Author Topic: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...  (Read 8247 times)

Offline Gill (sneakiefeline)

  • Rainbow Bridge/Rescue/Moderating Staff
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 73567
  • Misa at 4yrs old and new with me
  • Slave to: Misa, Sasa, Franta Napoleon RIP, Ducha RIP and Lupin, Kocka RIP
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #38 on: January 14, 2009, 16:10:26 PM »
So very pleased that she has now got a forever home.

It does seem they were rather anxious to rehome her without considering everything they knew.

I think if you adopt again you should decide yourself which cat to have and do not let them change the cat on you again.

Its also best for you to meet the cat before deciding and handle it and consider whther its the right one.

I really wish some rescues would be more truthful, having been there myself.....mind you I may not have taken beautiful Sasa and she would still be sitting in that cage  :(

Offline Beth

  • Distinguished Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 576
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #37 on: January 14, 2009, 15:24:24 PM »
Really sorry things haven't worked out. :hug: I wish you luck with adopting again, after all it's not your fault they mismatched you and her.

I have just adopted a 4 month old kitten and i have an 18 month old son, so it can definitely work out. Ginny was in foster with older kids but hadn't had experience with toddlers, and yet she's been wonderful, if he's being too noisy/lively she hides under the bed but when he's being calm (or having a nap as you can see on the photo thread i posted today :Luv2:) she's much braver and will allow him to stroke her. She also ADORES playing with her toys which is a great way for the two of them to have positive interaction. :)

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #36 on: January 14, 2009, 13:22:10 PM »
Thank you all for your advice and help and understanding

Im sorry if I have been a bit of a nightmare babbling (as I do) Took suzy back today.. a few things happened last night the CoOrdinator for my local CP was in touch and told me that the vet who did Suzy's op also found her hard to handle (so finally I know Im not going mad)

Took suzy back today she was very friendly with her foster mum.. I went to say bye n quick love you miss you (as you do) and she gave me that look.. the one I have learnt to back off with lol.. so home I came..

Bit sad today but yes I think what I did was for the best.. and her story ends well as her foster mum will keep her as she has never had any problems which is perfect so a happy ending

And yes I should be able to adopt again (lets hope they are careful this time lol)

But thank you all.. I hope I havent upset anyone that thought I should keep her longer but I just did what I thought was best for us all

Thank you all again :thanks:

Offline Janeyk

  • Rescue & Rehoming/Moderating Staff
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 21875
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #35 on: January 13, 2009, 13:28:19 PM »
I agree, don't beat yourself up about it just think that you're doing the best for her x
Please consider the harder to home cats in rescue.

Offline JackSpratt

  • Moderating Staff
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 21871
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #34 on: January 13, 2009, 12:19:50 PM »
It's possible Suzy was jealous of your son. I'm so sorry things didn't work out. Hope Suzy finds her perfect home and you find a cat that is willing to share your affection.




Carrie, Jack,Toby and Parsley ~ Love and miss you all always.x

Offline sheryl

  • Super Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 3379
  • Im a Crazy CatWoman
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #33 on: January 13, 2009, 12:11:19 PM »
I have to agree with Dawn that maybe you should wait until you son is a bit older - I think a young childs tantrums can unsettle any cat and they will all react differently. 

"When I had the home visit all I asked for and wanted to welcome into my home was a kitten/cat that would never go for my son" - (cant remember how to insert quote) I dont think you can ever be guaranteed a kitten/cat that will never go for your son!

Sorry that you cant keep Suzy
The Purrs 2011 Cat Show!
Could your cat be a winner?  :wow:
http://www.purrsinourhearts.co.uk/index.php/topic,37101.0.html

Offline Dawn F

  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • ******
  • Posts: 18579
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #32 on: January 13, 2009, 10:45:55 AM »
wasn't meant to sound critical but if you are thinking they won't let you have another cat I was just thinking you wouldn't want to find yourself in this position again any time soon

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #31 on: January 13, 2009, 10:38:06 AM »
you have to do what is right for you, maybe you should wait for your son to get a bit older before thinking about it again

my son is used to cats we have always had them kittens to cats and he has been great.. its just suzy who isnt so great with him rather than other way round.. :(

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #30 on: January 13, 2009, 10:37:01 AM »
Really sorry to hear that  :hug: When I first read of the problems you were having with her I thought it sounded like she had been terribly mismatched but didn't post as didn't want to sound too negative  :hug

Im devastated I have to be honest.. she is such a loving cat but this really isnt the right place for her.. I think the foster mum assumed she was good with kids as her kids for a few hours a day were ok with her but a kid home all day kind of freaks suzy out..

