Purrs In Our Hearts - Cat Forum UK

Cat General => Our cats stories => Topic started by: jezebel on August 11, 2018, 14:39:50 PM

Title: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 11, 2018, 14:39:50 PM
After our sweet little Bass went to the Bridge at the end of June, OH and I felt there was a cat-shaped hole - in fact, a ninja-shaped hole - in our lives, so today we brought home Bruce. He's a lovely, friendly nine-year old boy and - as you can probably see from the photo - a tripod.

He'll be in the spare room for a few days, and then it's a controlled introduction to our bonkers 17-year old tabby. She's not used to cats, and didn't even like her sister, so it could be interesting.
Here's the new boy:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Misa on August 11, 2018, 15:20:23 PM
WELCOME HOME BRUCE.... HE IS GORGEOUS
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Lyn (Slugsta) on August 11, 2018, 16:48:11 PM
:welcome: Bruce. I have a soft spot for black panthers and tripods, so this hansum lad scores full points!  :Luv2:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on August 11, 2018, 18:45:48 PM
Aww, good on you for giving a disabled cat a home, they can struggle to find a home, never mind being black.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Liz on August 11, 2018, 19:36:32 PM
Oh 2 of my favourite cat attributes - black and a tripod, the Clan is currently led by a 3 legged tabby he inherited that mantle from his black brither.

he is rather stunning and I am sure he will fit right in :)
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Rosella moggy on August 11, 2018, 21:17:24 PM

What a stunning black fella you are Bruce!!

 :catluv:

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Judecat (Paula) on August 12, 2018, 06:53:30 AM
Shouldn't that be cat-tributes Liz? :evillaugh:

What a lovely boy he is.  :welcome: to your new home and Purrs Bruce. :Luv:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 12, 2018, 10:24:56 AM
Bruce says thanks for all the welcomes.
He survived his first night okay. He's been using his litter tray properly (apparently he had some issues with peeing outside the box, so we got him a big corner one which is supposed to be easier for him to turn around in). He's found a favourite spot on the cat tree already, and I've discovered he's very playful - and fast!
He's REALLY difficult to photograph, though, because he just won't stay still long enough, plus being black it's hard to get any contrast, but here's one of his lovely face - he looks a bit worried but he's fine.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Lyn (Slugsta) on August 12, 2018, 12:07:50 PM
I have the same problem photographing my 2 panthers!
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on August 12, 2018, 16:24:05 PM
Oh Jezebel - you decided to get him!!    :wow:  Hiya, Bruce!!   :welcome:

So lovely.  He's very handsome.   :Luv2:  sounds as though he's settling very well.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 12, 2018, 16:49:43 PM
Oh Jezebel - you decided to get him!!    :wow:   
He was rather irresistible!
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on August 12, 2018, 17:30:46 PM
 :Luv2:  I can tell.   :Luv:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Frances on August 12, 2018, 18:30:31 PM
Hello Bruce, what a handsome chap you are :Luv:.  So pleased you couldn’t resist him jezebel :wow:.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Misa on August 12, 2018, 23:01:57 PM
GREAT PIC AND BLACK CATS SO HARD TO GET PICS OF
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on August 13, 2018, 07:12:37 AM


Morning Bruce.  Just wanted to say "Hi"   :Luv2:

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: dawnf on August 13, 2018, 15:09:30 PM
he is lovely, what is his story?
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 13, 2018, 16:32:15 PM
Not sure of his early years, Dawn. He was rehomed by Foal Farm ages ago but started peeing inappropriately and was returned in March. The only peeing problem he had once he was back at Foal was missing the litter tray a bit, which might be down to balance issues. So far he's been okay with us - although it's early days. If he starts again I'll do my best to find out the cause.


Poor lad had a bit of an upset tummy this morning - probably stress and strange food.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Misa on August 13, 2018, 20:42:28 PM
I AM SURE BRUCE WILL BE FINE ONCE HE FULY SETTLES IN.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on August 14, 2018, 06:43:26 AM


How is Bruce this morning ?  Hope his tummy has settled a bit. 


Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 14, 2018, 07:27:12 AM
Yes, he's much better today, thanks. It was my fault, I tried him on some good quality food when he'd been used to Felix, he's back on Felix now and ravenous.
But I don't think he understands how to use a Kicker;
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on August 14, 2018, 07:39:09 AM


Lukk - if'n he wants to use it as a chin-rest, that's up to him.  Looks to me like he's just laying claim to it:  "S'mine."   ;) :evillaugh:

Glad to hear he's feeling better this morning, bless him.   :)



Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 14, 2018, 08:04:07 AM
We let him wander about the house last night and he met his new sister, which went a lot better than I thought it would. They just stared at each other across the room, then Drum went back to her bed and Bruce flopped on the floor and lay there looking at her from several feet away. Neither seemed stressed, and Drum eventually turned her back on him and went to sleep.

When he went back to his room, she came over and sniffed the floor where he'd been lying. I'm trying hard not to humanise her but she really did look a bit peed off!
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on August 14, 2018, 08:07:16 AM


Oooooo that sounds like it went well. 

