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Over bonding?

16:36:56

Question
I have a dsh black cat that is approximately 8 months old. This cat will rarely leave a room unless I do or will always keep me in her eyesite. She will play with the other cat for brief periods of time. She will fight to get away from my roommate when she tries to hold or pet her. I feel this cat has overbonded with me and need to know if this is really possible and what should be done?
Thanks

Answer
It is possible.  When a cat becomes too dependent on you, they can develop separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior such as failure to use the litter box, howling, and self-mutilation when you aren't home.  Therapy for separation anxiety usually starts with desensitization - force her to be away from you for short periods.  It will be difficult for her to accept, but not unbearable in such short doses.  You gradually lengthen your time away from her until she gets used to it.  Go out for a walk a few times a day, or even close her in a room away from you.  In serious cases, anti-anxiety medications can help.

I wouldn't jump to this conclusion, yet, though.  Many particular breeds of cats are known to form strong attachments to one particular person, and so are individual domestics.  Among the most notorious are the Siamese, the Manx and the Abyssinian.  As long as your kitty doesn't engage in destructive behavior when you're not home, I would just appreciate the special bond you have.