PREGNANT STRAY I ADOPTED

  • Thread Starter Thread Starter
  • #44

nikki4526

TCS Member
Thread starter
Young Cat
Joined
Apr 9, 2016
Messages
46
Purraise
21
Location
Poughkeepsie, NY
Hi ya'll! Having a little issue with Mini and my male Sid. In the past 24 hours, they've gotten into two nasty fights where I was left bitten, scratched and bleeding. She wasn't like this when she was pregnant or immediately after the birth. Only in the last 24 hours has she been extremely protective and territorial. Sid was just walking through the house each time she attacked. Is this normal or is this something I should be concerned about? She hasn't had any problems with my female cat, as Bear just hisses at her and walks away. Sid is kind, playful and respecting of Mini so this surprised me a lot. I can't have this happening in my home, especially with my male who has been with me the longest and is my first kitty. I completely understand how she can be acting more crazy now that she has kittens to care for but the unwarranted attacks are scary and vicious. I don't believe in getting rid of pets just because but this is just bad. I have a bite on my hand and scratches on my legs but Sid doesn't seem to be affected negatively. I put her in the bathroom with the kittens to cool off but don't want to let her out again. Does anyone have any advice on what to do with this situation? I'm freaking out and completely devastated.. I scrubbed my bite with antibacterial soap, soaked it in salt water, scrubbed peroxide and rubbing alcohol into it and bandaged it up with Neosporin. I know I should probably go to the emergency room for the proper antibiotics for cat bites but I'm extremely broke at the moment and don't even have money to pay for my prescription. It's been a bad day to say the least.
 
Last edited:

Sarthur2

Cat lady extraordinaire
Staff Member
Advisor
Joined
Mar 8, 2015
Messages
35,963
Purraise
17,627
Location
Sunny Florida
Your hand will hopefully heal on its own. I'm sorry that happened. Keep a broom handy in case you have to break up a fight ever again. Let's hope not though!

For now, they need to be kept separated. Do you have a spare room to put mom and babies in? They need more space than the bathroom.

She's clearly not ready to be around your male cat with her babies barely 5 weeks old. I really doubt she will act this way once her kittens are bigger. You know that your male is a sweetie, but she doesn't.
 

parisinthe30sx

TCS Member
Adult Cat
Joined
Apr 23, 2015
Messages
232
Purraise
106
Location
Georgia
Cats aren't aggressive just for the sake of being aggressive. There's always a reason behind it. Mother cats in particular are very protective of their kittens. Especially since the kittens are older and more active. Male cats often kill kittens, though usually tomcats only, but I've seen altered male cats react real aggressive to kittens, she's more than likely trying to keep your other cat from getting too close. Another reason is she could be simply having a bad day, don't forget she has alot of hormones in her body after having kittens, not to mention she's probably exhausted She probably bit you due to redirected aggression. Keep her in her area until she calms down and introduce them back slowly. Maybe rubbing a sock on your existing cats face getting those happy facial hormones, and giving it to momma. My momma cat did the same thing to my existing cats, she would attack them with what looked like no reason at all,or so I thought at the time. But, keep an eye on your male cat. the clues are subtle, he could be acting aggressive to her or the kittens without you realising it. Watch his ears, whiskers, body language. Eventually my cats worked it out. It just takes time. Mother cats are fiercely protective. Once the kittens all find homes, I bet she'll calm down
 
  • Thread Starter Thread Starter
  • #48

nikki4526

TCS Member
Thread starter
Young Cat
Joined
Apr 9, 2016
Messages
46
Purraise
21
Location
Poughkeepsie, NY
I appreciate all of your advice SO MUCH. Unfortunately, I had to go to the emergency room at 3am because I had a 102° fever, swelling, redness, serious pain and a fast moving infection visibly trailing up my arm. I received IV antibiotics, a tetanus shot and meds to take for a few weeks. I currently live in a loft and only have one door; the bathroom. I'm completely lost on what to do now since before this weekend, she was absolutely fine and had no signs of being concerned about Sid. She was rubbing on him allowing him to see the babies and everything. I've been keeping a very close eye on all of the cats behaviors, body language and habits since Mini gave birth and these attacks still seem so random to me but like you guys said, she may know something I don't. I did a lot of research during her pregnancy on how to handle her with my two cats, especially the male and saw how males could act towards kittens and maintained cautiously with them together. I'm definitely not blaming them. It's only instinct for momma since growing up in the streets as it is. I definitely shouldn't have used my body as a device to separate them but I wasn't thinking. I know she didn't mean to bite me and only did because she thought it was Sid but I just don't know how to handle them together for now and where to place the kittens and mama to get more space. I feel terrible.[emoji]128532[/emoji]

