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How do I convince new cat to enjoy being outside.

2 replies

stripeyknickersspottysocks · 06/05/2010 13:57

2 months ago we got a 5 month old cat/kitten from a rescue. Kept it in for a couple of weeks and then unlocked the cat flap. Now every other cat I've ever had at this point as gone out like a shot and been fine.

This one has never made any attempt to go out. So I've taken her outside and stayed out with her trying to play with her, reassure her. She'll shoot straight back inside through the catflap unless I lock it. If she can't get back in then she just cowers under the guineapig hutch and refuses to move.

For the past few days I've chucked her outside every afternoon. She's currently under the hutch and not looking happy.

I'm getting fed up of emptying the cat litter tray especially as although she wees in the tray she will only poo by the side of the tray. Though the dog helps by eating the cat poo.

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RockSolidLabourSeat · 06/05/2010 17:12

Some cats don't like to pee and poo in the same tray so you could put down another one to solve the immediate problem.

I don't think that forcing her out will work as she'll begin to associate being outside with bad experiences - not good to get into the habit. Not a good idea to lock her out at this stage, she needs to know she can get back in if she needs to flee from other cats, unknown dangers etc.

I would just begin leaving the door open when you are in the house and waiting for the natural curiosity to kick in. If you are going out for gardening etc. she might start to follow you out. In terms of toileting - make an area of loose soil/compost outside and mix a little urine soaked litter with it.

It might take a while to sort this out but HTH.

stripeyknickersspottysocks · 06/05/2010 18:40

Thanks, the second tray is a good idea. Duh!

OK, will stop locking her out as well. Will leave the door open more and hope she starts getting curious.

Thanks.

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