’s spraying under control. Dr. Dodman offers programs called PETFAX and VETFAX where he and his associates will provide assistance with an animal’s behavioral problem. Your sister may want to check this out. Here’s some info on Dr. Dodman: http://www.tufts.edu/vet/facpages/dodman_n.html I found it extremely worthwhile. Good luck to your sister. I hope she can get her cat’s behavior under control. I know from experience how difficult this can be. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
Response:
Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a prescription. I also located this site (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral modification. My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway diffuser," as she suggested. I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost anything for them. Thanks, MaryL
Response:
>5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW
Maybe this is what started his anxiety? Poor kitty Lauren =^..^= See my cats: http://www.picturetrail.com/mickey4paws/703043 To Error is Human, To be Purrfect is Feline
Response:
> >5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW > Maybe this is what started his anxiety? Poor kitty > Lauren
Yes, when I saw the list, I suddenly began to think about the declaw. My sister really adores these cats, and I don’t think she would have put them through the procedure if she had known of the problems it can cause. Years ago, I had plans to declaw one cat myself (long before I had done any reading on the subject). Fortunately, this cat was several months old when I adopted him, and he was a large cat; so the vet recommended against the declaw because he said the cat’s weight would cause more pain and a longer recuperation period than would have been true when he was a kitten. Later, I began to read about the dreadful effects and finally realized that this really is amputation. Furthermore, the cat trained easily to a scratching post. What a tragedy it would have been if I had subjected him to this procedure. I later adopted a wonderful little cat that had already been declawed (all four paws!!). She compensated in many ways, but her balance and agility never was the same as my cats who kept their claws; and I think that some of her litter box problems when she was elderly may have stemmed partly from no claws — that is, the pain of arthritis combined with no claws to protect her when she would try to scratch in the litter box. I don’t have any scientific evidence for this statement, but my observation leads me to believe that it is true.I bought the very softest litter for her that I could find, and that helped some. MaryL
Response:
> I have three cats and they all eat from the same bowl. They all eat dry food. I > suppose I could probably slip troublemaker some wet food with rescue remedy in > it, but I don’t know if he’d eat it, or if it would help. Are you particularly > convinced that rescue remedy works?
Nope. I’m not. I’ve tried it on several occasions and have seen absolutely no results from it. However, if you still want to give it a try, I’ve read that you can administer RR directly into the mouth (just a few drops), or rub some on the inside of the the ears, and I even had one person tell me she dilutes some in water, puts it into an atomizer, and mists it into to the air. She said it worked. >Gotcha. What about mixing it into his food? >Laura >– >>> I have one – he won’t touch it. He digs in the sink and howls if I turn off >the >> water. I’d rather leave the water on and have him drink all he wants than >try >> restricting his water access and have any kidney problems result from it.
CeCe — I do not feel obligated to believe that the same God who has endowed us with sense, reason, and intellect has intended us to forego their use. –Galileo Galilei
Response:
You may want to consult with an animal behaviorist (like Dr. Dodman) to determine what is the best course of treatment for your cat. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> While we’re talking about anti-anxiety medications, does anyone have a > suggestion for a cat that attacks when it realizes I’m leaving for work in the > morning? One vet suggested buspar, but the last thing this cat needs is more > confidence. He beats up on the other two as it is. I’ve tried Feliway and > Rescue Remedy. Feliway did nothing, and the Rescue Remedy is hard to administer > since he drinks water from a sink left running (so I can’t put it in his water > bowl) and putting the drops into his mouth is a huge battle. I gave up on that. > He’s been seen by four different vets and has had blood work done to rule out > any abnormalities.
Response:
> Amitriptyline is another anti-anxiety med and is not the same as prozac. > Prozac is also know as fluoxetine. As I said before, sometimes it takes > trial and error to find out what anti-anxiety med will work for your cat. > Sue
Thanks, Sue. I appreciate the information. I forwarded your other message (and also Gail’s) to my sister, and I’ll also send this on. I hope she can find a solution — she is desperate for one. MaryL
Response:
>the Rescue Remedy is hard to administer >since he drinks water from a sink left running (so I can’t put it in his >water >bowl) and putting the drops into his mouth is a huge battle. I gave up on >that.
