| Cat Peeing |
| Dear Deborah: My cat has developed a disturbing habit. I was at home most days until recently, but now I've started a new business with my husband and as a result I'm out of the house for 8 to 11 hours at a time. When she is alone that long, she pees on the carpet. Cat Lover in Maple Ridge |
| Dear Cat
Lover: Your cat likes having you around and is trying to get
your attention when you leave for long spells. Unfortunately, your letter doesn't say whether your cat is an outdoor cat. If she is and access outside is denied to her when you are gone, then a cat door will probably solve your problem. Make sure you show her how to use it and reward her at the time with special treats or cat nip rubbed around the cat door. But if you cat has a cat door, or is an indoor cat expected to use a litter box, your problem will be more difficult to solve. Try to time your schedule and your husband's so the shift from constant company to no company is gradual. Make sure you set up a regular mealtime (or two) that you can stick with. Always feed her on time. Downplay departures and arrivals as much as possible. Keep your cat's favourite routines. If she loves to read a book with you or sit beside the tub, make sure you make an effort to include her. As far as the carpet goes, it's probably a write-off if she's targeting the same area each time. If not, clean the spots with a mix of vinegar and water and avoid making a huge fuss. If you can set up the room in advance so that her urine is collected on rags or paper towel, do so. Then take the urine-scented rags to the place she is suppose to use. |
| For more tips, get Deborah's
book, Good Dog! from your local book store. Deborah also writes for the Family Dog Magazine. Available at Save-On Foods, London Drugs, and in Free boxes everywhere. Send your pet questions to: Fax 604- 732-2088 |