Thank you and im sorry..

Offline Dawn F

  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • ******
  • Posts: 18579
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #29 on: January 13, 2009, 10:27:09 AM »
you have to do what is right for you, maybe you should wait for your son to get a bit older before thinking about it again

Offline Tiggy's Mum

  • Save a life draw/Commercial Assistant/Moderating Staff
  • Royal Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 9376
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #28 on: January 13, 2009, 10:26:40 AM »
Really sorry to hear that  :hug: When I first read of the problems you were having with her I thought it sounded like she had been terribly mismatched but didn't post as didn't want to sound too negative  :hug

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #27 on: January 13, 2009, 10:21:17 AM »
Morning all a suzy update

Well today my son has gone to nannies.. and guess what? suzy is the nicest most loving cat on planet..no swipes no biting since son has left house..
but this morning with son running round she went for me a few times..

I have rung the CP whom unfortunately I am returning suzy wednesday.. why? because in the last 2 days she has scratched and gone for my son on more than one occasion incuidng hissing etc.. the woman on the phone (suzy;s foster mum) said its very strange as she has kids and suzy was fine.. but my question is were her kids home all day like mine?

When I had the home visit all I asked for and wanted to welcome into my home was a kitten/cat that would never go for my son and I guess wihout checking suzy's temperment properly she is with me.. great today so far.. without son running round.. but when son is here she is jeckle n hyde I am really upset that I have to part with her but I really cant take the risk wih son being home until he is in nursery

My apologies .. I am upset .. and dont think CP will allow me to adopt again due to me not sticking it out for a full week.. im sorry im also a mum i cant take the risk..

so today I am upset confused and incredible sad that I have to part with suzy..and may not be able to adopt again

some may see it as I gave up too soon.. i see it as being a loving cat lover & mum and that if suzy is upset by kids running round this really isnt the place for her..

I just want to cry cos I have to part with her.. cos right now she is sat on my lap.. hasnt gone for me or anything

Offline Millys Mum

  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • ******
  • Posts: 11930
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #26 on: January 11, 2009, 18:59:48 PM »
A few days is too early to tell but it does sound like there has been some mismatched homing. Gill has a good point
Quote
I suspect that the rescue rehomed Suzie before they got to know her after being speyed and with all kittens gone, they want to free up their space so unless a cat has been with them for quite a while they do not know it very well when its circumstances change and some maybe do not understand that cats change along with their circumstances

Hormones do funny things to animals and humans, was she fostered in a home environment or cattery set up?

If you can keep your son away from her and see if she settles, it can take weeks which in an adult or teenage home isnt a problem as they understand whats happening but toddlers arent as easy are they!
Milly was a pyscho for a long time and still has her moments but we have learnt to read her moods, i would never trust her with children tho as they arent able to do the same mood reading


Offline Mark

  • Purrs Registered Cat Rescue
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 33326
  • Clapton
    • AnimalAid - Support Humane Charities
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #25 on: January 11, 2009, 17:31:31 PM »
When I first got Kylie, I put a big cardboard box in the living room with a jumper in the bottom. It was to give her somewhere she felt safe. I never bothered her when she was in the box and left her to come out as and when she was ready. The first night I kept seeing her little head popping up. When I looked at her, she hid again. I can't remember if it was the first or second night that I suddenly heard a thump next to me in bed and her wet nose nuzzling me (getting a bit choked up remembering  :shy: )
DO NOT BREED OR BUY WHILE SHELTER ANIMALS DIE

I believe I am not interested to know whether Vivisection produces results that are profitable to the human race or doesn't. To know that the results are profitable to the race would not remove my hostility to it.  Mark Twain

Offline Gill (sneakiefeline)

  • Rainbow Bridge/Rescue/Moderating Staff
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 73567
  • Misa at 4yrs old and new with me
  • Slave to: Misa, Sasa, Franta Napoleon RIP, Ducha RIP and Lupin, Kocka RIP
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #24 on: January 11, 2009, 13:47:58 PM »
I think keeping her in one room is a good idea so you control the sutuation. She should sleep well over 12 hours a day so she will not want or need to be active all the time. I would let her sleep or lie and relax and then when she wants attention let her come to you and give her a couple of strokes then stop.

maybe if she has not lashed out then, give her a biscuit or a little treat to reinforce that she has been good.