Have you tried putting the Rescue Remedy on his fur and letting him lick it off? I know some people rub it into the outside of the cat’s ears and claim it can be absorbed that way, but I prefer putting on the fur and letting the cat lick it off. The thing about RR is that you need to give it consistently. You can’t just give it a few times and then stop. It will take a few weeks to see effects. Your cat may also need a more specific remedy. If you can figure out which one, you can buy them individually at most health food stores. You might want to check out these sites: http://www.catfaeries.com/ http://www.petsynergy.com/flower.html#C1 HTH, Lauren =^..^= See my cats: http://www.picturetrail.com/mickey4paws/703043 To Error is Human, To be Purrfect is Feline
Response:
I have a cat with whom I am just about at my wit’s end with in regards to his spraying. He also beats up on one of my hubby’s cats for no apparent reason. I have tried just about everything from A to Z including speaking with an animal behavorist. I’ve tried Feliway and Rescue Remedy – no luck. My cat seems to be immune to everything. I have asked the vet about drugs but she doesn’t want to go that route because of problems it may have health-wise. I guess there have been some kidney (or was it liver?) problems associated with either prozac or another kind but I can’t quite recall. If what you are saying is true, that Buspar has no long-term effects, than I will most definitely check into it. In fact I will call my vet tomorrow and get her opinion and write back. Thanks for the information and good luck to your sister. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
Response:
Amitriptyline is another anti-anxiety med and is not the same as prozac. Prozac is also know as fluoxetine. As I said before, sometimes it takes trial and error to find out what anti-anxiety med will work for your cat. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. > Thanks, > MaryL > Thanks for the information on Buspar. I have seen good information in > your responses to this NG and have also received personal e-mail. I > really do appreciate the help. > I checked with my sister, and Kelly is actually 5 years old (not 4). > She sent me this list of treatments that he has had: > DATE/TREATMENT > 4/26/1997First Vet visit > 4/26/1997FVRCP given elsewhere date? > 4/29/1997fecal exam > 5/12/1997fecal exam > 5/12/1997AMFOROL oral suspension > 5/15/1997AMFOROL oral suspension > 5/29/1997declaw anesthesia > 5/29/1997TELAZOL > 5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW > 5/29/1997FVRCP 2 OF 2 > 5/29/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA > 6/9/1997ANTIROBE AQUADROPS > 7/8/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA 2 OF 2 > 9/16/1997FLV BLOOD TEST > 9/16/1997CITE FELV PROB > 9/16/1997NEUTERED > 5/15/1998ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA > 2/5/1999URINALYSIS > 2/5/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS > 2/13/1999URINALYSIS > 2/15/1999UR FORMULA CAT FOOD BEGUN1/25/00 STOPPED > 2/27/1999URINALYSIS > 4/8/1999URINALYSIS > 4/9/1999ACEPROMAZINE 10 MG > 4/9/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS > 4/17/1999XRAY (LOOKING FOR BLOCKAGE??) > 4/17/1999CYSTOCENTESIS > 4/17/1999URINALYSIS > 4/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 > 5/8/1999URINALYSIS > 6/25/1999ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA > 6/25/1999AMITRIPTYLINE 10 MG IN USE UNTIL 4/00 > 12/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 > 1/17/2000ORBAX 22.7 MG GREEN > 2/11/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT > 2/14/2000ZENIQUIN 50 MG > 2/26/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT > Does this provide enough information for anyone to hazard an educated > guess as to why she has this continuing problem? Kelly was on > Amitriptyline (Prozac) from 6/99 to 4/00 when my sister gave up as it > was no longer effective. She went to a holistic vet who recommended an > herb but it didn’t have any effect. She can’t remember which herb was > recommnded (several years ago). > My sister is also interested in information about dosage for Buspar. I > sent her to the web site that Gail posted > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html), and that site said > to give 5 mg twice daily. However, her vet prescribed 5 mg daily in two > doses and that is all the prescription is for (total of 5mg daily, not > 10mg). Note: her vet also said that he is not familiar with this > medication. > Thanks for your help. > MaryL
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. > Thanks, > MaryL
Thanks for the information on Buspar. I have seen good information in your responses to this NG and have also received personal e-mail. I really do appreciate the help. I checked with my sister, and Kelly is actually 5 years old (not 4). She sent me this list of treatments that he has had: DATE/TREATMENT 4/26/1997First Vet visit 4/26/1997FVRCP given elsewhere date? 4/29/1997fecal exam 5/12/1997fecal exam 5/12/1997AMFOROL oral suspension 5/15/1997AMFOROL oral suspension 5/29/1997declaw anesthesia 5/29/1997TELAZOL 5/29/1997FRONT DECLAW 5/29/1997FVRCP 2 OF 2 5/29/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA 6/9/1997ANTIROBE AQUADROPS 7/8/1997FELINE LEUKEMIA 2 OF 2 9/16/1997FLV BLOOD TEST 9/16/1997CITE FELV PROB 9/16/1997NEUTERED 5/15/1998ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA 2/5/1999URINALYSIS 2/5/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS 2/13/1999URINALYSIS 2/15/1999UR FORMULA CAT FOOD BEGUN1/25/00 STOPPED 2/27/1999URINALYSIS 4/8/1999URINALYSIS 4/9/1999ACEPROMAZINE 10 MG 4/9/1999CLAVAMOX DROPS 4/17/1999XRAY (LOOKING FOR BLOCKAGE??) 4/17/1999CYSTOCENTESIS 4/17/1999URINALYSIS 4/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 5/8/1999URINALYSIS 6/25/1999ANNUAL DRCP & LEUKEMIA 6/25/1999AMITRIPTYLINE 10 MG IN USE UNTIL 4/00 12/17/1999BAYTRIL 60 1/17/2000ORBAX 22.7 MG GREEN 2/11/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT 2/14/2000ZENIQUIN 50 MG 2/26/2000HEMALERT URINARY BLOOD DETECT Does this provide enough information for anyone to hazard an educated guess as to why she has this continuing problem? Kelly was on Amitriptyline (Prozac) from 6/99 to 4/00 when my sister gave up as it was no longer effective. She went to a holistic vet who recommended an herb but it didn’t have any effect. She can’t remember which herb was recommnded (several years ago). My sister is also interested in information about dosage for Buspar. I sent her to the web site that Gail posted (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html), and that site said to give 5 mg twice daily. However, her vet prescribed 5 mg daily in two doses and that is all the prescription is for (total of 5mg daily, not 10mg). Note: her vet also said that he is not familiar with this medication. Thanks for your help. MaryL
Response:
While we’re talking about anti-anxiety medications, does anyone have a suggestion for a cat that attacks when it realizes I’m leaving for work in the morning? One vet suggested buspar, but the last thing this cat needs is more confidence. He beats up on the other two as it is. I’ve tried Feliway and Rescue Remedy. Feliway did nothing, and the Rescue Remedy is hard to administer since he drinks water from a sink left running (so I can’t put it in his water bowl) and putting the drops into his mouth is a huge battle. I gave up on that. He’s been seen by four different vets and has had blood work done to rule out any abnormalities.