 
Last edited by a moderator:

parisinthe30sx

TCS Member
Adult Cat
Joined
Apr 23, 2015
Messages
232
Purraise
106
Location
Georgia
I appreciate all of your advice SO MUCH. Unfortunately, I had to go to the emergency room at 3am because I had a 102° fever, swelling, redness, serious pain and a fast moving infection visibly trailing up my arm. I received IV antibiotics, a tetanus shot and meds to take for a few weeks. I currently live in a loft and only have one door; the bathroom. I'm completely lost on what to do now since before this weekend, she was absolutely fine and had no signs of being concerned about Sid. She was rubbing on him allowing him to see the babies and everything. I've been keeping a very close eye on all of the cats behaviors, body language and habits since Mini gave birth and these attacks still seem so random to me but like you guys said, she may know something I don't. I did a lot of research during her pregnancy on how to handle her with my two cats, especially the male and saw how males could act towards kittens and maintained cautiously with them together. I'm definitely not blaming them. It's only instinct for momma since growing up in the streets as it is. I definitely shouldn't have used my body as a device to separate them but I wasn't thinking. I know she didn't mean to bite me and only did because she thought it was Sid but I just don't know how to handle them together for now and where to place the kittens and mama to get more space. I feel terrible.[emoji]128532[/emoji]


[/quote
You poor thing!!! That looks painful. Is there a rescue that would take in momma and the babies for now? Once the kittens are all adopted I'm sure momma will calm down.she's just overly protective right now. I know it's not ideal to move her and the kittens right now, but maybe a rescue group will be able to help you, especially if you tell them you want the momma cat back when she's weaned the kittens. I know what your going through, I had a momma with 5 kittens, she did not get along with my other 2 cats(which are her sisters incidentally) but once the kittens were weaned she acted totally different, night and day, and now they are all best buds. (Most of the time ;). ) Take.It slow, keep her in the bathroom, don't let the male anywhere nea r her space. Do the sock swap thing, when they finally come face to face again use alot of treats and praise. Cats usually work out the pecking order on their own, but her being with kittens definitely complicates matters. What state are you located in?I could do a few searches for rescues if you'd like
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Sarthur2

Cat lady extraordinaire
Staff Member
Advisor
Joined
Mar 8, 2015
Messages
35,963
Purraise
17,627
Location
Sunny Florida
So sorry to hear this. It looks painful.

I think a Felliway diffuser would help to calm everyone. They are cheaper online than at pet stores. I've used them with great success.
 
  • Thread Starter Thread Starter
  • #51

nikki4526

TCS Member
Thread starter
Young Cat
Joined
Apr 9, 2016
Messages
46
Purraise
21
Location
Poughkeepsie, NY
I have the diffuser and the wipes and they do nothing. As of today, Mini is absolutely fine. Sid is staying away and kind of afraid of her but not so afraid that he avoids all of us all together. He's very smart and is respecting her and her space. It's been very hot today so I had to leave the bathroom door open so the air conditioner could reach and she's been very good. I'm not sure if I feel comfortable putting her in a shelter while she has the kittens. That just doesn't seem fair since she has terrible separation anxiety from me as it is and id like to be there for her and kittens 24/7. I'm keeping a very close, cautious eye on all of the cats for signs of negative behavior but she and Sid seem very calm today. They both smelled my wound and immediately laid in my lap and cuddled me. Mini seems to feel remorse which is obviously not something cats are known to do haha. My swelling has gone down a lot but still in an extreme amount of pain but when my ibuprofen kicks in, I clean the litter pans and whatnot. Thank you again. I live in Dutchess County New York at the moment but the again, the cats seem to be on a different level of calm today THANK THE CAT GODS. I keep saying to myself "with passion comes pain" and it's getting me through this, as do your comments, advice and kind words![emoji]10084[/emoji]️
 

Sarthur2

Cat lady extraordinaire
Staff Member
Advisor
Joined
Mar 8, 2015
Messages
35,963
Purraise
17,627
Location
Sunny Florida
If you just bought the diffuser it takes a few days to begin working. It says so on the package.

I doubt a shelter would even take them. Shelters are over loaded as it is during kitten season.

