Cat Prob

Question
I have two cats - Brutus, the gray, tiger-stripe & Fate, the Tortoise Shell.  My first problem is that Fate has a tendency to (since we've had her) randomly pick a spot "near" the litter box to do her #2!  We think we keep the litter boxes clean, but perhaps we don't know what we're doing.  I'm not sure why it is that she does this, but it makes some faces turn a bright red when guests come over & it's happened.

The second problem is with both cats.  They both have an unending desire to eat plants, flowers, etc.  When they do, they always throw up on the floor - Why a cat would continue to eat the plants after he/she keeps throwing up - I can't answer.  Is there some way to keep them from doing it via a spray that doesn't hurt the plant, but makes them taste bad to the cats?

Finally, my last problem is with Brutus.  This cat throws up (hairballs, etc.)  on a weekly basis or so.  Is there anything out there that can treat this issue?  All these problems make it tough to own animals & have guests over, while at the same time, trying to keep the carpet clean.  They always seem to choose the carpet as opposed to the hard-floors - Go figure!

Thanks in advance for your help!
Adam

Answer
Hello Adam.

Problem # 1...You should have 3 litter boxes and scoop the waste out DAILY.  Also, I would recommend try Cat Attract Litter (www.preciouscat.com) as well as Feliway to help curb the inappropriate elimination.

Problem #2...Cats have a tendency to like to chew on things and plants seem to be their favorite even though they can't digest them.  Option 1 is put the plants out of their reach...Option 2 is to get rid of the plants...Option 3 is to spray the plants with Bitter Apple to discourage them from chewing on them.

Problem #3...There are new hairball formula diets which work quite well.  Science diet makes a Hairball Diet for Adults, Seniors and a low-cal variety.  In addition, you can also give them hairball remedy such as Laxatone 2-3 times a week.

Having pets is work and a commitment, but is sounds like you are on the right track.  

GOOD LUCK!
Dr. Fry