While I'd agree that cats aren't responsible for some of the bull#$%# that
humans participate in, they do seek revenge, and they definitely DO have
personalities that have been shaped by their previous experiences mixed with
the genetics of their basic personality. The permutations of those
parameters suggest that there are many possibilities for errant behaviour.
Cats can express themselves in only limited ways, so claws, noise & bodily
fluids are usually the options. To correct this, (and before you ask, I have
corrected 2 adult cats of my own - adopted at full grown) you need to think
just like a cat, and only then will you understand that no amount of Dr
Phil's "find out it's currency" will work with cats (although it does with
dogs!) - they are simply too free-willed to be shaped with treats,
affection/withdrawal.

The main point here, is that in bringing what is obviously a free-ranging,
semi-wild cat indoors, you are pushing it uphill thinking that it will
respond in the desired human way. Just put yourself in the converse
situation - how hard would it be for you if someone said "stop using the
toilet, I want you to pee in the garden, especially when other animals are
around - because that signifies that you are the boss here"???

It's going to take time & persistance. The absolute ideal situation
considering no medical problems I would suggest, is building a run outside
(if poss) to ease the transition. This way, it will begin to understand that
it doesn't get punished for this behaviour outside, but does inside. It's
all about understanding and catering to its natural instincts, and giving
the cat hints on what's acceptable, where. And you definitely need to keep
up on the negative reinforcement (water pistol & loud noise, preferably
human). The cat will respond slowly, but don't expect miracles overnight.


"Mary" wrote in message
m...

"jimmy the LD" wrote in message

...
Am I to understand that you have not taken him
to the vet??


No:
You are to understand that Rutherford has been to the vet, and he checks
out.
I have tried EVERY suggestion I have been given (with the exception of
the
Prozac) and nothing has worked.

I am considering the cat box thing, but I wonder if he's going to think
that
since I moved the toilet from where it is currently located (in the
master
bathroom shower) to the living room that it's perfectly okay to continue
to
**** where he likes - especially since I will have catered to him by
making
it easier to go on the carpet by moving the box.


Forgive the pun, but this is not a ****ing contest. It isn't "Rutherford
will win or Jimmy will win." Move the box and see what happens.
I think he has either an undiagnosed medical problem or
a behavioral problem caused by something else you are
doing. Cats that do this either have medical issues OR
they are trying to tell you something is making them
very uncomfortable. There is no mystery to it, and
there is no "being an asshole" about it. Cats don't think
like people.





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