 :shy: :shy:  I'm all for a bit of hoomanizing, me.  I blame Jonny Morris.   :-[


Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: dawnf on August 14, 2018, 08:24:53 AM
what a cute picture! sounds like a brilliant meeting -  can only dream!!
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 14, 2018, 08:54:13 AM
He's just had another wander downstairs and they both took up the same positions as last night. I even left them alone while I hung out the washing but they didn't move.

I'm cautiously optimistic - they don't seem to be bothered by each other. (Drum looks at him as if she's not quite sure what he is!)
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Lyn (Slugsta) on August 14, 2018, 09:36:32 AM
Sounds as if things are going pretty well Jezebel  ;D
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Judecat (Paula) on August 14, 2018, 12:56:14 PM
Seems as smooth as you could hope for. No hissing and spitting. Well done Drum and Bruce. :Luv2:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Gill (sneakiefeline) on August 14, 2018, 19:58:35 PM
SOUNDS ALL IS GOING WELL.

LUPIN DOESNT UNDERSTAND KICKERS EITHER BUT CHIN RESTS HE DOES

AHH FELIX WAS NEEDED, WELL AT LEAST YOU KNOW NOW AND HE WILL TEACH YOU HOW TO LOOK AFTER HIM AS HE PREFERS AS SOON AS HE CAN  :evillaugh: :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on August 17, 2018, 12:24:19 PM


Can we have a Bruce update, pliss?   ;D


Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 17, 2018, 13:35:39 PM
Well, the news is a bit mixed really.


On the plus side, he and Drum were left alone together yesterday and they were okay. I wasn't sure what I was going to come home to but she was asleep in her bed and he was lying on the floor waiting for dinner. So far he's had no problems using the litter tray and, fingers crossed, there's no sign of any inappropriate peeing. His tummy has settled down too.


Not so good is that he eats ravenously - so fast that he bangs his teeth on the bowl - and he can easily polish two off two sachets and still want more. As he has a history of hyperthyroidism, we took him to the vet on Wednesday and are now waiting for blood results.


Although he's pretty much ignoring Drum and not approaching her, she seems very subdued and has lost weight. It's difficult making sure she has enough to eat with Bruce eating everything in sight, so I've been putting her food next to her bed - it seems to be a Bruce exclusion zone.


I know everything will be fine in a couple of weeks or months but I'm inpatient and want everyone to be relaxed and happy now! Plus I'm worried about his potential health issues and her being unhappy.

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on August 17, 2018, 14:20:30 PM


Aw Jezebel.   :hug:

I think the idea of putting Drum's food next to her bed is a good one, especially if Bruce doesn't venture there.

When will you get the blood tests back?

Its really good they're basically ignoring each other, and that Bruce isn't having any issues with the tray.  Focussing on the positives will help to keep both of them on an even keel, and it's pointless worrying about the health issues until you know what they are.  (and I know - that last bit of advice has got to be the most irritating of all - none of us ever follow it, do we?!   :innocent:)




Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: dawnf on August 17, 2018, 14:32:01 PM
totally agree with you sue, ignoring is brilliant!  hope the blood tests come back ok

 they are so conservative maybe a few treats will encourage her to eat a bit more and as for him, maybe he is just celebrating getting out of gaol!  willow was a total glutton for the first few days with us, eats like a bird now (like a bird but also the odd bird!!)
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Misa on August 17, 2018, 14:39:04 PM
GOOD ADVICE FROM SUE AND HOPE RESULTS ARE OK
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 17, 2018, 15:18:14 PM
The results are in: it's our old friend, hyperthyroidism.


He had one thyroid gland removed a few months ago, but his medical history shows he had tumours on both so I don't know why they weren't both removed (I know it's a tricky op but leaving a tumour isn't much of an option!).


Insurance won't cover this, because it's an ongoing condition. I don't know whether to be angry or sad - a bit of both, perhaps.


At least when he gets treated he'll calm down and be a lot happier.

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: dawnf on August 17, 2018, 15:21:31 PM
oh no, I'm so sorry to hear that can't really offer any advice, I wonder if foal farm would let you know which vet so you could at least talk about the last operation and why it was done that way
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 17, 2018, 15:45:49 PM
Sadly we have lots of experience of this - Bass had it twice.


I know who the vet is, I will try and contact him - we might need to take Bruce back there as we really can't afford our own vet's prices!
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on August 17, 2018, 16:11:57 PM


Ach, no!  Understandable, and very very sad.  What a shame Foal Farm hadn't picked up on that.  Such a disappointment for you and for Bruce.   :doh: :doh:



Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on August 17, 2018, 18:59:57 PM
Sorry to hear he has hyper-t - he is very young to have it, are they sure of his age?
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 17, 2018, 21:22:14 PM
Sorry to hear he has hyper-t - he is very young to have it, are they sure of his age?
Our vet said exactly the same thing. Bruce is quite grey for a nine-year old but, like us, they're all different and there's no way of knowing for sure.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Judecat (Paula) on August 17, 2018, 21:58:09 PM
I am so sorry to hear about the Hyper T, I assume you are trying the plug ins and Pet Remedy spray as well. Merlin took ages to stop eating a pouch in a few bites, he has slowed down now but still bullies the other cats off of their food. :shify:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 17, 2018, 22:05:13 PM
Yep, had the plug-ins going a few fday before he arrived.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Judecat (Paula) on August 17, 2018, 23:14:00 PM
I think I must have been very lucky. Nothing left in my repertoire to suggest.  Sorry Jezebel. :hug: :hug: :hug: I just went through huge amounts of food until Merlin learned that he didn't have to eat everything in sight before it was taken away, he still eats faster than the others and eats about three times what they do.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Misa on August 18, 2018, 00:43:19 AM
SO SORRY BRUCE HAS HYPER T, WISH I COULD SUGGEST SOMETHING BUT MY MEMORY HAS BEEN ERASED ON THIS

SENDING BRUCE LOADS OF LOVE
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: CarolM (Wendolene) on August 18, 2018, 01:14:40 AM
So sorry to hear that the gorguss Bruce has hyper-T.  Have you thought of asking Foal Farm if they will foot the bill for his op ( if that's what's needed), or at least contribute towards it?  Although you knew you he had a history of the condition you didn't know you were going to be hit with a big bill so soon and may not have adopted him had you known. That's what I would be telling them anyway. I know you're smitten with him (who wouldn't be  :Luv2: ) and wouldn't dream of letting him go now, but it could help to focus their minds if they think there's a chance that you might return him.   :sneaky:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 18, 2018, 13:15:32 PM
Yep, we've told Foal about this. I said exactly that: if we'd known Bruce was sick, we might not have agreed to adopt him - at least not until he was better. They need to speak to their vet and he's on holiday until the end of the month.
Now our other cat is unwell. She frightened the life out of me this morning by straining to poo (this was while wallking around the house). Then she collapsed and started panting. She almost looked like she was in labour! I got on the phone to the emergeny vet, who was great and got me the first appointment at 9. No clue what's wrong with her - she's a lot better now but I'm taking her back on Monday for some blood tests.
I'm thinking of having my salary paid directly to the vet's, then at the end of each month they can just give me back anything that's spare!

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Judecat (Paula) on August 18, 2018, 14:33:27 PM
Oh Jezebel, any indication of the problem? Sending loads of hugs and purry headbutts from my five.

Paula xxx
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 18, 2018, 15:21:00 PM
Thanks Paula. No indication of anything, she's been vomiting a lot recently and was on tablets which really helped. She's back on them now.

 All the vet could find today was some inflammation at the back of her mouth. She's not even constipated, so I don't know why she was straining. I'm worried about her, if blood tests show nothing, she'll have to have a scan.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on August 18, 2018, 15:45:33 PM


Ye Gods, Jezebel.  Not raining but pouring.  Am gutted to hear Drum isn't well.   Sending soothing vibes for her and Bruce, both


Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Liz on August 18, 2018, 17:30:20 PM
On the hyper T front he is in a good place as you have the experience, but nit the best start and they should have monitored his bloods a little better hope they will share some of the cost

Hoping Drum is just off colour with the change in the weather

If you need tablets do let me know as we have 100 felimezole at 2mg up for grabs still in date up for grabs, and we are off to the vet with Maverick for blood tests on Tuesday as we think he is hyper t but he will start on 5mg if he is then move down once stable happy to offer them your way - its 3 months worth of tablets


Sending vibes for
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Misa on August 18, 2018, 18:01:29 PM
SO SORRY SO MANY CAT PROBS, AFRAID FOAL FARM AS FAR AS I REMEMBER DIDNT HAVE A GOOD REPUTATION AND THEY SHOULD FOOT THE BILL AS THEY MUDT HAVE KNOWN
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on August 18, 2018, 18:06:45 PM
I hope they can offer something, and fingers crossed it's nothing serious for Drum
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Lyn (Slugsta) on August 18, 2018, 21:20:38 PM
I hope they can offer something, and fingers crossed it's nothing serious for Drum

Seconded!
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 19, 2018, 10:31:52 AM
Liz: thanks for the offer. Unfortunately Bruce's levels are extremely high (134) so vet wants to start him on a higher dose.

Misa: I've been volunteering there for years and I wasn't aware of any reputation. Like all rescues, they are limited by time and money. They do their best but not everything is perfect all the time.

Anyway, now for some good news.

Drum is back to her old self! I'm still taking her for blood tests tomorrow but she's eating well again and there's been no vomiting - and no repeat of yesterday's alarming behaviour.

Before Bruce arrived I bought a new type of Feliway plug in - Feliway Friends - which I put next to Drum's bed. On Friday I wondered if maybe it had been this and not Bruce that was affecting her mood so I switched it off. Forty-eight hours later, she's her old self, chatting to us, having tummy tickles on the sofa and even acknowledging Bruce's presence.

And the big news is, they had breakfast together this morning. I watched from upstairs and they were fine - even swapped bowls half-way through.

