Poppy's story: SPCA shelter cat, female, spayed, almost 5 years old, declawed by original owner. Original owner (OO) died, wife dumped my new girl at SPCA, saying she couldn't handle her because Poppy was distraught at losing owner, and anxious bigtime when wife went out and left Poppy alone. OO apparently "rough-housed" with Poppy, lots of hand rough play. Poppy was adopted out but was returned to SPCA after 5 weeks: eliminating outside litterbox, extreme timidity, wouldn't allow herself to be picked up. Bit adoptive owner who tried to force cuddling on cat. Adoptive owner phoned SPCA to say not to adopt her out again, the morning I happened to visit to adopt. I took Poppy home BECAUSE of her story.
Per SPCA, no medical issues other than constipation. I have her on a 1-month "foster to adopt" but am determined she will not be returned to the shelter. She is home for good with me.
She is eating well, is on Restoralax in food re the constipation, so I hope that issue will resolve in a day or two.
Need any / all advice re litterbox re-training, gentling her along to get her out of hiding spots she has found in my apartment. Any books / articles / etc. that I might find helpful? I know it will take a very long time to earn Poppy's trust. I suspect past abuse, so she is awfully fearful just now. Am prepared for a long-term commitment. Just don't know where to start.
Many thanks for any and all advice.
Per SPCA, no medical issues other than constipation. I have her on a 1-month "foster to adopt" but am determined she will not be returned to the shelter. She is home for good with me.
She is eating well, is on Restoralax in food re the constipation, so I hope that issue will resolve in a day or two.
Need any / all advice re litterbox re-training, gentling her along to get her out of hiding spots she has found in my apartment. Any books / articles / etc. that I might find helpful? I know it will take a very long time to earn Poppy's trust. I suspect past abuse, so she is awfully fearful just now. Am prepared for a long-term commitment. Just don't know where to start.
Many thanks for any and all advice.