Response:
I wanted to add that there are several different anti-anxiety meds available to help stop a cat from spraying. You have to try and determine why your cat is spraying and decide what med may help the most. Sometimes it takes trial and error to find out what works. Good luck. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Buspar can be helpful in stopping a cat’s spraying behavior. Buspar gives a > cat that is feeling anxious more confidence. Another medication that can be > used is prozac. I also have a spraying cat. I contacted Dr. Nicholas > Dodman (a reknown animal behaviorist from Tuft’s) to help with my cat’s > problem. Dr. Dodman prescribed prozac for my cat rather than buspirone > because my cat was very territorial and did not need anymore confidence. > The prozac, along with other behavior modifications, really helped get my > cat’s spraying under control. > Dr. Dodman offers programs called PETFAX and VETFAX where he and his > associates will provide assistance with an animal’s behavioral problem. > Your sister may want to check this out. Here’s some info on Dr. Dodman: > http://www.tufts.edu/vet/facpages/dodman_n.html I found it extremely > worthwhile. > Good luck to your sister. I hope she can get her cat’s behavior under > control. I know from experience how difficult this can be. > Sue > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
Response:
I have one – he won’t touch it. He digs in the sink and howls if I turn off the water. I’d rather leave the water on and have him drink all he wants than try restricting his water access and have any kidney problems result from it. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Have you thought about getting a Drinkwell fountain and leaving the >filter out? Might work. >Laura
Response:
>While we’re talking about anti-anxiety >medications, does anyone have a >suggestion for a cat that attacks when it >realizes I’m leaving for work in the >morning?
Could you please give a detailed description of what happens (before, during and after)? Also, a detailed description of what happens when he beats up on the other cats? There may be a solution to this that won’t require medication. Megan "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu’s Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22
Response:
I have three cats and they all eat from the same bowl. They all eat dry food. I suppose I could probably slip troublemaker some wet food with rescue remedy in it, but I don’t know if he’d eat it, or if it would help. Are you particularly convinced that rescue remedy works? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Gotcha. What about mixing it into his food? >Laura >– >> I have one – he won’t touch it. He digs in the sink and howls if I turn off >the > water. I’d rather leave the water on and have him drink all he wants than >try > restricting his water access and have any kidney problems result from it.
Response:
I’ve posted the whole saga before, and I’ve consulted 4 different vets about it. Everyone says they’ve never seen a cat react this way, only dogs. He has separation anxiety. When I get ready to leave in the morning I have to walk backwards towards the door talking calmly to my cat or else he’ll throw himself at my heels biting and clawing. Sometimes I literally run out the door. I can tell when he’s going to do it because he starts creeping up on me like he would an animal he’s stalking for prey, then he tilts his head sideways preparing to bite. If he does manage to bite he’ll continue to do it until I can get away from him. There have been times I’ve had to run into the bathroom and shut the door, and I’ve had wounds that probably should have had stitches. He’s an indoor kitty with plenty of things to do indoors. It’s not safe for him to go outside because of the wildlife in the area we live. The biting started when he was about 1 year old, when I started working fulltime. I always come home during lunch to visit him, so I don’t think he’s that lonely. When this behaviour started he was the only cat in the household. I got a second cat to try to keep him company, but that one is scared to death of him. I don’t blame her. She’s not social towards cats, so usually just leaves him alone or runs from him. A year ago I got a third cat, not by choice – someone gave me a 3 week old kitten that was found on the railroad tracks. I bottle-raised that one and introduced it to the aggressive male when he was 6 months old. They are great buddies and play very rough together. I thought maybe rough play would curb his need to be aggressive with me, but it didn’t. All the cats in the household are fixed. Like I said in another post, he’s had blood work done to rule out any chemical abnormalities. He also attacks if he’s yelled at for doing something bad, or if I use a squirt bottle on him. Sometimes he gets mad even when I disappear into the shower. He isn’t very clingy to me when I’m home, but does like to sleep on the bed with me. None of the vets I’ve taken him to have had any answers. They all say they’ve never seen a cat like this, and that he’s obviously a smart one. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Could you please give a detailed description of what happens (before, >during and after)? Also, a detailed description of what happens when he >beats up on the other cats? There may be a solution to this that won’t >require medication. >While we’re talking about anti-anxiety >medications, does anyone have a >suggestion for a cat that attacks when it >realizes I’m leaving for work in the >morning?