Things feel a lot better. I now just need to get Bruce sorted and for Drum to have a clean bill of health.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Frances on August 19, 2018, 11:04:38 AM
And the big news is, they had breakfast together this morning. [snip] Things feel a lot better. I now just need to get Bruce sorted and for Drum to have a clean bill of health. 
Really pleased that they are getting on so well.  Fingers crossed that Drum's bloods are okay and that Bruce's hyper T starts to get under control.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Liz on August 19, 2018, 12:34:37 PM
What a good set of news after the wobbles and scares  ;D

Sometimes the plug ins can have various effects and not all good - I now use Lavender human ones and all seem to like it -the human thinks of her Granny's so a bonus all round and we have a smell we can all live with


I know that like all rescues there are challenges but I know several rescues on Facebook who deal with Foal farm and only good reports or they wouldn't use them and they are very well supported which I think always is a good sign
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Lyn (Slugsta) on August 19, 2018, 17:00:15 PM
I am so glad that Drum seems very much better - and that she and Bruce are getting on OK.  ;D
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Misa on August 19, 2018, 19:56:26 PM
GREAT THINGS ARE GOING BETTER
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 21, 2018, 14:21:45 PM
Drum's blood tests are clear.  :wooooo:


Only her "early stage" kidney disease (which she's had for about three years now) showed up. She has to get her weight checked in a couple of weeks (she's lost a bit of weight recently) but that's all.


Bruce started on the Vidalta last night, so fingers crossed he can tolerate it and not need anything else - like a  :censored: expensive operation!
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on August 21, 2018, 14:31:34 PM


YAY!!! That's SUCH good news.   :wow: :wow: :narna dance:

Got ma fingies crossed for Bruce, too, bless his paws. 


Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Judecat (Paula) on August 21, 2018, 16:06:30 PM
Really good news on both fronts. :narna dance:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 22, 2018, 12:09:54 PM
Got home yesterday and fed them both, went upstairs for 10 minutes and came down to a huge puddle of something on the floor.  :sick: I say "something" because when I mopped it up, it had no colour and no smell. However, it couldn't have been anything other than cat pee. (Bruce was skulking nearby.)


OH found another puddle on the kitchen floor this morning. :(


Oh dear, I thought Bruce was doing well, so I don't know what brought this on. He's not spraying, so this isn't behavioural - or is it?
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on August 22, 2018, 13:48:01 PM
Glad Drum’s tests are clear – I did have one cat so stressed when I tried to introduce another cat that he was sick, so hopefully it was just that. Fingers crossed Bruce tolerates Vidalta. I know the operation might seem expensive, but as he is young, would it not work out cheaper in the long run? My old cat Buster used to wee on the floor when he had a UTI, would be worth getting a urine sample tested. He was also very fussy about litter trays, at one point I had 4 cats, 5 trays and still came home to a wee on the floor – clumping litter was the best for him.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 24, 2018, 11:35:16 AM
Exclusive photo of first contact!



Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Frances on August 24, 2018, 16:18:41 PM
So far so good ;D

Any more puddles?
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on August 25, 2018, 16:40:42 PM
Yes, unfortunately, there have been a few more puddles.  :sick:
I'm hoping that when the Vidalta kicks in, he won't drink so much and this might affect how often and where he pees. He had a urine test a couple of weeks ago and was fine. The vet's surgery gave me some Zylkine capsules to try on him. I know it's still early days but I so want him to feel happy and relaxed, I'll try anything.

Found out on Thursday that Drum has a UTI! When the vet rang in the week with her test results, I assumed these included the urine test but alas, no. I suppose it would explain her low mood and lack of appetite. Anyway, the antibiotic injection she had last Saturday seems to have sorted that because she's fine now. Getting her checked again next month, to be on the safe side.

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: maryas on September 07, 2018, 12:55:12 PM
OH SARA, AFTER OUR PM'S I THOUGHT I HAD BEST CATCH UP ON YOUR THREAD AS IT WOULD BE EASIER FOR YOU NOT TO EXPLAIN  AGAIN ABOUT YOUR 2 LITTLE DARLINGS.

O.M.G. I BET YOUR WORST PATIENT IS THEIR DAD, HE WILL BE SO UPSET. YOU BOTH DESERVE SOME GOOD NEWS SOON :hug: :hug:

MAYBE DRUM IS FEELING CRAP BECAUSE HE HAS REALISED THAT EVEN THOUGH HIM AND BASS WERE NOT BEST OF BUDDIES BUT HE IS NOT COMING BACK NOW YOU HAVE BROUGHT BRUCE HOME.

HER STARAINING REMINDS ME OF BONNIE, THE VET TOLD ME TO PUT EVENING PRIMROSE CAPSULES IN HER FOOD ONCE A WEEK. JUST THE CHEAP ONES AT £1 A TUB AND SNIP THE TOP OFF AND POUR ON HER FOOD. IT WORKED, THE STRAINING STOPPED.

BRUCE HAVING AN OP OR TAKING TABLETS ALL HIS LIFE IS A HARD DECISION AND I HOPE THE VET CAN HELP YOU WITH THAT DECISION IF IT COMES DOWN TO THAT.

