I have a wonderful, sweet TigerTortie with a stress disorder and need to know if anyone can suggest ways of reducing her stress.
Here's some background:
First, and most important, Gracie's stress disorder is something that she's had since she was a baby, so it's not any thing that's causing stress. In fact, there are plenty of times that the things that will totally stress her out one day will not bother her one bit the next.
When she was only 6 months old, the stress resulted in a crystal or stone imbedding itself in her bladder. She had surgery where the doctor actually had to remove part of her bladder.
When she's calm, she's the most affectionate, snuggly, friendly, perfect little kitty. When she's stressed, she wont let me or anyone else come anywhere near her. Oh, and, of course, there's the lack of using the litter box.
There is only one thing that's come close to helping, and that's glucosamine capsules (I cant recall why that helps, but my vet explained it to me). The main problem with that is trying to pill her when she's not stressed out is bad enough, but when she's already stressed, pilling her is downright traumatic. It also makes her throw up.
I've also discovered when I dont have to work, she's much calmer. As much as I'd love to, I dont have the luxury of not working so I could stay home for her.
Does any one have any suggestions? I'm afraid if I cant find a solution, I'll be forced to find her a home better suited for her needs.
Thanks
Here's some background:
First, and most important, Gracie's stress disorder is something that she's had since she was a baby, so it's not any thing that's causing stress. In fact, there are plenty of times that the things that will totally stress her out one day will not bother her one bit the next.
When she was only 6 months old, the stress resulted in a crystal or stone imbedding itself in her bladder. She had surgery where the doctor actually had to remove part of her bladder.
When she's calm, she's the most affectionate, snuggly, friendly, perfect little kitty. When she's stressed, she wont let me or anyone else come anywhere near her. Oh, and, of course, there's the lack of using the litter box.
There is only one thing that's come close to helping, and that's glucosamine capsules (I cant recall why that helps, but my vet explained it to me). The main problem with that is trying to pill her when she's not stressed out is bad enough, but when she's already stressed, pilling her is downright traumatic. It also makes her throw up.
I've also discovered when I dont have to work, she's much calmer. As much as I'd love to, I dont have the luxury of not working so I could stay home for her.
Does any one have any suggestions? I'm afraid if I cant find a solution, I'll be forced to find her a home better suited for her needs.
Thanks