- Joined
- Feb 10, 2014
- Messages
- 16
- Purraise
- 10
I've been around cats most of my life, fostering kittens for over a year. A week ago i took in a feral kitten whose previous foster could not find time to socialize. About 10 weeks old from a feral mom, vaccinated (FVRCP & FeLV), negative for FIV/FELV. He is not just skittish, but will lunge teeth bared and claws drawn if you get within 2 feet. Currently in a 36" dog crate - house isn't large enough for a dedicated "cat room"; i have 2 other foster kittens and an old cat, and don't want them getting hurt. He is eating and using the litterbox, never when i'm around. He has a small cardboard box to hide in, and seems to spend most of the day there, immobile and staring out with frightened eyes. I try playing with him, no interest. When i play in the same room with my other fosters, he has no reaction. I contacted the previous foster, she could pick him up with a towel and i think he ate in front of her, that's as far as it got. I have music playing so he doesn't go nuts from the silence (I am retired, very quiet, and live alone). My question is: when do you decide that keeping him locked up without exercise and stimulation is not in his best interest? i work with a rescue that is willing to neuter him and release back to his colony, if necessary. i know one week is quite short, but being cooped up in a cage is not a good situation for an active kitten. thank you!