STANLEY HAS 2 KICKERS AND HE LOVES THEM THAT MUCH THAT HE GETS THEM OUT OF HIS TOY BASKET ON HIS OWN DURING THE NIGHT. I'M PRETTY SURE I HAVE A PIC OF HIM LEANING HIS HEAD ON IT AS WELL ;) ;) :rofl: :rofl:

I ADORE THE PIC OF THE TIPS OF THEIR TAILS MEETING  :Luv2: :hug:

I AM SURE THERE ARE GOING TO BE SOME VERY GOOD TIMES AHEAD FOR ALL OF YOU.

MARY AND STANLEY XX


Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 07, 2018, 13:28:30 PM
I hope you're right Mary!

Bruce has been on Zylkene which seemed to relax him a little but didn't stop the puddles. I'm now putting puppy pads everywhere!

TBH, I'm not sure who is leaving the puddles. Drum has always been very clean, but someone keeps peeing on the mat at the front door, which is near her bed (and is somewhere I've never seen Bruce go near).

Also, every night someone was peeing on one of the litter tray mats. This wasn't just missing the tray, it was actually peeing on the mat. However, I've left a light on for the last two nights and it hasn't happened again.  :Crazy:

Here's a rare picture of the boy relaxing on the sofa. (He's a very jumpy cat, gawd alone knows what he's been through.)
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: dawnf on September 07, 2018, 13:37:21 PM
not sure if anyone has mentioned the royal canin calm food, I use it for mine and it has been wonderful for restoring the balance at home that was upset when willow arrived
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: maryas on September 07, 2018, 13:50:25 PM
glad he knows where the settee and the cushion is ;)  HE LOOKS TO BE IN A POSITION HE FEELS SAFE IN, HE HASN'T GOT HIS BACK TO THE BACK OF THE SETTEE WATCHING OUT FOR ANYTHING THAT COMES NEAR HIM.

THE ONLY THING STANLEY JUMPS AT IS THE NOISE A POP BOTTLE MAKES WHEN OPENING IT.

DO THEY SHARE A LITTLER TRAY? MAYBE IT'S A CRY FOR SEPERATE ONES?

MARY
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 07, 2018, 14:56:58 PM
No, they have separate trays - although they use each other's sometimes. We got Bruce a big corner tray with space for him to turn around in, given that his balance isn't great.

Bruce has to lean on things when he washes (which is what he's doing in the photo).

He's an odd one though, there are loads of beds and blankets around the house he can lie on but most of the time he's flat out on the hard floor.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 07, 2018, 14:58:01 PM
not sure if anyone has mentioned the royal canin calm food, I use it for mine and it has been wonderful for restoring the balance at home that was upset when willow arrived


Not heard of that, it's worth a try.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: dawnf on September 07, 2018, 15:04:54 PM
https://www.zooplus.co.uk/shop/cats/dry_cat_food/royal_canin_feline_vet_diet/356888

not on commission I promise but I do swear by it and I think desley has had quite good results with her semi feral girls
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 07, 2018, 15:14:10 PM
Thanks Dawn.


Shame there's not a wet food version. Bruce doesn't have dry food because the rescue told us it makes him sick.
I gave him three tiny treats last week and he threw them up 10 minutes later. :sick:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on September 08, 2018, 17:55:43 PM
Yes, I've used it on both my cat and the fosters - although with Lucy, the vet actually suggested Zylkene, but she is really fussy about what we put in her food, which is why we tried the dry, it's the same ingredient in both. Shame he can't tolerate treats, the calming treats also work well. My neighbour did try the calming spot on treatments to stop her cat plucking his fur out when she went away, but that didn't do much.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 08, 2018, 18:15:48 PM
I've got some Zylkene coming next week, today I tried the spot on treatment but so far I can't see any difference.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on September 13, 2018, 13:51:39 PM
How's Bruce doing Jezebel?  Any progress?
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 14, 2018, 08:55:44 AM
Have bought another litter tray for downstairs, which he uses so there are no puddles anywhere else now.

Thing is, I really don't want it there long term - it's right next to the sofa by the front door (our house is really tiny!) - but I don't know how to wean him off it. I've tried only leaving it there during the day when we're not there, and overnight, but if it's not there he will blatantly pee on the doormat right in front of us! We now have to watch him and if he heads towards the doormat grab him and usher him upstairs to his proper tray.

It's not even that he doesn't like going upstairs, one of his favourite spots is in the bathroom doorway, another is on the landing. Sometimes he spends the whole night there.

The rest of the time he's a sweet, affectionate thing who loves a fuss and will jump up on the sofa for cuddles.

He's back at the vet's today for blood tests to see if the Vidalta is working (I'm not sure it's making much difference).

In other news, Drum is 18 today!
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on September 14, 2018, 09:35:40 AM


Just a thought, but it worked for us - could you try moving the litter tray, and in its place, putting down some dishes with food treats in them? 

