Cat STILL peeing – Please help!!
Question:
> Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been > reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into the > house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even developing > a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, > please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with many > cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so long > before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. > All the best, > Adam
Once again I hope we all (new posters esp.) notice this is TROLLING. Karen
Response:
Sorry for my ignorance, but I’m new in this NG and I don’t understand how I would recognize this post as "trolling". Pls enlighten. Dick
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been > reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into the > house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even developing > a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, > please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with many > cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so long > before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. > All the best, > Adam > Once again I hope we all (new posters esp.) notice this is TROLLING. > Karen
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Sorry for my ignorance, but I’m new in this NG and I don’t understand how I > would recognize this post as "trolling". Pls enlighten. > Dick >> Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been >> reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into > the >> house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even > developing >> a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, >> please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with > many >> cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so > long >> before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. >> All the best, >> Adam > Once again I hope we all (new posters esp.) notice this is TROLLING. > Karen
Because he is handing out terribly dangerous information in his trolling. Usually I ignore them, or try too, but this guy is dangerous. Karen
Response:
Celeste, yes they are scooped twice a day, and with scoopable litter. She doesn’t do this all the time either, just occasionally. Lisa – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa, > You mentioned you have 7 litter boxes. My question is do you clean > them all twice a day & use scoopable litter. I find the scoopable the > best because it doesn’t hold odors. I have had 2 cats in my life that > absolutely refused to use the litter box until I cleaned it for them. > I currently have 3 cats who use 1 box and I clean it twice a day. If > I’m not home to do it I make arrangements for family to stop in and > take care of the box for me. If I don’t do this the one pees outside > the box. He insist it be cleaned and will wait for me to clean it so > he can go. I had another cat years ago that would deliberately let me > surprises right inside the front door as a reminder that I didn’t > clean his box. > Celeste
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> If you don’t have an animal behaviorist in your area, you could consult with > Dr. Nicholas Dodman, one of the best. He’s at Tuft’s in Boston but he > offers a consulting service called PETFAX. You can consult via telephone, > e-mail, fax, snail mail. I consulted with Dr. Dodman about my cat that > sprays and Dr. Dodman and his associates were very helpful. We have been > able to get the problem under control. Here’s some info about Dr. Dodman > with a link to info about PETFAX > http://www.tufts.edu/vet/faculty/facpages/dodman_n.html > Sue > > Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of > > success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask > your > > vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near > > Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat > > dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and > > I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got > > much better. > > Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at > > http://www.ejepo.com/burel) > > > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong > places > > > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to > check > > > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and > all > > > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > > > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by > her > > > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > > > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > > > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > > > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the > vet > > > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have > any > > > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat > that > > > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know > that > > > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the > stress > > > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > > > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t > want > to > > > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into the house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even developing a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with many cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so long before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. All the best, Adam
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
