Various Tips #2

My CH kitty Bo was only 3 lbs and was 4 months old when he found me. As soon I took him to the vet he was immediately diagnosed with CH. Since his diagnosis, I have done a number of things to help improve his coordination. I immediately bought a laser pointer. That stimulation alone has given his coordination such a boost. In addition, I keep a basket of toys where he can reach them, knock the basket over and chase after the balls. I also bought this circular toy that has a ball trapped in a track and in the center is a cardboard scratcher that can be refilled. This is what he uses to scratch on and nothing else. Like many other CH kitties he has kept his claws, but the funny part is I am not sure he really understands that he can hurt someone with them because he has never used them to defend himself.

The litter box has been the biggest challenge. I had other cats and bought an expensive automatic litter box. Within a week Bo developed a strong aversion to the litterbox and was defecating on the bathroom floor. I tried almost every type of litter and every type of box out there. The best litter box I have found is a box for small puppies. It has thick solid high plastic sides and a low front for easy access. In addition, for the first few weeks, I used the Cat Attract litter. That, in combination with kitty Prozac, has helped to get him back in the box. The kitty Prozac helped him to adjust to his surroundings better and that was only used for 2 months. Don't waste any money on Feliway, it's a pheromone plug-in that cost $25-40, and had no effect whatsoever (it just stunk up the house).

Please post as well that some vets have told me that because CH cats can be skittish with other animals you should not put them through that stress. I'm here to say that my Bo is one of three of my animals. I have a German Shepard mix dog and a new kitten. Bo has made himself a terrific big brother and the dog helps Bo to clean himself after he uses the litter box. Maybe I am a lucky rare exception, but I give my animals a lot of love and they in turn take care of each other.

I'm sorry I got so long-winded, but Bo is such a special cat and every time I take him to the vet they are amazed at the progress he's made and the things he has accomplished since I first brought him into their office. I know that there are definite adjustments you need to make, but the love these special kitties have to give is well worth it.

Thank you,

Shanon Myers