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They all eat dry food. I don’t think I could mix it into dry food very easily without making a mess. I did try putting diluted rescue remedy in a spray bottle and misting it onto his bedding (suggested by someone in the newsgroups) but that didn’t seem to have any effect. Feeding wet food is not an option. One of the cats won’t eat any sort of wet food, and besides it makes the litterbox smell horribly. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Nope, I just got the impression that you were saying it had worked >for you. I’ve not had occasion to use it. However, if it does work, I >would think that it wouldn’t harm the other cats, so mixing it into >the food might be a simple thing to try. >Laura > I have three cats and they all eat from the same bowl. They all eat dry >food. I > suppose I could probably slip troublemaker some wet food with rescue remedy >in > it, but I don’t know if he’d eat it, or if it would help. Are you >particularly > convince
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I have a cat that also sprayed. He is neutered and has no medical problems. I tried Feliway and also an anti-depressant medication. Buspar was the one that helped him stop the spraying. It is definitely worth trying and can be used long term. Gail – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
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Buspar can be helpful in stopping a cat’s spraying behavior. Buspar gives a cat that is feeling anxious more confidence. Another medication that can be used is prozac. I also have a spraying cat. I contacted Dr. Nicholas Dodman (a reknown animal behaviorist from Tuft’s) to help with my cat’s problem. Dr. Dodman prescribed prozac for my cat rather than buspirone because my cat was very territorial and did not need anymore confidence. The prozac, along with other behavior modifications, really helped get my cat’s spraying under control. Dr. Dodman offers programs called PETFAX and VETFAX where he and his associates will provide assistance with an animal’s behavioral problem. Your sister may want to check this out. Here’s some info on Dr. Dodman: http://www.tufts.edu/vet/facpages/dodman_n.html I found it extremely worthwhile. Good luck to your sister. I hope she can get her cat’s behavior under control. I know from experience how difficult this can be. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug > sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me > and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is > extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" > care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to > her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a > prescription. I also located this site > (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but > I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. > Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all > spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also > has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an > animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old > male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all > ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what > makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a > behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any > other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now > literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of > her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she > removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find > a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 > different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also > took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has > tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral > modification. > My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of > you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so > that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this > medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we > would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned > "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the > liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice > that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going > to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway > diffuser," as she suggested. > I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives > 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to > be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these > are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost > anything for them. > Thanks, > MaryL
Response:
Are any of you familiar with Buspirone, an anxiety-reducing drug sometimes used to control spraying in cats? My sister just e-mailed me and asked me to question my vet about it (which I intend to do — he is extremely willing to discuss care over the phone, even "long-distance" care for my sister’s cats, 1200 miles away). She has already talked to her vet. He is not familiar with Buspirone but is willing to give her a prescription. I also located this site (http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/buspirone.html) on the Internet, but I would like to locate as much information for her as I can. Here’s some of the history: she has three indoor cats (all spayed/neutered). One female is approximately 8 years old. She also has a male and female (litter-mates) that she adopted as kittens from an animal shelter. They are not approximately 4 years old. The 4-year-old male is the problem. He is an absolutely wonderful cat in almost all ways — friendly, loving, playful, seems totally relaxed. That is what makes his problem with spraying so puzzling. This seems to be a behavioral problem, but he does not show behavioral problems in any other way. He gets lots of love and attention, but her house now literally reeks of cat urine. She is in the process of removing all of her carpet and padding, and she is scrubbing the floor underneath as she removes the carpet (a great deal of work!). She has been trying to find a solution for the last 3 years. Kelly (the cat) has been seen by 3 different veterinarians, and they have not found any problems. She also took him to a holistic veterinarian/behavioralist. Nothing she has tried has worked, including medication and attempts at behavioral modification. My sister truly loves this cat, and she is at her wits’ end. Can any of you suggest anything else? She read about Buspirone on the Internet, so that is the reason I am also specifically asking for information on this medication. The web site I checked indicated no side effects, but we would like to verify this. Someone on this newsgroup also mentioned "Electrical Feliway." My sister would be interested (she has tried the liquid-spray version of Feliway, with little or no result). I notice that Claire has responded to my request about a source, and I am going to try to follow up on her information (including a search for "Feliway diffuser," as she suggested. I apologize for this long, rather rambling message. My sister lives 1200 miles away, so I am not as clear on some details as I would like to be. We will be grateful for any help you can give us. As I said, these are truly loved cats; and my sister would be willing to do almost anything for them. Thanks, MaryL
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