Introducing Tux; the cat who wears a tuxedo!

tarasgirl06

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Well, cats are nocturnal. It is dark in here from 8-10pm.. He is tired, Slowly trying to get Tux used to the winter when I will close the vertical blinds completely. He gets bored and does his hunting during that time. I can play with him earlier, just before supper, but that is not the 'time' for him. And it is NOT the time for me to pull out something to play with him. I am getting sleepy. I go to bed at 10pm, usually nap while watching TV. I sleep fitfully.

With the darkness, Tuxxie is used to hunting; things come out at night: Rats, mice, scourging for food, and fighting off the coyotes which we have in the city along with fighting off other feral/stray cats. So, it is his biological nature. Just need to change it around a bit.

His biting seems to have increased a bit. Cannot stop the at all. I have a container of treats next to me, but I am rarely giving them, because his behavior does not allow for rewards. I have to try again.. and be inventive.

He is still young, and unsocialized. He does love living here. I can see it in his actions, face, and posture.
Always on his back, sleeping, showing me his tummy. Sometimes he lets me kiss him.. and when he gets brushed he gets a treat.

Tuxxie loves the tub, and water.. fascinated by it. He loves to 'help' me make my bed. I have to somehow cover him with the sheet and then he jumps down. Loves to hang out on top of the bed frame where the drawers are located, and the bedspread overhangs. Kind of like 'his spot' when I make my bed. He still follows me around. Which I guess is a good thing.

So, he still has potential.. but, how long? and I am at my wits end about his biting.. keeping his nails short is a way to stop the scratching, but it seems to have increased the biting.. He has to get used to short nails. One thing at a time.. sigh..
He thinks he has to defend himself and maybe he thinks that because his claws are clipped, he has to use his other means of defense. This should definitely lessen in time, as trust grows. YES. One thing at a time!;)
 

IzzysfureverMom

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I would not count him out for becoming cuddly as well. Izzy was pretty nippy and also and ' great' at sticking claws into hands. I found during that time she only tolerated chin scratches or behind the ear scratches and I instructed everyone to only do those.Early on I found I needed to pay attention to when she had enough of that as well. Full body petting really set her off. She became a real neck nuzzler and I frequently wake up in the early morning with her on my chest with her head pressed into my neck, but it took time. As a kitten she was the most rambunctious little girl. Full speed ahead and into absolutely everything........ kinda like a tornado. We had another kitten at that time who was nine months older than her. She LOVED to run and he loved chasing her...... it worked for them. They were very different personalities. In contrast to Izzy he was very calm and laid back ( unlike her in your face personality)She brought out his playful side and gave him more confidence and he was adorably calming to her especially when she got anxious which was fairly often at the time. She relied on him to know everything was ok.You are gaining ground with him it is just taking time. That's normal, it probably never happens as fast as we want but it does happen.
 

maggiedemi

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My Frasier helps me make my bed every morning too, when my alarm goes off he suddenly appears! Tuxxie, quit hurting your mama! Don't make me come over there & holler at you! Here's a pic of my little innocent terrorist smiling in his sleep. Frasier: 😻
IMG_20241109_084551.jpg
 
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artiemom

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Just want to make an announcement. Sunday at 1pm I will be surrendering Tuxxie back to the shelter.
It has been over 2 months and his aggressiveness is worse than ever.
I have tried: Feliway plug ins, Feliway collar, several different calming treats, including one with CBD, working with ignoring him, got Feral Gloves, tried time outs with him in the bathroom, rewards for good behavior. The only thing he learned is how to use the scratching post, Jackson Galaxy stuff; I also tried prescription drugs-- prozac and gabapentin.. Got the lamb chop and teddy bear for him to use to get out his fights-- not working anymore. He has a couple of interactive toys-- nope...

It seems things have gotten worse the past couple of weeks. This week is the worst.
Wednesday, he bit me-- for no reason at all, in bed, in the same spot 3 times, forearm. Deep puncture would-- with a tiny bit of flesh removed. and bruises from the bite along with scratches all over both forearms and hands. Now the puncture wounds are itchy.. I fear infection. Taking care of them with triple strength antibiotic ointment, bandaids, and washing..

This morning was the last straw. He jumped on my bed, to get me up at 5am. He went over to the pillow, started nipping and then really biting and scratching my scalp when I ignored him. It hurt. I moved and covered my head. He then tried to attack my arms and then my legs through the bedspread and sheet. I ended up cowering under the covers to stop him. I was afraid to get up at that point.
Finally I got up, gave him his Gaba. Two hours later, it was the last straw. My tummy did not feel right. I wanted to lie down on top of the bed. Tux jumped up, immediately attacking me..I mean attacking..not playing. I could see his eyes dilated-- wild eyes, his mouth trying to sink into me -- deep biting and strong scratching. Tried the feral gloves.. still attacking wildly..