Once she is awake try not to leave her by herself too much, just so that she has company and knows she is loved but dont keep trying to play or touch her......think maybe she had gone into overload and couldnt cope.

Offline Christine (Blip)

  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • ******
  • Posts: 12648
  • Blip
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #23 on: January 11, 2009, 13:45:18 PM »
I think she needs a lot of time and patience and although she appeared to settle very quickly this was not actually true.

I am sure she needs attention but also space and her lashing out is just telling you and your son to stop touching me.

These are my thoughts exactly, Sue.  When Blip first came here, I didn't touch her at all or pick her up for about two weeks, and then only when she came to me.  I did talk to her all the time and offer my fingers for her to sniff.

Your little one has been through so much and she must be very confused right now.  I would back off, stop touching her, tell your son to keep his distance from her and wait for her to make the advances.
I'm a member of the British Humanist Association, the national charity supporting and representing people who seek to live good lives without religious or superstitious beliefs http://www.humanism.org.uk/home

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #22 on: January 11, 2009, 13:41:05 PM »
Tank you all again.. im sorry if i seem heartless.. things have gone a bit better for now.. but after anincident i have put suzy in the kitchen for a bit.. just to relax .. she doesnt seem to want to wander or play.. but does seem to want to fight at any given opportunity today

Offline Gill (sneakiefeline)

  • Rainbow Bridge/Rescue/Moderating Staff
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 73567
  • Misa at 4yrs old and new with me
  • Slave to: Misa, Sasa, Franta Napoleon RIP, Ducha RIP and Lupin, Kocka RIP
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #21 on: January 11, 2009, 13:36:04 PM »
If you were to trim her claws you must be very careful that you only take the tipoff and not cut into the quick......the colored bit........cos that will hurt her badly.

I think she needs a lot of time and patience and although she appeared to settle very quickly this was not actually true.

I am sure she needssa attention but also space and her lashing out is just telling you and your son to stop touching me. She may also see this as a game, she scratches you pull away and she stops then comes back to play again.

A way to stop this is not to pull away I am told!! and know thats not an option for your son anyway. Another way is to distract her with a toy on a string, it maybe she hasnt got the hang of playing before and she needs to learn how to do this. I found with my late Kocka who was around 10, that she did not know how to play and the way she learnt was with my hand under the duvet............bed mice..............and moving it was irresistable and she woul pounce, bite , catch my hand which was protected by duvet.

From there we gradualted to a toy on a string and then to ping pong balls and real catnip toys.

I think she has to be taught slowly slowly and shouting or any other sorta thing like that will not help.

It could be she is still missing her kittens and so much has happened to her in such a short time..............all I can advise is to keep in touch with the rescue and take things very slowly and patiently with her.

One of my cats Sasa is a semi-feral and cannot be touched at all and I have had her over 3 years, she was previously rehomed twice but sent back for lashing out and biting and I suspect there were children involved. Actually for her to lash out at me would be a bit of a breakthrough cos she will run away if I get too close but she loves her creature comfort, she is a very beautiful looking cat and the one time she couldnt run cos she was in her tent, she patted me on the hand, not a claw in sight but that was a warning to me to stop being so close.

Franta is a gripper and a biter and he will bite for no reason and with no warning and instead of just lying his paws on my arm he will grip with claws, in and out and use me like a pin cushion. Both birmans tend to bite!

My other cat Misa the giant, is a soft and gentle boy and do not think he would ever hurt me unless he was very very scared.

I suspect that the rescue rehomed Suzie before they got to know her after being speyed and with all kittens gone, they want to free up their space so unless a cat has been with them for quite a while they do not know it very well when its circumstances change and some maybe do not understand that cats change along with their circumstances.