When Barley was peeing on our armchair and spare bed, that's what we did.  We cleaned them both with enzymatic cleaners, then began leaving down dishes of food.  We may have just got lucky, but it did the trick. 



Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 14, 2018, 10:30:43 AM
Great idea - it's worth a try, thanks.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on September 14, 2018, 12:03:52 PM


Fingers crossed!   :)  C'mon, Bruce!  You can do this!!

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on September 14, 2018, 12:49:40 PM
Hmm, how many trays did you have for them before putting the extra one down? Personally, I’d rather have a litter tray there than him keep weeing on the doormat. 
 
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Misa on September 14, 2018, 16:55:52 PM
I AGREE WITH DESLEY AND KNOW ITS A PAIN BUT BETTER THAN HAVING USE THE MAT
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 14, 2018, 17:40:26 PM
There are three trays, including the new one!. Trouble is, it's right by the front door - yesterday the post just missed it by an inch!
Also... how can I put this? Bruce's "productions" are on the whiffy side. I mean, they're really bad - chemical warfare standard. :sick:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on September 14, 2018, 20:44:49 PM


Definitely try the fud treats.  :)

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: maryas on September 15, 2018, 14:38:00 PM
THIS LOOKS A GOOD SITE:

https://icatcare.org/advice/problem-behaviour/soiling-indoors

I HOPE DRUM HAD A BRILL 18TH :hug: :Luv2:

MARY
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 15, 2018, 16:26:20 PM
Thanks Mary. Coincidentally, the vet recommended that site to me yesterday.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on September 19, 2018, 06:46:08 AM
How's Bruce doing, Jezebel? 
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 19, 2018, 10:11:12 AM

I'm more and more concerned that he might be a little 'different'.

I know all cats are weird, that's why I love them, but Bruce worries me. He cringes away from you one minute and is purring and rubbing his head on your hand literally seconds later. He lies in the most awkward places  - typical cat thing, I know, but then he cowers and looks terrified of being stepped on if you go near him (but still he lies in doorways and across stairs). And he's so nervy - a car door closing outside, something he hears several times a day, will make him jump. Even normal things like the front door opening or someone just walking into a room can make him flee.

And the inappropriate peeing is another thing. We've tried various combinations of litter trays in different places, and he'll use them but revert to peeing on the mat if there's no tray nearby. Sue, I tried your suggestion of putting a food bowl on the mat where he pees and it did stop him (yay!) until I removed it a few days later (boo!).

And nothing seems to improve or change. He hasn't grown any more confident or relaxed - although he hasn't got any worse, either.

It's nearly six weeks now - is it still to soon to expect things to improve?
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on September 19, 2018, 11:39:31 AM
Quote
It's nearly six weeks now - is it still to soon to expect things to improve?

[/

Poor Bruce, bless him.  In cat terms, sadly, it takes as long as it takes.

When you don't know much of his back history, it's difficult to know what things have been hard-wired into his brain to make him like that. 

In terms of Barley's inappropriate peeing, we used the food trick for a good three or four weeks before taking it away, and in fact we still provide night-time nibbles now as a result of that particular level of bribery and reward.   :-[  But not because she pees any more.  She doesn't bless her.

If it helps, we've had Barley and Malt for coming up to three years next month.  I know they were kittens when we got them, and Bruce is an adult cat, but I sense similarities. 

Barley hates anyone moving about the room if she's on the ground, and she will run as fast as her sleek little legs will carry her.  Malt doesn't.  If Barley can get up high, she's less fearful.  Does Bruce access cat trees or anything like that?  I would imagine he can still jump and use furniture to move around the room.  Barley will also take flight if the front door goes - she springs up, watches closely and then legs it.   Malt doesn't.

We got them both at the same time, they both had the same back history.  They were both terrified semi ferals.  Malt has adapted in many ways better than Barley, yet remains reticent on the cuddles front.  Barley is a real hurley-burley cat when it comes to cuddles and affection, but won't stand her ground like Malt.  Bruce has had a lot of adaptations to make in his life of late, and you're helping him to come to terms with them.   :hug: :hug:

What I'm saying is, you may have to view this as a long haul journey.  I still see marvellous and subtle changes in the gurlies behaviour even after 3 years, though I could wish that in some respects there was miraculous improvement, I'm also kind of resigned tot he fact some aspects of their behaviour may never change, and it's something to which I've got to adapt.

I suspect I will never ever have another sofa whilst ma precious babies are with me, because neither of the gurls can hack change in terms of things being "different" in the house.  Things like getting carpets cleaned, furniture being moved, or me ironing the carpet cos I carelessly got candle wax on the carpet - any and all of those things can set them off.  Bruce is just working out coping strategies for his new position. 

Of course you know all that anyway, and we can tell you love him, and will move mountains to make it work. 

Must admit, I'm a great fan of Zylkene. 

You're right though.  Cats can be weird.   :evillaugh:



size]
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on September 19, 2018, 12:37:08 PM


Sorry Jezebel - going back to what I was trundling on about earlier was whether or not it would be possible to put a couple of cat trees next tot he doorways Bruce likes to hang out by.   Of course, being a cat he'll probably ignore them, but he might feel safer up high, and still be able to "police" the main access points to the house (provided it doesn't interfere with doors opening of course!)

