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Q. Hi! We have one cat, Dani, who is just over a year old, and a kitten, Maia, who is about 7 months old. Maia and Dani get along great, are always cuddling, etc. Dani is very sweet to us, cuddly, and loving. Maia, however, is terrified of us. She won't come out from under the bed if we're within 5 feet of her. She has always been skittish, but it's getting to the point where it feels like we only have one cat, since we never see Maia. When we do get close enough to pick her up, despite our efforts to hold her close, keep her feeling safe, etc., she begins to breathe very fast and make tiny mewing noises. Is there anything we can do? We also have two dogs, and they all get along great. Help is appreciated! Thanks. -- Nora P., FL

A. Cat psyche is never easy! Because there may be "skeletons" in little Maia's closet that we will never understand, I think you should prepare yourself for a one cat household. I do think you should continue to try bonding with short periods of holding Maia, lots of positive reinforcement with treats if possible (tuna might work) and no loud noises or quick movements. If all else fails, you may want to talk to your Vet about anti-anxiety meds. They are inexpensive, safe and have little to no sedative effects. Good luck. -- Dr. MItch

Mitchell Spindel, DVM, Animal Ark Veterinary Hospital

Dr. Spindel earned his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Oklahoma State University. He practiced in Syracuse, New York before he and his wife and children relocated to beautiful North Carolina. Dr. Spindel is a past President of the Forsyth County Veterinary Medical Association. He is the veterinarian for Sci-Works in Winston-Salem, NC and is active with the Forsyth Humane Society, Animal Adoption and Rescue Foundation and Greyhound Friends.

Animal Ark Veterinary Hospital

 

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