Lisa, You mentioned you have 7 litter boxes. My question is do you clean them all twice a day & use scoopable litter. I find the scoopable the best because it doesn’t hold odors. I have had 2 cats in my life that absolutely refused to use the litter box until I cleaned it for them. I currently have 3 cats who use 1 box and I clean it twice a day. If I’m not home to do it I make arrangements for family to stop in and take care of the box for me. If I don’t do this the one pees outside the box. He insist it be cleaned and will wait for me to clean it so he can go. I had another cat years ago that would deliberately let me surprises right inside the front door as a reminder that I didn’t clean his box. Celeste – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > If you don’t have an animal behaviorist in your area, you could consult with > Dr. Nicholas Dodman, one of the best. He’s at Tuft’s in Boston but he > offers a consulting service called PETFAX. You can consult via telephone, > e-mail, fax, snail mail. I consulted with Dr. Dodman about my cat that > sprays and Dr. Dodman and his associates were very helpful. We have been > able to get the problem under control. Here’s some info about Dr. Dodman > with a link to info about PETFAX > http://www.tufts.edu/vet/faculty/facpages/dodman_n.html > Sue > Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of > success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask > your > vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near > Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat > dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and > I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got > much better. > Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at > http://www.ejepo.com/burel) > > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong > places > > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to > check > > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and > all > > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by > her > > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the > vet > > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have > any > > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat > that > > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know > that > > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the > stress > > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t > want > to > > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
I did not have good success with valium when I was trying to get my cat to stop spraying. You are right…valium should be for short periods of use only. There are other anti-anxiety meds used more often than valium. What worked with my cat was prozac. There is also clomipramine which is also very effective. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa, > Assuming the urination is truly an anxiety issue, I have had excellent > success with valium (or its generic). It tends to be more effective > than some of the other anti-anxiety agents such as Buspar. Valium is > NOT an appropriate drug for long term use. It would be appropriate, > if at all, only for short term relief while other less-drugged-out > measures are put into place. Others have posted some suggestions > along that line: behaviorist, ensuring adequate litter boxes (I know > you said 7 for 6 cats), looking at how to reduce the ongoing stress. > If you decide to go this route, I can tell you that the first two days > of medication are unpleasant. The cat acts drunk, which isn’t funny. > Once the cat has become used to the medicine, the cat will act normal > or even a little mellow. The longest I ever used valium on a cat was > for one week or less. So I’m stressing again this is a short term > measure meant to buy everybody some time. > I have read veterinary research articles about the efficacy of valium > for anxiety related urination. Unfortunately, I don’t have the > articles any more, so I can’t cite them. I know my vet agrees valium > can be highly effective for short term relief, but it is never my > vet’s preferred choice of treatment. Why? One, the potential for the > human-owner to personally abuse the medicine. Because Buspar is not > addictive and does not create euphoria, it isn’t abused by the > human-owners the way valium might be. Two, the possibility the owner > will treat this as an easy, inexpensive fix and not work towards a > more appropriate solution. > Your vet may not even be willing to prescribe the drug. It’s worth > asking though if you are interested. I suspect what your vet will say > is increase the Buspar.
Response:
> I did not have good success with valium when I was trying to get my cat to > stop spraying. You are right…valium should be for short periods of use > only. There are other anti-anxiety meds used more often than valium. What > worked with my cat was prozac. There is also clomipramine which is also > very effective. > Sue
Sue, Thank you for adding suggestions. I’m always hesitant to make the valium suggestion, but because BuSpar offered some relief, I decided to go ahead and make it. Your post also points out what is ultimately obvious, no two cats are alike and no two cats will respond the same to a certain medicine. The few times I went the valium route, I had 100% success and meanwhile effectively resolved the underlying problem. Susan
Response:
We have 6 cats, and 7 boxes.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa, > How many cats do you have? Do you have the same number of litter boxes that > you do cats? > Sharon
Response:
Lisa, Assuming the urination is truly an anxiety issue, I have had excellent success with valium (or its generic). It tends to be more effective than some of the other anti-anxiety agents such as Buspar. Valium is NOT an appropriate drug for long term use. It would be appropriate, if at all, only for short term relief while other less-drugged-out measures are put into place. Others have posted some suggestions along that line: behaviorist, ensuring adequate litter boxes (I know you said 7 for 6 cats), looking at how to reduce the ongoing stress. If you decide to go this route, I can tell you that the first two days of medication are unpleasant. The cat acts drunk, which isn’t funny. Once the cat has become used to the medicine, the cat will act normal or even a little mellow. The longest I ever used valium on a cat was for one week or less. So I’m stressing again this is a short term measure meant to buy everybody some time. I have read veterinary research articles about the efficacy of valium for anxiety related urination. Unfortunately, I don’t have the articles any more, so I can’t cite them. I know my vet agrees valium can be highly effective for short term relief, but it is never my vet’s preferred choice of treatment. Why? One, the potential for the human-owner to personally abuse the medicine. Because Buspar is not addictive and does not create euphoria, it isn’t abused by the human-owners the way valium might be. Two, the possibility the owner will treat this as an easy, inexpensive fix and not work towards a more appropriate solution. Your vet may not even be willing to prescribe the drug. It’s worth asking though if you are interested. I suspect what your vet will say is increase the Buspar.