Offline Kittybabe (Ruth)

  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • ******
  • Posts: 10867
  • Lexy - Queen of all Kittydom
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #20 on: January 11, 2009, 13:09:33 PM »
It might be that the rescue wasn't able to assess her that well. Maybe she does need another cat as company.

Offline Kittybabe (Ruth)

  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • ******
  • Posts: 10867
  • Lexy - Queen of all Kittydom
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #19 on: January 11, 2009, 13:08:26 PM »

i am sorry for going on and on.. didnt think about getting her declawed to be honest seems kind of drastic..


Not declawed hun, its not only barbaric and no vet will do it here thank God. Clipped or cut. Just clipping her claws so that they're not sharp, usually with nail clippers or proper pet clippers. When I manage to Lexy gets hers clipped just above the quick. She scratches herself so I have to do it otherwise I'd have a cat with wounds all the time.

Have you got a laser pen? They love chasing the laser dot all over the place. Lexy isn't one for toys, but the odd one will get her fancy. She has a few tents as well so she can go hide when she wants to.



Offline Janeyk

  • Rescue & Rehoming/Moderating Staff
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 21875
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #18 on: January 11, 2009, 13:06:53 PM »
I'm surprised the rescue didn't recommend a confirmed chilled out cat to begin with. My mum had this problem with her local CP. She told them she wanted a lap cat as a companion but ended up with a cat that has never sat on her lap in 2 years. She is really disappointed although wouldn't dream of taking her back.

that crossed my mind Mark, usually whether suitable with children is mentioned unless I suppose they didn't know but then it's risky just guessing.
Please consider the harder to home cats in rescue.

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #17 on: January 11, 2009, 13:05:07 PM »
Hi ruth thank you for that.. ive got all sorts of toys for her. small & big post.. mice..balls.. fish on a wand.. lol allsorts.. lol but she isnt interested at all.. she seems very depresed or stressed n clearly is not enjoying that side of things..

she tends to just sleep.. even with cat bed by radiator which i put old cot duvet on she is now curled up on that by radiator so son gets sofa so he is happy too - have pute food and clean litter and biccies n ham n all tings treat like down for her.. she is eating well.. and enjoying the treats and being spolied (which i love to do) now if i could just stop the behaviour..and tell her its ok you dont have to reach out n rip my skin off id be fine lol..dettol is getting large use today

i am sorry for going on and on.. didnt think about getting her declawed to be honest seems kind of drastic..

I dont want to send her back but a few more things have happened today .. an dits making me want to cry cos i think i know what i have to do.. and deep down im hoping next day or so it changes and she doesnt scratch n bite..but yes if it was just me i would be a lot more tolerant.. but its son i worry about..even though suzy seems to protect hi she has also lashed out a lot today @ him and I..

so today is a bad day.. and i am sorry for going on and on..

Offline Kittybabe (Ruth)

  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • ******
  • Posts: 10867
  • Lexy - Queen of all Kittydom
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #16 on: January 11, 2009, 12:04:34 PM »
Sue, it might sound a bit nutso, but do you think you might try having her claws clipped so that when she does that it won't hurt? If she doesn't get a reaction from either you or son, it might help to calm her a little.

No one will think badly of you, you've done the best you can and you have a little boy to think about.

Suzy might need a different environment but its worth it to try out the week and see?

What kinds of toys have you left out for her? Could be pent up aggression that could well be "played" out of her so that she tires out?

Sorry, just a few suggestions.

Offline Mark

  • Purrs Registered Cat Rescue
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 33326
  • Clapton
    • AnimalAid - Support Humane Charities
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #15 on: January 11, 2009, 11:58:07 AM »
I'm surprised the rescue didn't recommend a confirmed chilled out cat to begin with. My mum had this problem with her local CP. She told them she wanted a lap cat as a companion but ended up with a cat that has never sat on her lap in 2 years. She is really disappointed although wouldn't dream of taking her back.
DO NOT BREED OR BUY WHILE SHELTER ANIMALS DIE

I believe I am not interested to know whether Vivisection produces results that are profitable to the human race or doesn't. To know that the results are profitable to the race would not remove my hostility to it.  Mark Twain

Offline Janeyk

  • Rescue & Rehoming/Moderating Staff
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 21875
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #14 on: January 11, 2009, 11:50:22 AM »
I think it must be very difficult in this situation when you have a child, I agree you need to speak to the rescue more about this.
Please consider the harder to home cats in rescue.

