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- Oct 26, 2015
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I'm not sure if this is the right place for this thread, but I had hoped I could get your opinions on something. I've recently been diagnosed with some mental health issues - namely anxiety and depression. This has NOT resulted in my pets' care being compromised (I have one cat and five gerbils - who live in three tanks). But it has resulted in a fear that I'm doing something wrong or upsetting Onyx (my cat) in a way that he can't "forgive."
Examples: accidentally kicking him when he gets under my feet. Working hard to keep him away from the gerbils. Picking him up when he's not in the mood.
Most of the time I know that these things won't harm him in the long run, but I worry because I've read about how cats pick up on human emotions; their trust has to be earned; and something I don't notice could turn into redirected aggression.
I love Onyx very much and he's nearly the perfect kitten (great litter box habits, affectionate, playful) so I don't have any basis for these fear, aside from what I've read about things that COULD happen.
My questions are: 1.) Are these legitimate concerns? 1 a.) What can I do to ensure he stays happy and loving? 2.) If cats pick up on human emotions, should I avoid him when I'm feeling down?
Thank you all for your insights.
Examples: accidentally kicking him when he gets under my feet. Working hard to keep him away from the gerbils. Picking him up when he's not in the mood.
Most of the time I know that these things won't harm him in the long run, but I worry because I've read about how cats pick up on human emotions; their trust has to be earned; and something I don't notice could turn into redirected aggression.
I love Onyx very much and he's nearly the perfect kitten (great litter box habits, affectionate, playful) so I don't have any basis for these fear, aside from what I've read about things that COULD happen.
My questions are: 1.) Are these legitimate concerns? 1 a.) What can I do to ensure he stays happy and loving? 2.) If cats pick up on human emotions, should I avoid him when I'm feeling down?
Thank you all for your insights.