Response:
Lisa, How many cats do you have? Do you have the same number of litter boxes that you do cats? Sharon
Response:
Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask your vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got much better. Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at http://www.ejepo.com/burel)
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
Lisa: If the Feliway doesn’t work, there are other medications the vet can try (aside from Buspar). I would try them. Also, I would probably seek a second opinion at that point. Bring all of your cat’s records with you. Gail – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
It’s possible that you may have to incease the Buspar or try another anti-anxiety medication. Sometimes a med may work for a while and then loose it’s effectiveness. Also, give the feliway a try. Good luck! Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
If you don’t have an animal behaviorist in your area, you could consult with Dr. Nicholas Dodman, one of the best. He’s at Tuft’s in Boston but he offers a consulting service called PETFAX. You can consult via telephone, e-mail, fax, snail mail. I consulted with Dr. Dodman about my cat that sprays and Dr. Dodman and his associates were very helpful. We have been able to get the problem under control. Here’s some info about Dr. Dodman with a link to info about PETFAX http://www.tufts.edu/vet/faculty/facpages/dodman_n.html Sue – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of > success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask your > vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near > Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat > dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and > I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got > much better. > Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at > http://www.ejepo.com/burel) > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong > places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to > check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have > any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want > to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
> Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been > reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into the > house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even developing > a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, > please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with many > cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so long > before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. > All the best, > Adam
Once again I hope we all (new posters esp.) notice this is TROLLING. Karen
Response:
Sorry for my ignorance, but I’m new in this NG and I don’t understand how I would recognize this post as "trolling". Pls enlighten. Dick
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been > reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into the > house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even developing > a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, > please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with many > cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so long > before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. > All the best, > Adam > Once again I hope we all (new posters esp.) notice this is TROLLING. > Karen
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Sorry for my ignorance, but I’m new in this NG and I don’t understand how I > would recognize this post as "trolling". Pls enlighten. > Dick >> Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been >> reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into > the >> house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even > developing >> a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, >> please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with > many >> cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so > long >> before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. >> All the best, >> Adam > Once again I hope we all (new posters esp.) notice this is TROLLING. > Karen
Because he is handing out terribly dangerous information in his trolling. Usually I ignore them, or try too, but this guy is dangerous. Karen
Response:
Celeste, yes they are scooped twice a day, and with scoopable litter. She doesn’t do this all the time either, just occasionally. Lisa – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa, > You mentioned you have 7 litter boxes. My question is do you clean > them all twice a day & use scoopable litter. I find the scoopable the > best because it doesn’t hold odors. I have had 2 cats in my life that > absolutely refused to use the litter box until I cleaned it for them. > I currently have 3 cats who use 1 box and I clean it twice a day. If > I’m not home to do it I make arrangements for family to stop in and > take care of the box for me. If I don’t do this the one pees outside > the box. He insist it be cleaned and will wait for me to clean it so > he can go. I had another cat years ago that would deliberately let me > surprises right inside the front door as a reminder that I didn’t > clean his box. > Celeste
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> If you don’t have an animal behaviorist in your area, you could consult with > Dr. Nicholas Dodman, one of the best. He’s at Tuft’s in Boston but he > offers a consulting service called PETFAX. You can consult via telephone, > e-mail, fax, snail mail. I consulted with Dr. Dodman about my cat that > sprays and Dr. Dodman and his associates were very helpful. We have been > able to get the problem under control. Here’s some info about Dr. Dodman > with a link to info about PETFAX > http://www.tufts.edu/vet/faculty/facpages/dodman_n.html > Sue > > Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of > > success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask > your > > vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near > > Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat > > dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and > > I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got > > much better. > > Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at > > http://www.ejepo.com/burel) > > > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong > places > > > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to > check > > > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and > all > > > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > > > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by > her > > > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > > > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > > > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > > > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the > vet > > > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have > any > > > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat > that > > > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know > that > > > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the > stress > > > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > > > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t > want > to > > > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into the house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even developing a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with many cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so long before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. All the best, Adam