We were laughing day before yesterday - we have so many favoured "bed spots" around the house, including the almost defunct dining room table (can't recall last time we ate a meal sitting at it), the computer chair complete with cat-blankie and the soft memory-foam shower mat which acts as a mattress on the coffee table under the window.  but where was Moray draped full length the other day?  On the second from bottom stair, of course!  :tired:


Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on September 19, 2018, 13:06:07 PM
Sue has put it far better than me, but 6 weeks is nothing – I’ve had Lucy nearly 3 years and she still reacts to things like cars outside, me sneezing etc. She rarely goes out on a Friday morning because it is bin day. Randomly, despite being spooked by cars she can’t see etc, thunder and fireworks don’t bother her. We suspect she was locked out a lot in her previous life as she reacts badly to the door being shut, I’ve seen her fly in because the neighbour shut their door and she heard it. She’s the opposite with affection, one minute she can be loving attention, then you’ll get either teeth or claws! And she’ll rub your legs and feet, but that doesn’t mean she wants you to stroke her back! What made a massive difference with her was Feliway, I don’t need to check the diffuser, I can tell by her behaviour when it needs changing. Certain fears may lessen, but with his age they may never go completely unfortunately. I think when using deterrents like food for inappropriate peeing, you need longer than a few days to break the habit.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 19, 2018, 13:44:36 PM
Sue and Desley: your replies really helped, thank you!

I'm can see I'm expecting too much from the poor boy, and you're right - six weeks is nothing. I can be impatient without realising it sometimes, but I'm just impatient to see Bruce settled and happy. He's been through a lot, bless him, and he hasn't really asked for much. (Best of all, he accepted straightaway that Drum is top cat!)

Will try the food bowls again, but for longer. Will keep him on the Zylkene. He started his higher strength Vidalta last night, so I'm hoping his levels will be normal soon and he feels better.

Definitely in it for the long haul, he's a lovely lad!

BTW, there's a cat tree upstairs, which he's explored the lower levels of but isn't too fussed about. There's no room for one downstairs, unfortunately.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on September 19, 2018, 14:34:59 PM


Lord, I know the feeling all too well.   :evillaugh:   :hug: :hug:

It's really tempting to want things to progress at our own pace, and to be frustrated when it doesn't, or to be convinced we're doing something wrong (and usually we are from the cat's perspective, we just have to try and figure out what that is - not always easy!)   

We nearly took the gurlies back to the shelter after 3 weeks because we didn't think we'd be able to get anywhere with them.

We'd tried to get them into a cat carrier to get them to the vet for their vacs, and OH nearly lost an eye, and we both ended up with lacerations up and down our hands, arms, neck and faces.   :doh: :doh:

We just didn't realise how much we'd taken on, or how to measure progress.  I feel like I've moved on a whole lot in terms of what they've taught us since then, and I still know next to nowt!   :rofl: :rofl:

I would stress too that the gurlies weren't vicious cats (though we nicknamed them The Velociraptors for a spell.  ;))  They were terrified cats. 

And scaredy cats can react in all manner of challenging and creative ways to get our attention and help us to help them put things right.   It may not feel like that's what they're doing, but they are.   

And sometimes the most innocuous of events can send them hurtling right back to DANGER in their mind's eye.  It may not be apparent to us - like Desley said about sneezing - but to them it's a signal - a trigger their very survival is dependent on them doing a specific thing.  Whatever their "thing" is.   :shify:  (we really should have a peeing cat emoji, Tan)

As for the cat trees - if you don't have space, you don't have space.  You can only do so much within the limits of your average home.  [Now you're gonna tell us you live in a 7 bed mansion with acres of grounds.....?]  :evillaugh:

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: dawnf on September 19, 2018, 14:47:22 PM
when tilly was small she got into the habit of peeing on our bed, unfortunately we had to start shutting her out of the bedroom until the habit was broken, which it was but it was a few weeks before we could let her back in again

if I had had a place to take willow back to I would have done it without a doubt, oh on the other hand!  anyway she has come around nicely now but still has the odd flash when you have to stay clear!  as she had passed through the hands of several members of my family I know just why she was so difficult!!
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 19, 2018, 14:54:27 PM

As for the cat trees - if you don't have space, you don't have space.  You can only do so much within the limits of your average home.  [Now you're gonna tell us you live in a 7 bed mansion with acres of grounds.....?]  :evillaugh:



 :rofl: Oh, I wish - Bruce could have his own suite then, and I'd have staff to clean up all the pee!