Tuxxie has his moments when he is really good, sweet; but they are unpredictable. I never know when he is going to change..It is like a switch going off in his brain. He does not understand the difference between hunting/survival instinct and normal play. He does not know how to play or just be a nice. I cannot live with a cat I am in fear of.. and now, I am in fear of him..

I have tried.. I have really tried. I have been crying all day about this..
Still crying about this.

Tux would be good as a barn cat or in a foster home with a couple other cats, which would get him in line.. If that is the case, I would happily take him back.. but right now, I cannot chance it. He should not be around dogs or kids.





IMG_2126.jpeg IMG_2109.jpeg IMG_2110.jpeg

Goodbye Tuxxie, I tried my best with you.. you just could not love because you never really knew love in your short life.. I will miss the sweet moments.. Beautiful boy...
 
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artiemom

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I came to this conclusion after a lot of soul searching.. I have never surrendered a cat.. I never in my life thought that I would be in this situation. I have been crying all day ...

I tried my best. I really did.. but I am now afraid of him, especially when I sleep. I could close my bedroom door, but he caterwauls when he is shut out of something..

I am afraid of severely being attacked and getting an infection. That happened to me once, a long time ago. I do not think my love was enough to teach him. I was also aided with an animal behaviorist.. I went all out.. spending money I do not have, in order not to get to this situation. I tried avoiding it all costs...
Asking help from everywhere.. trying everything.. and all.. This was the last solution.
 
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rubysmama

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So sorry to read this, but not shocked by the news. You just could not go on living with a cat that you were afraid of. You tried so many things, but poor Tux just had such a bad start to his life, and the shelter adopted him out too soon. I hope they'll find a foster home, or some other situation, to help him learn how to control his aggression. I also hope in time the shelter will help you adopt another cat that needs a home, but this time pay more attention to making sure it's a good fit for both of you. Good luck little Tux. I wish you could have adjusted to life with your mom, as she was one of the best cat moms you could have ever had.
 

iPappy

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I'm so sorry to hear this didn't work out with Tuxxie, but, the deep biting is concerning. I think if he had a place to go with more cats that could teach him how to "be a cat" it would be in his best interest. There's no sense in either one of you being unhappy about this arrangement. Now, the rescue will know what his quirks are better than they did.
I have a cat who lives at work with 3 other cats. He's a nice cat, he's pretty trouble free and quiet but he would be HORRIBLE as a house pet cat, especially as a single cat. He does not like to be held, picked up, or handled in any way, and will bite and claw (and mean it) if you attempt it. He accepts pets, but has drawn blood on me for something as simple as walking by him. He swats. He does well living in the cat area and seems to enjoy his companionship with the other 3 cats. He was up for adoption as a younger cat, but we quietly withdrew it when it became apparent he was not people affectionate and didn't seem to have any desire to be so. It wouldn't have been fair to adopt him out as a lap cat to someone who really wanted that affection and only wound up with an unhappy cat and bandaids all over their arms. Like you see with Tuxxie, it doesn't make him a "bad cat". But if the situation is not right for him, it's unfair to force it.
Please consider yourself his "foster Mom", who was able to find out what his quirks are so he'll be able to find a good forever home that will suit him best. Tell the shelter all you tried, and what helped and what didn't. For many rescues and shelters, this kind of information is very valuable and can help them find the best permanent home where everyone will thrive.
I am so sorry it didn't work out. I know you tried, much harder than most people would have. A lot of cruel people would have just opened their doors and tossed him outside to fend for himself.
 

Lari

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I agree with rubysmama rubysmama that the shelter adopted Tux out too soon. I think it was easy to base his wildness over just being neutered and hormones, and waiting a few weeks post that would have given them a better sense of his true personality.

You are such a loving, kind, and caring person. You gave everything you could to Tuxie, but something about your home wasn't the right fit. I applaud you for listening to your gut. I think knowing what we all know now, you're right that Tux would do better as a working cat in a barn or factory, or maybe in a place with lots of cats. No one knew that when you brought him home, and that's okay.

I know you are sad and crying, but give yourself grace. You made the right choice for both of you. And allow yourself a tub of Ben & Jerry's or something. :grouphug::hearthrob:
 

neely

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I think we all know you tried your best to go above and beyond with your best intentions for Tux. 🤗 You have been a helpful member to others who have gone or are going through some of the same health issues Artie and Geoffrey went through. In addition, you are a very supportive person. Shame on the shelter for not doing their research before putting Tux up for adoption. I sincerely hope they have learned something from your experience with Tux. We all want what's best for him and you. :grouphug:
 
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Kwik

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artiemom artiemom
You do not need to justify your actions to anyone,especially here with your friends who know you and love you- it was not a match from the get go,the shelter did not give full disclosure - I suspect this is not the first time Tuxxie was taken back