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
Lisa, You mentioned you have 7 litter boxes. My question is do you clean them all twice a day & use scoopable litter. I find the scoopable the best because it doesn’t hold odors. I have had 2 cats in my life that absolutely refused to use the litter box until I cleaned it for them. I currently have 3 cats who use 1 box and I clean it twice a day. If I’m not home to do it I make arrangements for family to stop in and take care of the box for me. If I don’t do this the one pees outside the box. He insist it be cleaned and will wait for me to clean it so he can go. I had another cat years ago that would deliberately let me surprises right inside the front door as a reminder that I didn’t clean his box. Celeste – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > If you don’t have an animal behaviorist in your area, you could consult with > Dr. Nicholas Dodman, one of the best. He’s at Tuft’s in Boston but he > offers a consulting service called PETFAX. You can consult via telephone, > e-mail, fax, snail mail. I consulted with Dr. Dodman about my cat that > sprays and Dr. Dodman and his associates were very helpful. We have been > able to get the problem under control. Here’s some info about Dr. Dodman > with a link to info about PETFAX > http://www.tufts.edu/vet/faculty/facpages/dodman_n.html > Sue > Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of > success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask > your > vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near > Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat > dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and > I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got > much better. > Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at > http://www.ejepo.com/burel) > > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong > places > > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to > check > > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and > all > > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by > her > > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the > vet > > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have > any > > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat > that > > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know > that > > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the > stress > > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t > want > to > > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
I did not have good success with valium when I was trying to get my cat to stop spraying. You are right…valium should be for short periods of use only. There are other anti-anxiety meds used more often than valium. What worked with my cat was prozac. There is also clomipramine which is also very effective. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa, > Assuming the urination is truly an anxiety issue, I have had excellent > success with valium (or its generic). It tends to be more effective > than some of the other anti-anxiety agents such as Buspar. Valium is > NOT an appropriate drug for long term use. It would be appropriate, > if at all, only for short term relief while other less-drugged-out > measures are put into place. Others have posted some suggestions > along that line: behaviorist, ensuring adequate litter boxes (I know > you said 7 for 6 cats), looking at how to reduce the ongoing stress. > If you decide to go this route, I can tell you that the first two days > of medication are unpleasant. The cat acts drunk, which isn’t funny. > Once the cat has become used to the medicine, the cat will act normal > or even a little mellow. The longest I ever used valium on a cat was > for one week or less. So I’m stressing again this is a short term > measure meant to buy everybody some time. > I have read veterinary research articles about the efficacy of valium > for anxiety related urination. Unfortunately, I don’t have the > articles any more, so I can’t cite them. I know my vet agrees valium > can be highly effective for short term relief, but it is never my > vet’s preferred choice of treatment. Why? One, the potential for the > human-owner to personally abuse the medicine. Because Buspar is not > addictive and does not create euphoria, it isn’t abused by the > human-owners the way valium might be. Two, the possibility the owner > will treat this as an easy, inexpensive fix and not work towards a > more appropriate solution. > Your vet may not even be willing to prescribe the drug. It’s worth > asking though if you are interested. I suspect what your vet will say > is increase the Buspar.
Response:
> I did not have good success with valium when I was trying to get my cat to > stop spraying. You are right…valium should be for short periods of use > only. There are other anti-anxiety meds used more often than valium. What > worked with my cat was prozac. There is also clomipramine which is also > very effective. > Sue
Sue, Thank you for adding suggestions. I’m always hesitant to make the valium suggestion, but because BuSpar offered some relief, I decided to go ahead and make it. Your post also points out what is ultimately obvious, no two cats are alike and no two cats will respond the same to a certain medicine. The few times I went the valium route, I had 100% success and meanwhile effectively resolved the underlying problem. Susan
Response:
We have 6 cats, and 7 boxes.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa, > How many cats do you have? Do you have the same number of litter boxes that > you do cats? > Sharon
Response:
Lisa, Assuming the urination is truly an anxiety issue, I have had excellent success with valium (or its generic). It tends to be more effective than some of the other anti-anxiety agents such as Buspar. Valium is NOT an appropriate drug for long term use. It would be appropriate, if at all, only for short term relief while other less-drugged-out measures are put into place. Others have posted some suggestions along that line: behaviorist, ensuring adequate litter boxes (I know you said 7 for 6 cats), looking at how to reduce the ongoing stress. If you decide to go this route, I can tell you that the first two days of medication are unpleasant. The cat acts drunk, which isn’t funny. Once the cat has become used to the medicine, the cat will act normal or even a little mellow. The longest I ever used valium on a cat was for one week or less. So I’m stressing again this is a short term measure meant to buy everybody some time. I have read veterinary research articles about the efficacy of valium for anxiety related urination. Unfortunately, I don’t have the articles any more, so I can’t cite them. I know my vet agrees valium can be highly effective for short term relief, but it is never my vet’s preferred choice of treatment. Why? One, the potential for the human-owner to personally abuse the medicine. Because Buspar is not addictive and does not create euphoria, it isn’t abused by the human-owners the way valium might be. Two, the possibility the owner will treat this as an easy, inexpensive fix and not work towards a more appropriate solution. Your vet may not even be willing to prescribe the drug. It’s worth asking though if you are interested. I suspect what your vet will say is increase the Buspar.