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #13 on: January 11, 2009, 11:32:13 AM »
Thank you all - im sorry for sounding like an un-hinged madwoman.. Im not in the habit of turning away loving cats or anything like that.. Ive spoken with the foster person letting her know of the situation as she rang me to see how suzy was doing..

I just wish i could speak in cat talk and tell her i mean her no harm and that she is safe.. if i could find who badly treated her id have a few stern words @ them for messing this poor kitty's head up..

The CP recommended I keep her a week see how it goes and take it from there ..things are not going well today she is on the sofa and each time son or i pass she hisses.. yikes..(door is open so she can go off n roam if she wants but she has chosen to stay with us) so its not a good day.. apparently one lady that has her kitten told CP the kitten has done nothing but pine for mum bless.. i told cp perhaps the person who has her kitten would take in mum 2 and the aggression would stop.. but im no expert..not in a long shot..

no idea what will happen if things dont go well next few days and i give up suzy (which i really hope i dont have 2) cos i dont 1) want people to think bad of me 2) to give up on her 3) son 2 be scratched n bitten not sure if I will be able to adopt again or take on another cat/kitten.. no idea.. she does make this place a home.. but we are also on tenderhooks here today watching them both like  a hawk..

but please dont think of me as a bad person im not .. i just have to think of sons safety too.. and if she isnt happy here perhaps this isnt best enviroment for her..

im sorry u must think im awful

Offline Desley (booktigger)

  • Cat Rescue
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 18093
  • Molly, my wonderful babe
  • Slave to: Lucy
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #12 on: January 11, 2009, 11:16:38 AM »
Kizzy is like this, but she has calmed down considerably since I got her, she has been here for 4 months now - I wouldnt trust her with children still, but I dont have nearly as many scratches. I think a couple of days is way to early to tell how she is going to be, but obviously if she does continue to be like this in a few weeks, then you will have to have a chat with the rescue.
Please spay your cat



Offline Janeyk

  • Rescue & Rehoming/Moderating Staff
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 21875
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #11 on: January 11, 2009, 10:58:19 AM »
Hi Sue,

We adopted Schui 3 yrs ago this July and he was exactly like your cat.  He was a stray 12+ but had had a previous home as he had a collar mark.  He seemed a loveable enough but when we stroked him he would just lash out for no apparent reason.  We wondered whether he hurt somewhere we touched, whether he'd previously been hit allsorts went through our minds.  Anyhow as we had no answers we just watched our step, we mainly let him come to us for affection but always wary of ears going back and starting to rear (not always quick enough I may add and I've claws actually stuck in my hand and bruises  :(  anyhow over time this got less and less and now he hasn't lashed out for about 6 months touch wood.  He is infact the most loving cat we have had an loves to be nursed like a baby and cuddled very close rather than from a distance, our patience has really paid off and whatever the reasons he seems to totally trust us now.  Good luck with your kitty too although I can understand how you feel it is very upsetting especially when they come for the fuss and then swipe you for it.
« Last Edit: January 11, 2009, 11:02:01 AM by janeyk »
Please consider the harder to home cats in rescue.

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #10 on: January 11, 2009, 10:20:25 AM »
Please don't be mad at me for saying that.. I just really dont know what to do.. I have never experienced a cat that needs a wide birth @ times ..nor have i been mugged by a moggie before lol .. sure Ive had kittens before but they were never like this (yes I have the scars or kittenville lol)

Ive had 2 kittens to cats before .. my first died many moons ago gone but never forgotten.. she was always a poorly cat .. lots of TLC and passed away quietly and it took me a longtime to get over her.. my 2nd from a kitten was soxboy.. my boy fussiest eater I ever knew lol.. he used to curl up @ night time by my feet or in the crook of my arm up by me and my pillow lol.. wake up witha  tail up my nose lol but a warm nose so all good.. unfortunatley having been married to a nasty barsteward and violent man before i fled him I gave him up to a friend of mines uncle.. and last I heard he is very happy and settled.. but I miss him dearly.. but wouldnt want to dissrupt him again