We have talked nearly everyday since Tux arrived at your house,he displayed signs of his high energy,dominant personality almost immediately -I could not make the decision for you,the right decision for you- you cannot live with a cat you are afraid of..... his unpredictable behavior is not something that is easily resolved,this type of behavior modification is not anything you are equipped to handle- nor should you be expected to,you've had SEVERAL injuries and this is a wise decision for you

No,Tux cannot be around children - his re- conditioning would require much professional handling and the shelter would be wise in placing him as a working cat if anyone other than someone experienced with aggressive behavior will adopt..... at this point it is no longer your problem my friend

You have given your all and sacrificed much,,held out probably longer than you should have..your safety is at risk and that is priority.... I know your heartbroken and I'm so so sorry,but please don't let this experience prevent you from adopting a kitty who is just right for you,a perfect match- with all thst love you have to give that would be a tragedy

I love you-Kwik
 
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artiemom

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Wouldn't you know it.. Tuxxie was a doll last night. It was as if he sensed that I was so upset and tried to the best of his ability to show me some love. He was on my lap for 90 minutes, sleeping peacefully.

This morning he did not wake me.. I woke him. of course, tossed and turned all night, up at 4am.
Called him over, we petted a bit.. I questioned my decision.. he came over to my chest, looking at my face for a minute, Then, he tried to NIP my cheek.. I knew what that would turn into.. gently moved him. next to me for pets.. Suddenly, I saw his eyes change.. I am always watching his eyes.. Yup, tried to nip== then bite my right forearm. I moved fast enough to avoid a full on latching attack. I literally had to push him off the bed. I got up as fast as I could; put socks on as he was prepared to latch onto to my left lower leg.. I mean latch on.. front paws into skin, biting furiously, his back paws digging into me. He is so strong that I can walk with him latched onto me. I managed to avoid it this morning.. but this is what I have been dealing with, when I say attacks..

Still watching 2 deep puncture wounds to left forearm with a couple of deep scratches and another deep scratch on right index finger from yesterday afternoon.

I was crying during Mass this morning. I was the Lector, so I had to sit up at the altar, do the readings, with tears coming down may face when I was not speaking. I kept praying and asking God, if I was making the right decision. And Why did he give me Tuxxie when HE knew it would not work out? Why more heartbreak in my life???

Ok.. enough maudlin stuff.. Have to get a box ready with Tuxxies things.. and try to love him for a bit before we leave.. a friend is insisting on accompanying me.. sorry for typos, tears coming down..
 
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artiemom

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I guess if I had any thoughts of not doing the right thing; God just sent me a message.. I was trying to brush him, after I got out the mini-flatbed which I use for his carrier-- easier on my back.
He did not want to be brushed, starting with the swatting and heavy biting. He was in my bedroom. I stopped, and decided to lie down on top of the bed for a bit. I called him over. Tux came over, jumped on the bed, started his full blown Feral attack of my arm.. I said NO.. took both arms, folded them under my chin. I was lying on my right side. I had my eyes closed.. good thing I did because he feral
attack-pounced on my left eye... Yup.. Had to use a lot of force to push him off the bed.. God gave me my answer.. Feeling like another bite/scratch will be coming out, later... part of my skin is red.. through the long sleeve flannel shirt....
For my physical safety, I cannot keep Tux, any longer. It would be foolish of me to put my body in harms way and always on guard for an attack.

Yeah, the rescuer, Brian texted me to say that he wants to change the time to 2;30pm instead of 1;30, because he forgot that he has to visit his mother in the nursing home!! OMG... That is why I wanted to try some cuddle time with Tux.. but it was not meant to be.
I think he knows he is leaving. The flatbed only comes out for his carrier. and I have been putting his food in a box with treats in a bag, with canned food. He knows something is up.. He has been eating up a storm of dry food and treats. I do not care. I have them. Opened bags, so I do not want to waste it. If they decide not to give it to Tux, then the Ferals will eat it.. It will not go to waste. Brian would take it..
 

IzzysfureverMom

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artiemom artiemom I am so sorry for all you have been through with Tux, but as you already know deep bites are a serious matter. You tried very hard to help him at it seems at times he was getting the idea that he was safe and loved but he just did not know how to live in that love.He obviously should not have been adopted out yet.
My neighbor adopted a boston terrier that had been in a puppy mill and at first it went very well.After awhile she starting attacking the other dogs( definitely not playing). Then my husband heard screaming when he was outside. He ran over there and my neighbor was on the floor and the dog was biting her hand.They are very experienced dog owners.But it could not continue.Like you they tried everything.
So I understand your fear. You don't have any idea what he will do next that is scary and dangerous.I hope in time you will consider adopting other cat. We all know you are a wonderful cat mom. I wish you comfort and peace. Thank you for trying with Tux it is all any of us can do.
 