Response:
Lisa, How many cats do you have? Do you have the same number of litter boxes that you do cats? Sharon
Response:
Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask your vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got much better. Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at http://www.ejepo.com/burel)
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
Lisa: If the Feliway doesn’t work, there are other medications the vet can try (aside from Buspar). I would try them. Also, I would probably seek a second opinion at that point. Bring all of your cat’s records with you. Gail – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
It’s possible that you may have to incease the Buspar or try another anti-anxiety medication. Sometimes a med may work for a while and then loose it’s effectiveness. Also, give the feliway a try. Good luck! Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
If you don’t have an animal behaviorist in your area, you could consult with Dr. Nicholas Dodman, one of the best. He’s at Tuft’s in Boston but he offers a consulting service called PETFAX. You can consult via telephone, e-mail, fax, snail mail. I consulted with Dr. Dodman about my cat that sprays and Dr. Dodman and his associates were very helpful. We have been able to get the problem under control. Here’s some info about Dr. Dodman with a link to info about PETFAX http://www.tufts.edu/vet/faculty/facpages/dodman_n.html Sue – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of > success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask your > vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near > Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat > dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and > I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got > much better. > Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at > http://www.ejepo.com/burel) > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong > places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to > check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have > any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want > to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
> Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been > reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into the > house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even developing > a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, > please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with many > cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so long > before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. > All the best, > Adam
Once again I hope we all (new posters esp.) notice this is TROLLING. Karen
Response:
Sorry for my ignorance, but I’m new in this NG and I don’t understand how I would recognize this post as "trolling". Pls enlighten. Dick
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been > reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into the > house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even developing > a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, > please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with many > cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so long > before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. > All the best, > Adam > Once again I hope we all (new posters esp.) notice this is TROLLING. > Karen
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Sorry for my ignorance, but I’m new in this NG and I don’t understand how I > would recognize this post as "trolling". Pls enlighten. > Dick >> Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been >> reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into > the >> house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even > developing >> a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, >> please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with > many >> cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so > long >> before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. >> All the best, >> Adam > Once again I hope we all (new posters esp.) notice this is TROLLING. > Karen
Because he is handing out terribly dangerous information in his trolling. Usually I ignore them, or try too, but this guy is dangerous. Karen
Response:
Celeste, yes they are scooped twice a day, and with scoopable litter. She doesn’t do this all the time either, just occasionally. Lisa – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa, > You mentioned you have 7 litter boxes. My question is do you clean > them all twice a day & use scoopable litter. I find the scoopable the > best because it doesn’t hold odors. I have had 2 cats in my life that > absolutely refused to use the litter box until I cleaned it for them. > I currently have 3 cats who use 1 box and I clean it twice a day. If > I’m not home to do it I make arrangements for family to stop in and > take care of the box for me. If I don’t do this the one pees outside > the box. He insist it be cleaned and will wait for me to clean it so > he can go. I had another cat years ago that would deliberately let me > surprises right inside the front door as a reminder that I didn’t > clean his box. > Celeste
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> If you don’t have an animal behaviorist in your area, you could consult with > Dr. Nicholas Dodman, one of the best. He’s at Tuft’s in Boston but he > offers a consulting service called PETFAX. You can consult via telephone, > e-mail, fax, snail mail. I consulted with Dr. Dodman about my cat that > sprays and Dr. Dodman and his associates were very helpful. We have been > able to get the problem under control. Here’s some info about Dr. Dodman > with a link to info about PETFAX > http://www.tufts.edu/vet/faculty/facpages/dodman_n.html > Sue > > Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of > > success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask > your > > vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near > > Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat > > dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and > > I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got > > much better. > > Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at > > http://www.ejepo.com/burel) > > > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong > places > > > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to > check > > > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and > all > > > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > > > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by > her > > > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > > > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > > > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > > > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the > vet > > > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have > any > > > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat > that > > > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know > that > > > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the > stress > > > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > > > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t > want > to > > > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
Despite all the outcry against declawing cats, one benefit that has been reported numerous times is that declawed cats settle much better into the house routine, including using the litter box properly, and even developing a better bond with their owners. If you cat has not been declawed yet, please seriously consider it, because I know from my experience with many cats that you will be able to stand her current behaviour for only so long before you begin entertaining more drastic measures. All the best, Adam
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
Lisa, You mentioned you have 7 litter boxes. My question is do you clean them all twice a day & use scoopable litter. I find the scoopable the best because it doesn’t hold odors. I have had 2 cats in my life that absolutely refused to use the litter box until I cleaned it for them. I currently have 3 cats who use 1 box and I clean it twice a day. If I’m not home to do it I make arrangements for family to stop in and take care of the box for me. If I don’t do this the one pees outside the box. He insist it be cleaned and will wait for me to clean it so he can go. I had another cat years ago that would deliberately let me surprises right inside the front door as a reminder that I didn’t clean his box. Celeste – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > If you don’t have an animal behaviorist in your area, you could consult with > Dr. Nicholas Dodman, one of the best. He’s at Tuft’s in Boston but he > offers a consulting service called PETFAX. You can consult via telephone, > e-mail, fax, snail mail. I consulted with Dr. Dodman about my cat that > sprays and Dr. Dodman and his associates were very helpful. We have been > able to get the problem under control. Here’s some info about Dr. Dodman > with a link to info about PETFAX > http://www.tufts.edu/vet/faculty/facpages/dodman_n.html > Sue > Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of > success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask > your > vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near > Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat > dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and > I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got > much better. > Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at > http://www.ejepo.com/burel) > > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong > places > > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to > check > > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and > all > > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by > her > > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the > vet > > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have > any > > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat > that > > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know > that > > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the > stress > > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t > want > to > > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
I did not have good success with valium when I was trying to get my cat to stop spraying. You are right…valium should be for short periods of use only. There are other anti-anxiety meds used more often than valium. What worked with my cat was prozac. There is also clomipramine which is also very effective. Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa, > Assuming the urination is truly an anxiety issue, I have had excellent > success with valium (or its generic). It tends to be more effective > than some of the other anti-anxiety agents such as Buspar. Valium is > NOT an appropriate drug for long term use. It would be appropriate, > if at all, only for short term relief while other less-drugged-out > measures are put into place. Others have posted some suggestions > along that line: behaviorist, ensuring adequate litter boxes (I know > you said 7 for 6 cats), looking at how to reduce the ongoing stress. > If you decide to go this route, I can tell you that the first two days > of medication are unpleasant. The cat acts drunk, which isn’t funny. > Once the cat has become used to the medicine, the cat will act normal > or even a little mellow. The longest I ever used valium on a cat was > for one week or less. So I’m stressing again this is a short term > measure meant to buy everybody some time. > I have read veterinary research articles about the efficacy of valium > for anxiety related urination. Unfortunately, I don’t have the > articles any more, so I can’t cite them. I know my vet agrees valium > can be highly effective for short term relief, but it is never my > vet’s preferred choice of treatment. Why? One, the potential for the > human-owner to personally abuse the medicine. Because Buspar is not > addictive and does not create euphoria, it isn’t abused by the > human-owners the way valium might be. Two, the possibility the owner > will treat this as an easy, inexpensive fix and not work towards a > more appropriate solution. > Your vet may not even be willing to prescribe the drug. It’s worth > asking though if you are interested. I suspect what your vet will say > is increase the Buspar.
