There are some REALLY nice cat shelf systems out there, designed to blend with almost any and every decor. And they range from "I can do that easily" to "OH MY GOD, WHERE'S THE LOTTO TICKET???"
Yeah, I know that feeling... we're going to try tiring them out with daily group play and will pursue a shelf system if there's still trouble.There are some REALLY nice cat shelf systems out there, designed to blend with almost any and every decor. And they range from "I can do that easily" to "OH MY GOD, WHERE'S THE LOTTO TICKET???"
Problem 2: Playtime & down time. I mentioned before that Cat 1 doesn't understand hissing. Cat 2 is great with self-directed play. He's always batting toys around, leaving feathers all over, etc. They often groom each other, which is so cute to see. But other times, Cat 1 decides he wants to play, and it's totally unlike what Cat 2 is used to. Cat 1 will chase him all over, kind of chomping at his rear haunches and batting. We know from experience with Cat 1 that this is how he plays, the chomps are playful and paws are always claws in. You can tell that Cat 2 takes it as an attack, and will eventually end up under the dresser or recliner. When he's cornered, it turns into a tussle with hissing and howling from Cat 2. And Cat 1, again not understanding social cues, just keeps coming. He still thinks it's a game.
Cat 2 will also lay down on top of Cat 1 when he's laying in his bed or on the cat tree until Cat 1 gets up so Cat 2 can get the spot. It seems like some weird power play.
I just went back to your original post to reply because I only want to talk about their behavior. I am also sure others have replied similarly but I don't have the time to read through the whole post.We're so frustrated, because half the time they are so sweet together, grooming each other and snuggling while they nap. Our cat sitter once told us that they act like they're litter mates! But we don't know how to correct any of this behavior - we don't know how to show Cat 2 that Cat 1 is just playing, don't know how to tell Cat 1 to chill out with the chasing, don't know how to solve the litterbox problems.
It can sound like murder and mayhem! My rule of thumb is, if there is no blood on the floor or fur in the air, there is no fight, just rowdy play or heated discussions.I'm also seeing lots of users in other threads offhandedly mentioning how horrific male play can sound, and that makes me feel better.
If you would like to find a feline specialist, and you are in the USA, this site has a search engine by zip code. Be sure to select the "Feline ONLY" option.We've had some disagreements with our current vet and have been looking for a new one.
We actually have 6 boxes - if you look further up, I posted a map. I don't think it's constipation, as I've watched him come into the spare room and squat down and go. No attempt at the box at all.Could it be that one of them is constipated and is struggling to go in the box and then leaves it and suddenly has to go later? I don't know, just thinking...
You have 2-3 litterboxes available to them right?
Thanks for these resources! I'll take a look.If you would like to find a feline specialist, and you are in the USA, this site has a search engine by zip code. Be sure to select the "Feline ONLY" option.
https://catvets.com/
Also, these articles may help in your search:
How To Choose The Best Veterinarian For My Cat?
Cat Vet Checkup - What To Expect
How To Talk To Your Vet