Community Chat

[pommom]

First of all, please know that I am an avid animal lover, have volunteered in no-kill shelters, give on a monthly basis to Tabby's Place and take my cats in for their regular annual exams or as the need arises. I provide them with toys, the best in pet food, a cat tree, and medical attention.

In all of my years of being surrounded by critters - horses, pigs, dogs, cats, ducks, rabbits growing up - I have never felt this way:

I simply do not feel the love for one of my cats. I have posted several times on this board regarding his neediness. I've tried and tried to warm up to him. Mind you, I would NEVER neglect or mistreat him - I truly love animals. It's just that I'm not crazy in love with this cat. Just not feeling it.

He is needy, cries all the time - and I do mean all of the time - and plops himself down in my path as I walk from room to room. This concerns me because I don't want either one of us to get hurt. He has been like this since day one.

He stretches out in my small kitchen and I'm constantly volleying for balance to keep from tripping on him or spilling food on him. I gently take my foot and pet him to quiet him down while he's begging for attention. My vet told me to stop doing this, but if I don't the crying gets louder.

I don't have peace at home with him. He is high maintenance and really doesn't give me comfort. He is very loving - but too clingy for me.

His litter mate is THE perfect cat. She's loving, a great lap cat (which he is not) and pretty much tends to herself. I am very mindful to give them both equal time and affection.

Every morning we have a grooming routine. I brush both cats and they love it! I whisper sweet nothings in his ear to let him know that he is special in the hopes that he'll calm down, relax and simply enjoy our time together.

I just can't see living the rest of my years with this cat. The thought of placing him is unthinkable - and yet...

I've had these two for a little over 2 years and my feelings haven't changed for him.

Any words of wisdom?