I don't think this is going to work.

Here's an update on how things are going with the cats.

There was another full-fledged catfight in my kitchen today. Doodle (my mom's cat, who is 9 years old) lost some fur and she peed all over the floor.

I really don't think this is going to work. I think we're going to have to give Delilah away.

I am completely heartbroken. We want to do what is best for her, and we hoped that would mean giving her a spot in our home. I just don't think we're going to be able to keep her.

I am an emotional wreck right now.

Re: I don't think this is going to work.

Why don't you try limiting her once again for now, esp until her babies are gone? I really think it's too soon for her to have run of the house, being hormonal and still feeding her babies. I just have a feeling she isn't fully adjusted, so many changes in her life and it's too much too soon. It really is expecting alot to think a cat from outside, who just had a litter of kittens and is still mothering them, will get along nicely with other cats in your home. KWIM? My outside cat who had her kittens took a LONG time to mellow down...I mean, a LONG time...

JMO. I know you want it to work, so that's why I say limit her for now until the other things settle down.

ETA - I say try the above first. If in time it doesn't work out, you know you have no choice but to find her a new good home. I know you really want it to work, you can only do so much.

Message edited 10/10/2008 11:49:43 AM.

Re: I don't think this is going to work.

OMG I really feel terrible for you right now!! remember your pregnant as well please dont let this get you down.. when you find another home (if thats what you decide) It will be the perfect home for her and you will be at peace with your decision.. I am so so so sorry..

Re: I don't think this is going to work.

The thing is, she's not nursing the babies anymore. We had her spayed about 3 weeks ago...she doesn't have any milk supply left. I guess maybe because the babies are still here?

I am just so torn up about this. We not only need to still find homes for 5 kittens, but now we need to find a home for her as well. Kittens are hard enough nowadays, but no one is going to want a fully-grown cat.

I am SO upset. This is what I get for trying to do the right thing.

Re: I don't think this is going to work.

Beth, she still has that motherly instinct even if she isn't nursing. She does still care for them, right?

Plus, you have to remember, she still was an outside cat. These things will take time, for her to adjust. Even if she didn't have babies, she would likely still be acting like she is, due to having lived outside...and coming into your home as an adult (not kitten).

Is there an organization that maybe could help find the babies homes? Do you have any homes for any of them?

And I didn't realize she was fixed ...but regardless, it's all such an adjustment for an outside cat and for inside cats when another adult cat comes into the home. For them to get along would be odd IMO....

I feel for you, I really do understand.

Message edited 10/10/2008 11:54:57 AM.

Re: I don't think this is going to work.

I agree with goobster. Why don't you keep Delilah isolated until her kittens are gone? Put her with her babies and then when they are all adopted out, let her out slowly.

Re: I don't think this is going to work.

I think you did great by her....you need to look out for your cat first. I am sorry things are not working out