Suzy is a very loving cat and even though she has swiped and scratched and bitten me (ad son) i havent yelled at her.. i just let her go and do her thing.. im not sure how I am to walk away sumtimes cos after son calms down she tends to as well.. but the strange thing is her going for me when she came for a fuss.. i let her go and do her thing.. but she happily returns for another fuss.. and i give her a little stroke talk to her a bit then walk away and leave her to sleep or snuggle etc..

she has tended to sleep loads since she has been here .. dispite many cat toys n scratch posts she doesnt seem to want to play or run round.. just sleep eat pee lol

I do love her to bits already even after a few days.. but am confused and upset by her actions.. as i hve never experienced it from a cat before (kittens sure they are prone to scratching yer arms to bits) lol.. but cats no..


Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #9 on: January 11, 2009, 09:51:29 AM »
I've had my cats for 2 and a half years from kittens - one of mine will occasionally do this, think he starts off wanting attention and then changes his mind and that's his way of telling me.  I can always tell as his tail starts swishing about and that's when I know its time to leave well alone.

I would give her time to settle in and just give her some space as it has only been a couple of days - she will be feeling very confused and insecure.   Because your son is smaller she perhaps feels less threatened by him so that is why she has struck a bond with him.

Thank you all for the replies - fingers crossed things will get better but got to be honest if everytime sons having tantrum and she goes for me..(without warning) Im not sure how much being pounced on I can take lol..

If she goes for son again.. Im afraid I just cant take the risk ..im sorry if I sound weak and daft...perhaps she would be better ina  quieter house without kids..time will tell
« Last Edit: January 11, 2009, 10:22:16 AM by Suzycat - Sue »

Offline Angeladeedah

  • Senior Cat
  • ****
  • Posts: 488
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #8 on: January 11, 2009, 09:47:06 AM »
I've had my cats for 2 and a half years from kittens - one of mine will occasionally do this, think he starts off wanting attention and then changes his mind and that's his way of telling me.  I can always tell as his tail starts swishing about and that's when I know its time to leave well alone.

I would give her time to settle in and just give her some space as it has only been a couple of days - she will be feeling very confused and insecure.   Because your son is smaller she perhaps feels less threatened by him so that is why she has struck a bond with him.

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #7 on: January 11, 2009, 09:41:30 AM »
Mine does that. She's 6 this April. I've had her for 3 years. She loves fuss on her terms but can switch suddenly. The signs are there though. The ears pulled back, the eyes suddenly going completely back when the pupils expand. My hands suddenly become prey  :naughty:

The key is to give her space. Let her do her own thing, let her set the tone, and don't respond to negative behaviour with fear. She'll sense that and it will become a new tool for her. When she strikes out, turn your back on her and walk away.

Im sorry if I sound silly...lol @  prey.. oeeeeeeeeeeer lol .. the space thing worries me cos she cane to me I gave her the fuss not too much not too little but no warning signs..thats the worrying part.. cos when son preforms and i have to sort him out Im looking for suzy to see if im out of danger zone myself.. the time i was putting sons coat on she was sat on sofa asleep my back to her and boom she was behind me and scratch son thought it was very amusing i however was in shock she did that..

I just dont know what to do.. Ive given her run of the house so she can do her thing now.. but she tends to stay near son or in the living room with us (it was mentioned on another thread she is protecting son perhaps as one of her kittens)  but its hard to deal with son and be wary of cat at sametime lol.. :shify:

I dont want to give up on her. I really dont..but its hard to walk away when dealing with son and she attacks me  :(


Offline Kittybabe (Ruth)

  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • ******
  • Posts: 10867
  • Lexy - Queen of all Kittydom
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #6 on: January 11, 2009, 09:28:40 AM »
Mine does that. She's 6 this April. I've had her for 3 years. She loves fuss on her terms but can switch suddenly. The signs are there though. The ears pulled back, the eyes suddenly going completely back when the pupils expand. My hands suddenly become prey  :naughty:

The key is to give her space. Let her do her own thing, let her set the tone, and don't respond to negative behaviour with fear. She'll sense that and it will become a new tool for her. When she strikes out, turn your back on her and walk away.