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artiemom

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I am ok..It is done.. as usual Brian was late.. met a couple of wonderful volunteers. Bella who came on at 2pm was awesome. We waited inside. She was supposed to be training someone who did not show up..
She immediately understood the email I sent the group, and read between the lines of Brian's e-mail that it was just 'high energy'...

Pat, Bella and myself chatted while waiting for Brian.

Bella could not believe I gave so many things for Tuxxie: his wet food, 2 gallon zip lock bags of dry food, the Gaba, Lamb Chop, opened bags of treats, a couple mice, a Yeow banana, and most of all-- a list of what I have tried to do in order to keep him: calming treats, prozac, etc-- how he re-acts when going into Feral mode, how his eyes change. His food preferences, litter box preferences, etc..
Bella said this really shows how much I loved him and how much I tried to make it work..
Brian kept saying, "ok"...

Also got my dig in about Tucker-- the one he gave to someone else. I told him," I should have gotten Tucker!"-- through tears.. he just shrugged. dam him.

Of course I broke down several times.. the worst was after Brian took him into Iso.. I sobbed like a -- I do not know what-- putting my head down on my jacket, and just sobbed.. I do an ugly cry.. Still crying, thinking about it..

On the way home, Pat told me that she saw his eye color change!! when he got angry about staying in his carrier.. HIs eye color went from a pretty light green to a dark Coral color with his pupils hugely dilated. No one believed me when I said that I saw this change in him. But now someone else has verified my observation.

I am just having a bag of popcorn and a vodka & tonic. I am so emotionally drained and a bit physically exhausted.. I did wash out some dry food containers, earlier. I still have the water bowl, the food dishes, place mat to wash.. The Litter Genie to get rid of.. The litter box to get rid of.. the scatter rug--- which I used in place of the plastic litter mat-- Tuxxie chewed it, swallowing some pieces-- really a feral at work. And I have to get rid of the cardboard scratchers which he never used. I have to find room in my closet for the tall 3.5 food scratcher, his interactive toys.. Put some things in Geoffrey's storage box..
-- almost 45 minutes. We let Tuxxie out of the carrier to explore, since he was getting antsy.. He loved exploring and seeing the other cats.
Bella could not believe all the things I have tried, in order to keep Tuxxie. She knew I loved him, and really tried. She said privately, she would keep me abreast of the info on Tux.. She will get my address from the group volunteer email list.

I am leaving most of that for tomorrow.. just going to relax a bit.. So, I smell, poop and pee for another day.-- both Litter Genie and box needed to be cleaned.. Tomorrow is another day.. just going to wash the last container which held the dry food, and wash his food dishes.. the rest can wait..

Yes, God sent me several signs this afternoon that I am doing the right thing.. left eye got scratched from paw.. right wrist a few more scratches..

I only hope and pray that Tuxxie will be ok, in whatever environment he is placed in..

So it is done..
Thank you everyone for your support.. I will read certain things, but do not expect me to post much for a bit..

Actually, this is the first Holiday season I will be completely alone--No family, no cat.. it will be quiet and very different..
❤ to all...
 

maggiedemi

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My friend just surrendered her former feral too. It's not for everyone. They are better suited for an old country home in the woods like dad & I have. Plus the 6 of them have each other to beat up on. Wish I could have taken Tuxxie to be my 7th little terrorist! But it's pretty crazy to have 6 indoor ferals. It's hard, but dad & I do our best and we love them more than anything in this world. Safe travels Tuxxie, straighten up so you can find your forever home! ❤❤❤
 

maggiedemi

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artiemom artiemom --I was so sad last night about Tuxxie. But this morning I realized you said he was happy to see the other cats at the shelter? He probably misses his brother. The shelter should have left him with the other cats longer. The cats teach each other manners, discipline each other, teach ouch that hurts.They also shouldn't be adopting out feral cats to people who want a regular house cat. This is on them! Hope we get updates on Tuxxie. Bet he is playing with the other cats. I hope so. They should adopt them out in pairs, but I know that's hard.
 

tarasgirl06

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artiemom artiemom --I was so sad last night about Tuxxie. But this morning I realized you said he was happy to see the other cats at the shelter? He probably misses his brother. The shelter should have left him with the other cats longer. The cats teach each other manners, discipline each other, teach ouch that hurts.They also shouldn't be adopting out feral cats to people who want a regular house cat. This is on them! Hope we get updates on Tuxxie. Bet he is playing with the other cats. I hope so. They should adopt them out in pairs, but I know that's hard.
*From your keyboard Upwards, M maggiedemi , on this and your last post before this one. I pray for Tuxxie daily, that he will be safe and well cared for, accepted and loved. He did not ask to be abused. He deserves the very best humankind is capable of giving him.*
 
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