I'm glad to hear that everyone is calmer today. How is your hand?
 

blueyedgirl5946

TCS Member
Veteran
Joined
Sep 10, 2005
Messages
14,593
Purraise
1,695
Have you seen a doctor for your cat bite. Be sure to take good care of yourself as these things can get nasty if an infection sets in.
 

howmany

TCS Member
Alpha Cat
Joined
Jun 8, 2016
Messages
332
Purraise
42
Location
Nova scotia
Could you beg or borrow a pressure type of baby gate then although momma cat could jump it kitten couldn't yet and syd would not be inclined to, then you would be able to leave door open. Fridge box cardboard can help make kitten walls.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • Thread Starter Thread Starter
  • #55

nikki4526

TCS Member
Thread starter
Young Cat
Joined
Apr 9, 2016
Messages
46
Purraise
21
Location
Poughkeepsie, NY
Have you seen a doctor for your cat bite. Be sure to take good care of yourself as these things can get nasty if an infection sets in.
Yep! Off antibiotics and whatnot. Hand has healed almost perfectly minus some skin peeling from the deep wound and a tiny, diminishing blood blister. It was terribly infected after only 6 hours and ended up in the ER where the infection was visibly traveling up my arm, almost to my shoulder which could have caused sepsis and the need for operation to clean the tendons, bone and dead tissue extraction. I was told if I waited until morning, I would have been on an operating table. Very scary but glad I know about cat bites and how terrible they can be from past research. Thank you for checking up on me! :)
 
  • Thread Starter Thread Starter
  • #56

nikki4526

TCS Member
Thread starter
Young Cat
Joined
Apr 9, 2016
Messages
46
Purraise
21
Location
Poughkeepsie, NY
So, kitties are seven weeks today and I'm still having issues with Momma Mini. Kittens are out in the house all day with Mini while the other cats are in a separated room with a baby gate but unfortunately, Mini jumps over the gate and sometimes attacks or tries to attack my male Sid and only my male. I put her in the bathroom with her babies at night so I can sleep and she howls and cries and scratches ALL night but when she's out of the bathroom without the babies, she calms for a few minutes then cries to get back in then the vicious cycle continues. I'm kind of losing my mind. I won't lie and this whole experience has been half nightmare, half rewarding, wonderful and amazing. Learning how to care for Momma, kittens AND my two adult cats for the first time as I go is tough and I feel hopeless at times. I don't really have anyone to ask questions to who's experienced in raising kittens with their mother and other cats in the house so I come here to vent and request advice. I apologize if I keep blowing up everyone's feeds I'm just trying to keep calm and kitten on. The baby gates worked until the kittens learned how to climb them and escape. My two adults know not to jump the gates but when my male gets spooked, he makes a run for the stairs to the bedroom which goes through the kittens space so it's very stressful when Mini attacks Sid after he's already spooked and afraid. I'd trade spaces with the kittens and my two adult cats (living room is where the adults are and bathroom/kitchen/entry/staircase blocked at top where bedroom is located is where kittens/Mini are) but Mini gets stressed when she doesn't have direct access to the kittens room/bathroom with both herself and the kittens. Trying to take this one day at a time but I'm completely stressed and riddled with anxiety and sadness hearing Mini cry, knowing she's upset as well as knowing I can't just keep them all together in one, big, happy cat family. Thank you for listening and for any advice you may have for my situation. It's appreciated SO very much.
 
Last edited:
  • Thread Starter Thread Starter
  • #57

nikki4526

TCS Member
Thread starter
Young Cat
Joined
Apr 9, 2016
Messages
46
Purraise
21
Location
Poughkeepsie, NY
If you just bought the diffuser it takes a few days to begin working. It says so on the package.


I doubt a shelter would even take them. Shelters are over loaded as it is during kitten season.

I'm glad to hear that everyone is calmer today. How is your hand?
I am definitely going to be purchasing the diffuser. Anything that could possibly help, I will try. I am so desperate for anything to subside the tension in my house. My most recent post discusses Mini's recent behavior. It's very difficult and sad seeing her go through this and trying to make her mommyhood as calm and easy as possible with the least amount of stress. My hand is very well! It's healed up great, aided with two weeks of heavy antibiotics and pain medication hah. The infection was definitely on the verge of causing sepsis and a possibly operation. Hopefully things get a little more manageable and less stressful for all of us involved. Thanks for the advice and checking in on my hand. :)
 

Sarthur2

Cat lady extraordinaire
Staff Member
Advisor
Joined
Mar 8, 2015
Messages
35,963
Purraise
17,627
Location
Sunny Florida
Your situation sounds very stressful indeed.

Can you put Mini and the kittens in a bedroom and close the door? A bedroom is enough space for the kittens to play at this age, and Mini may relax more in the enclosed room. It sounds like the baby gate is no longer a viable option.

She really is trying to protect her kittens from your male. Even though he will not hurt them, it is instinctual on her part to defend her territory.

You can visit and play with the kittens in the bedroom, or occasionally bring them into a common area when you can supervise, and when your male cat is safely ensconced elsewhere.

I would stop putting mom and kittens in the bathroom at night, and instead leave them in a bedroom with door closed.