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #5 on: January 11, 2009, 09:25:01 AM »
She may be feeling hemmed in with too much fuss and needs some space. The odd lash out is normal cat behaviour although it is rare for cats to do it without some kind of warning. It's up to us to heed the warning and back off  :evillaugh:



It was bizarre she had jumped onto my lap enjoying fuss and boom she just tried to swipe n bite..eventually scratching my arm.. and that was that.. 10 mins later she was back for more fuss.. quite barmy..

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #4 on: January 11, 2009, 09:22:08 AM »
thank you for that blackcat.. her op was quite recent ..just makes me nervous with a boysterous 3 year old and  cat who will go for me if i pick son up when he is having a tantrum..just makes me nervous is all.. im just afraid she will swipe for him again .. with me she has drawn blood on 3 occassions since firday.. wasnt doing anything nasty honest.. lol.. all I was doing was giving her a stroke.. and boom the switch flipped and swipe.. the other time was both regarding son.. 1st time was he didnt want his bum changed so i picked him up.. she went for my leg scratching and biting.. the 2nd was son related too he didnt want to go out put his coat on etc.. when I was sat on floor she scratched my back.. which was a major owie..none of these involved shouting or anything bad just normal events in the toddler zone lol

I do love cats truly I do but admit right now the loving cat (which she is) also has a side that makes me very nervous.. for both me and son..

The lady that was fostering her before me had kids and she siad they got on great.. I do love her to bits as she is very sweet but I havent had a cat with a side that makes me nervous before

Offline Mark

  • Purrs Registered Cat Rescue
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 33326
  • Clapton
    • AnimalAid - Support Humane Charities
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #3 on: January 11, 2009, 09:18:35 AM »
She may be feeling hemmed in with too much fuss and needs some space. The odd lash out is normal cat behaviour although it is rare for cats to do it without some kind of warning. It's up to us to heed the warning and back off  :evillaugh:

« Last Edit: January 11, 2009, 09:19:03 AM by Mark »
DO NOT BREED OR BUY WHILE SHELTER ANIMALS DIE

I believe I am not interested to know whether Vivisection produces results that are profitable to the human race or doesn't. To know that the results are profitable to the race would not remove my hostility to it.  Mark Twain

Offline blackcat

  • Moderating/Auction Staff
  • Purrrrrfect Cat
  • *****
  • Posts: 15337
  • Home of Smidgen, Sebastian and Billy.
Re: Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #2 on: January 11, 2009, 09:06:42 AM »
Some cats just do that. But she may still just be coming to terms with the whole household living thing too. I missed the rest of the story so am assuming the kittens have found homes and she has now been speyed. How long ago was her op - she may still be feeling a bit tender, and possibly a bit tetchy if she is missing her kittens. The thing with any animal is it takes time. And cats can take quite a long time to come to terms with their new life. When I got Esther (similar background) she was really (and I mean really unhappy about being picked up. She still isn't all that comfy about it after 18 months, but is coming to terms with the idea. She is also a lot more affectionate these days than she was when she first arrived ... Two days is no time at all so I would just avoid opportunities - give her a stroke and then stop, instead of persisting for a longer time. She will get used to it with time ...

Offline Jess's Mum (Sue)

  • Adult Cat
  • ***
  • Posts: 156
Advice needed rescue cat that swipes for me ...
« Reply #1 on: January 11, 2009, 09:02:12 AM »
Ok as some of you know on Friday I rescued Suzy.. a 2 year old that was found in a shed with kittens.. she is a very loving cat..but I am also finding she has a darker side.. she has taken a few swipes and scratches at both me .. and now my son.. she is fine loves a fuss then will lash out..

Son doesnt pull her tail or anything like that.. she can be sat next to hom .. him stroking her ust fine and boom.. she will lash out..  I know she is still nervous etc.. but it seems she is developing a side that gives me concern for my son

I dont want to seem like I have given up already on her as she is a lovely cat really I am just very nervous of what she will do next..

any advice would be much appreciated

 


Link to CatChat