Response:
> I did not have good success with valium when I was trying to get my cat to > stop spraying. You are right…valium should be for short periods of use > only. There are other anti-anxiety meds used more often than valium. What > worked with my cat was prozac. There is also clomipramine which is also > very effective. > Sue
Sue, Thank you for adding suggestions. I’m always hesitant to make the valium suggestion, but because BuSpar offered some relief, I decided to go ahead and make it. Your post also points out what is ultimately obvious, no two cats are alike and no two cats will respond the same to a certain medicine. The few times I went the valium route, I had 100% success and meanwhile effectively resolved the underlying problem. Susan
Response:
We have 6 cats, and 7 boxes.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa, > How many cats do you have? Do you have the same number of litter boxes that > you do cats? > Sharon
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Lisa, Assuming the urination is truly an anxiety issue, I have had excellent success with valium (or its generic). It tends to be more effective than some of the other anti-anxiety agents such as Buspar. Valium is NOT an appropriate drug for long term use. It would be appropriate, if at all, only for short term relief while other less-drugged-out measures are put into place. Others have posted some suggestions along that line: behaviorist, ensuring adequate litter boxes (I know you said 7 for 6 cats), looking at how to reduce the ongoing stress. If you decide to go this route, I can tell you that the first two days of medication are unpleasant. The cat acts drunk, which isn’t funny. Once the cat has become used to the medicine, the cat will act normal or even a little mellow. The longest I ever used valium on a cat was for one week or less. So I’m stressing again this is a short term measure meant to buy everybody some time. I have read veterinary research articles about the efficacy of valium for anxiety related urination. Unfortunately, I don’t have the articles any more, so I can’t cite them. I know my vet agrees valium can be highly effective for short term relief, but it is never my vet’s preferred choice of treatment. Why? One, the potential for the human-owner to personally abuse the medicine. Because Buspar is not addictive and does not create euphoria, it isn’t abused by the human-owners the way valium might be. Two, the possibility the owner will treat this as an easy, inexpensive fix and not work towards a more appropriate solution. Your vet may not even be willing to prescribe the drug. It’s worth asking though if you are interested. I suspect what your vet will say is increase the Buspar.
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Lisa, How many cats do you have? Do you have the same number of litter boxes that you do cats? Sharon
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Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask your vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got much better. Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at http://www.ejepo.com/burel)
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
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A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
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Lisa: If the Feliway doesn’t work, there are other medications the vet can try (aside from Buspar). I would try them. Also, I would probably seek a second opinion at that point. Bring all of your cat’s records with you. Gail – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
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It’s possible that you may have to incease the Buspar or try another anti-anxiety medication. Sometimes a med may work for a while and then loose it’s effectiveness. Also, give the feliway a try. Good luck! Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
Response:
If you don’t have an animal behaviorist in your area, you could consult with Dr. Nicholas Dodman, one of the best. He’s at Tuft’s in Boston but he offers a consulting service called PETFAX. You can consult via telephone, e-mail, fax, snail mail. I consulted with Dr. Dodman about my cat that sprays and Dr. Dodman and his associates were very helpful. We have been able to get the problem under control. Here’s some info about Dr. Dodman with a link to info about PETFAX http://www.tufts.edu/vet/faculty/facpages/dodman_n.html Sue – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lisa — we have had our share of behavior problems and I had a lot of > success with using a cat behaviorist. You might give that a try — ask your > vet or their office if they can recommend anyone. If you’re near > Albuquerque, I can recommend mine. Once the behaviorist explained the cat > dynamics going on (it turned out I was reading one of the cats wrong and > I’ve had cats all my life) I tried her suggestions and amazingly all got > much better. > Christine B. (meowmie to Omar, Midnight, Shetra & Oreo; pix at > http://www.ejepo.com/burel) > A while ago I posted about my cat, who was urinating in all the wrong > places > (including up by her food). Many of you gave me great suggestions to > check > for, including crystals and stones. We did have her checked out, and all > came back negative. The vet determined (and we agreed) that it is most > likely behavioral, since she’s doing it not only on the floor, but by her > food. She was put on 5mg of BuSpar a day, and it had been going fine. > However, this week she has gone twice on the floor and once by the food. > It’s like the medicine only "scared" her into not doing it for a while > (she’s been on it for almost 2 months). The only other suggestion the vet > had was feliway, which we are going to pick up today. Does anyone have > any > other ideas? I love her dearly, but I have already lived with a cat that > did this for 12 years, and I honestly can’t do it again. I also know that > she’d probably be fine in a single cat household (I think it’s the stress > from the other cats that is doing this), but since I can’t promise it, I > can’t see finding her a home with someone either, and I really don’t want > to > have to have her put down. Please help! Thanks. Lisa Stormont
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