So instead of keeping your resident cats in a spare room, keep Mini and kittens in there with the door closed. Allow your residents the run of the house. Put food, water, and litter in the room, along with toys. Mom and kittens will be fine.

Mini will be going into heat soon. Are you able to spay her at a low-cost clinic? Mini's behavior will calm down greatly after she is spayed.

Although the kittens need to stay with mom for 10-12 weeks, have you found homes for them yet?

Please do not worry about asking questions on your thread. That's what we are here for!
 
  • Thread Starter Thread Starter
  • #59

nikki4526

TCS Member
Thread starter
Young Cat
Joined
Apr 9, 2016
Messages
46
Purraise
21
Location
Poughkeepsie, NY
So, kitties are 9 weeks old and I'm still having issues with Momma Mini Mhysa. Kittens are out in the house all day with Mini while my male is in a separated room with a tall baby gate but unfortunately, Mini still jumps over the gate and has been attacking my male Sid and only my male who is neutered, at least 3 times a week since the kittens were 4 weeks old. I put her in the bathroom with her babies at night so I can sleep. She went into heat on July 5th and seems to still be in heat (today is the 21st) and goes through spurts of loving Sid and viciously attacking him which I cannot have anymore. I'm kind of losing my mind, I won't lie and this whole experience has been half nightmare, half rewarding/wonderful/amazing. Learning how to care for Momma, kittens AND my two adult cats for the first time all together as I go is tough and I feel hopeless at times. I don't really have anyone to ask questions any time of the day (since you can't have the vet answering questions 24/7 obviously) who's experienced in raising kittens with their mother and other cats in the house so I come here to vent and request advice. I apologize if I keep blowing up everyone's feeds I'm just trying to keep calm and kitten on. The baby gates worked until the kittens learned how to climb them and escape. So now the kittens have free roam of the downstairs while my poor male hides upstairs until Mini jumps the gate and attacks him while he's sleeping, using his litter box, eating or just moving around. Luckily, this baby gate is tall and the kittens don't attempt it. I'm trying to take this one day at a time but I'm completely stressed and riddled with anxiety and sadness knowing I can't just keep them all together in one, big, happy cat family. It's come to the point where I don't think I can keep Mini anymore. The kittens are 9 weeks old, healthy, happy and going to their new homes on August 6th, the day after Mini is set to be spayed but this situation with Mini is no longer acceptable. Sid wants nothing to do with her or the kittens so I'm not understanding why she would want to attack him. My other female cat adores the kittens, cares for them, teaches them, plays with them and mothers them more then Mini does and Mini has absolutely no issue with her. This is all new to me and I've never had an issue like this so I'm at a complete loss. Having to rehome her is devastating but I think that's the only thing that will make all of my cats happy. If anyone has any advice, I would appreciate it more then you know. I've done the pheromone therapy, spoken to vets/vet employees, rescue/shelter owners and employees, cat behavioralists and fellow cat lovers and they all recommend getting her spayed and see how she is after the kittens are gone but I can't deal with this another month or two until she acclimates. It's breaking my heart to even think of having to get rid of her but im not sure what else I could possibly do to bring peace back into my home. Thank you for listening and for any advice you may have for my situation. It's appreciated SO very much.... :(
 
  • Thread Starter Thread Starter
  • #60

nikki4526

TCS Member
Thread starter
Young Cat
Joined
Apr 9, 2016
Messages
46
Purraise
21
Location
Poughkeepsie, NY
Unfortunately, I live in a loft and only have the bathroom that has a door. It's a tough situation and I wasn't expecting kittens when I rescued Mini so this was all on a whim :( I'm trying to do the best I can but I'm not sure if my best is cutting it anymore.

Your situation sounds very stressful indeed.

Can you put Mini and the kittens in a bedroom and close the door? A bedroom is enough space for the kittens to play at this age, and Mini may relax more in the enclosed room. It sounds like the baby gate is no longer a viable option.

She really is trying to protect her kittens from your male. Even though he will not hurt them, it is instinctual on her part to defend her territory.

You can visit and play with the kittens in the bedroom, or occasionally bring them into a common area when you can supervise, and when your male cat is safely ensconced elsewhere.

I would stop putting mom and kittens in the bathroom at night, and instead leave them in a bedroom with door closed.

So instead of keeping your resident cats in a spare room, keep Mini and kittens in there with the door closed. Allow your residents the run of the house. Put food, water, and litter in the room, along with toys. Mom and kittens will be fine.

Mini will be going into heat soon. Are you able to spay her at a low-cost clinic? Mini's behavior will calm down greatly after she is spayed.

Although the kittens need to stay with mom for 10-12 weeks, have you found homes for them yet?

Please do not worry about asking questions on your thread. That's what we are here for!
 
Top