Nah, we rent a terraced Victorian cottage (which means tiny and annoying). I'd love to move somewhere bigger but there's not much on the rental market round here we can afford.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on September 19, 2018, 15:32:23 PM


 :evillaugh: 

The cottage sounds lovely - I grew up in something similar.  We were fortunate that we lived there for approaching 18 years, but for my Mum it was frustrating - Landlord wouldn't spend any money.  property was damp, draughty, no kitchen to speak of, and no central heating or double glazing, but as kids, we adored it.  It was a dream of a place.  Quirky, unique and "home."   :)

Renting of course limits your options with pet companions.  Wouldn't it be lovely if you could win the lottery and buy your dream home?   ;D  Sometimes, I give myself different imaginary lottery sums and then scout the property websites for likely purchases.   :rofl:

Dawn, just think how differently things might have ended for Willow if you hadn't gritted your teeth and been an absolute star for holding on.   :hug: :hug:

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on September 20, 2018, 13:09:27 PM
Yes, it is hard not to be impatient due to wanting them to be happy, it can be a tricky balance because we just want them to realise, but sometimes pushing has the opposite effect, which then makes us feel really bad. And you have the issue that he has inappropriate weeing as well as ‘quirks’. At least he has a loving owner willing to put the time in, things will improve with time, but it just might not be what you get with a cat you’ve had from a well adjusted background. Hope the Zylkene and his meds help too. I did nearly take Buster back because of his weeing, I’d been away shortly after getting him, and he wee’d on something different everyday for a week, the last day I smelt it as I walked in, but couldn’t figure it out till I went to bed and found a damp patch!! It was only because we were waiting on test results I didn’t, he improved after he became an only cat, but never fully stopped - a lot of his was when he couldn’t get his own way. He was hard work the entire time I had him, but I knew that he would live his life out in rescue if I didn’t persevere (he wasn’t up for homing due to a supposed liver issue, it’s only because I know the rescue), and when he developed an unusual health condition, I’m not sure he would have had as long as he did if he’d still been with the rescue. Bruce would likely be the same, between his disability, health and behavioural issues and colour. 
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 30, 2018, 12:28:32 PM
Desley, we thought Bruce would likely live out his life in rescue too - that was half the reason we took him. You're spot on: what with his three legs, his hyperthyrodism and the random peeing - on top of being black and nine years old, AND he'd been returned once already, he wouldn't be most people's first choice.

Anyway, I'm cautiously optimistic that things are improving a little. We're still leaving a bowl of food on his favourite peeing place and so far this has worked. In fact, we forgot to put the bowl down yesterday when we went out but it was fine.
He now has a semi-permanent litter tray in the cellar (which we've renamed the Bat Cave because he likes to hang out down there!).

He seems more relaxed and is finally using his new bed. He's also become a sofa cat will sometimes sit with us in the evening.

Also, I have a suspicion that it's Drum who's been peeing outside Bruce's upstairs litter tray. I thought he was just missing the tray but it happened again yesterday evening and I'm pretty certain he hadn't been upstairs. I'm not sure if it bothers him, though, cos I've seen him using her tray.
I never thought I'd find cats' toileting habits so fascinating! :Crazy:
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on September 30, 2018, 13:33:49 PM




Jezebel, can I just say, I think you're making definite progress.  Obviously the upstairs tray is a challenge, but we'll done on tackling, and succeeding at least in part.   :hug:

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on September 30, 2018, 17:23:35 PM
Thank you! It's still early days but it's promising.

I'm learning more about him every day. He has a particular miaow if I stroke him in the wrong place or when I touch his feet (I'm trying to get him used to his feet being touched so I can trim his claws). It's like the whingey noise humans make, a kind of two-sylllable "don't": doe-ent.
We found him licking the concrete floor in the bat cave today. What's that about? (There's nothing on the floor to harm him.)

Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Sue P (Paddysmum) on September 30, 2018, 17:57:39 PM
He may be getting salts from the concrete.

Doe-ent Bruce.   ;)



Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Judecat (Paula) on October 01, 2018, 21:21:29 PM
That was my first thought too Sue, trouble is there will also be lime and that is really toxic so if you can dissuade him that would be a really good idea.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on October 02, 2018, 11:31:10 AM
Oh hell, really?
It's impossible to watch him all the time!
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on October 02, 2018, 16:13:18 PM
Because of his hyper-t, I'd be tempted to get bloods done as it can be an imbalance and supplements would be easier than watching him
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: jezebel on October 02, 2018, 19:24:18 PM
He's having bloods done next Tuesday.
Is he likely to poison himself if he licks concrete?
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: Judecat (Paula) on October 04, 2018, 19:45:57 PM
I would ask the vet if it is poisonous, I don't know how much is 'free' on  the surface, but I would certainly dissuade him.
Title: Re: Say hello to Bruce
Post by: maryas on November 11, 2018, 12:45:26 PM
SO SORRY YOU AIN'T HAVING IT EASY YET :hug:

GOOD LOOK TOUCHING A CAT'S FEET, NOT HEARD OF ONE YET THAT LIKES HAVING THEM TOUCHED.

I HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL STANLEY IS REALLY ASLEEP BEFORE I CAN GET ONE OR 2 OF HIS TRIMMED.  HIS PAWS ARE DONE MORE EASILY, HE DOESN'T MIND ME TOUCHING THEM AND AS THEY ARE SOFTER THAN HIS CLAWS ON HIS FEET I THINK IT'S EASIER.

MARY