View Single Post
  #9  
Old March 23rd 14, 11:27 PM posted to rec.pets.cats.health+behav
John Doe
external usenet poster
 
Posts: 381
Default How to stop too many cats/kittens from driving you insane...

I haven't used the method since the Humane Society took the
kittens. But I definitely would consider using it in another
situation, like when you have an overly aggressive (or perhaps
overly playful) cat that is terrorizing others. Immediately start
clipping its claws. But also consider adding a tail extender as
described. Never know, it might just need to get some exercise or
let off steam.

Always keep in mind the dynamics of captivity. Pursuing cats is a
bad idea because they have no place to run. Outside they would run
away. Must give them space. Correction without letting them know
it's you is best. I think the space thing should also be
considered to some extent to governing interaction between cats.



This is mainly for kittens. But my male cat enjoys chasing his
tail, so it might work well for him too. Currently, he needs the
exercise.

I found a way to give my three kittens all the indoor exercise
they can handle. Basically, it's just extending their tail 6 or
8 inches with a 1/4 inch thick nylon cord, using packaging tape.
It's not very nice, but I'd rather feel a little guilty than
feel angry at them. I know some people have injured and even
killed their pets out of anger. And these kittens (in addition
to three adult cats) have been driving me crazyer.

To my pleasant surprise... These kittens appear to enjoy their
tail extension. One reason is because it helps a lot with
chasing their own tail. Serious tail chasing action. Sometimes
one chases another while it is being chased. Sometimes they play
with their own. I haven't seen a circle chase yet (with all
three kittens). They stop the action simply by being at rest,
and the other cats lose interest. The most active kitten became
so wild the first time, I removed the thing early so it wouldn't
go crazy. But it's just that way, it's very active. Since then,
it's done great.

So... When they start getting into stuff that they're not
supposed to (like all the time), I just whip out the tail
extenders and that's all they do until their next nap. If they
lose interest, I will post saying so.

I'm happy to hear about any potential injury. Most useful would
be personal experience. Apparently getting caught on something
is it, that's why I'm using a breakaway device. And this will
happen only under human supervision.