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Q.: We have a female cat which we took in about three months ago - the mother and the three other kittens were picked up by the local animal refuge, and they have all since then gotten new homes.
The mother was a cat that "was included" when we moved in -an outdoor cat that have never been inside but lived in a woodshed.
Things are generally fine, she is very fond of being petted and seemingly happy and content.
Now and then, however, she gets into what my wife refers to as "the hour of the wolf". It lays its ears back, rushes through the house, and then all its toys are put seriously to use All this is OK.
Unfortunately it has also gotten the bad habit of not letting my wife's potted plants alone, especially the large ones standing on the floor. It overturns them and plays with the dirt. We would like to put an end to that.
Now and then it will take its bowel movements on the carpet (behind the couch) even though it has to litter boxes in different places around the house.
Can this be helped?
A.: I know this will sound like trying to put out a fire by pouring gasoline on it, but actually I think that another cat is what is needed! Preferably a kitten or young cat for your cat to spend some of its surplus energy on/with instead of taking it out on your potted plants.
Some people have - by the way - managed to solve the flower pot problem by placing a stone or something else rather heavy in the bottom of the pot, so that it isn't so easily turned over.
A large part of the problem is that you have got a very lively lady which in other respects is a good thing.
It may be of some consolation to you to know that most cats have a "bully phase" that tends to pass when they are about 1 year old.
As for the periodical problems with bowel movements on the carpet, it may be a sign you should have her neutered soon. At her age it is possible that sexual maturing is beginning, which may account for this problem. If none of this helps, do write again.
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