I don't think Mr. Magoo is going to work out

[Randi]

catcrazylady, I've been reading all the replies and think you've got great advise. I'm so very sorry that it doesn't work out as you had planned, you did SO much for him!

I'm sure that because he's blind, he feels the need to defend himself - and someone may have hurt him before he came to the shelter - not only other cats. This is probably the reasons for his agression.

Whatever you choose to do, don't feel guilty! You know him best and also what is best for your other cats. As someone has mentioned, medicine could be the solution - at least until you find him a forever home. I really hope you can!! Contacting the media sounds like a great idea, you should take PIF up on her offer!

I wish you all the best solving this very difficult situation!!

Hugs to you - you are one special lady!!

[RedHedd]

CCL my heart goes out to you. You have given Mr. Magoo a good week of trying, but you must put the safety of you and your fur-kids first. Mr. Magoo sounds like he is way over-stimulated by all that is going on. He's been through a lot in a very short period of time - being rescued, having his remaining eye removed and being neutered all within a matter of days.

From reading all the posts, it does sound like he would be better off as an only cat. Taking him back to the shelter is NOT defeat; it's doing what's best for the highest good of all involved here.

I agree, getting the media involved is a terrific idea. I'm sure someone will come forward to give Mr. Magoo the furrever home he deserves.

Whaterver you do, follow you heart. Prayers going out your way that everything for you, all your furkids and Mr. Magoo turns out for the highest good of all.

[Tonya]

I am very sorry to hear about the difficulties with Mr. Magoo. I know that you will make the best decision for him. It sounds like Mr. Magoo may be happier in a less active house, perhaps being the only pet.

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

I'm sooo sorry you're having such difficulties with Magoo. We all had such hopes for him - as I'm sure you did also. However, you should in no way feel guilty for anything. You have done much more than most people would even think of.

I know you're committed to find Magoo a new home, but I'm with SAS in going with the medication in th meantime. Some people think it's a bad thing to medicate, but if it makes everyone all around more comfortable - including the cat - what's the harm? I do remember she used the cream in the ear for Gabe, and possibley on Miley when Ti was around - or was it on Ti? I don't remember, but I do remember that it helped ease a tense situation. At the very least it may make him not mind staying in the cage so much until you find him a new home.

I'm just so sorry. I wish I had more advice, I wish I could take him, I wish I knew someone who could take him, I wish I could help....somehow....

[catcrazylady]

I'm going to try medicating before I take him back to the shelter. I couldn't live with myself if I didn't give every option a chance before I did that. I just hope that what I'm doing is the best for him. Keep praying!

[lizzielou742]

Good luck, CCL. I haven't been posting here for long but I can tell you have a heart that is full of love for all of your babies. You have to make the best decision for them, on their behalf. Try getting him on the news or an a public access channel. Surely you will find someone to take him with a heart as kind as yours.

[sirrahbed]

I went back to see what the drug was that they put Pickles on - it is called Cyproheptadine. It is actually an antihistimine for humans but for cats it lowers testosterone and raises serotonin. Anyway, for Pickles, it has completely stopped not only the spraying, but his aggression in general. No more stalking his sister or pacing and crying.

Cyproheptadine is about $15 a month.
Amitriptyline (Elavil) is an antianxiety drug and runs $10 for three months. (old drug - inexpensive in tab form) I have no idea about the cost of the Ami ear cream.
Fluoxetine (Prozac) is anywhere from $30-over $100 a month depending on the generic or brand name and if they use the veterinarian formulary.
Clomipramine (Clomicalm) which is the same as Ananfranil for humans and this one is about $10-$15 a month but sounds like the one specific for territorial aggression in cats. I *think* it is approved for dogs but used "off-label" for cats.
These prices are based on best price of internet sources. As far as I can find out, all the Ami tablets and the drug Pickles takes are not available as a veterinary drug. Vet drugs are actually much more expensive and I have been told that they have to meet higher standards of approval.
This is all stuff I looked up when we were wondering what to do for Pickles - maybe it will save you some time.

PS - Devon was also worried about "drugging" her kitty - but except for the behavioral improvement - there have been no changes such as sleepiness, clumsiness, etc - things you might expect to see with a "calming" medication.

[leslie flenner]

Debbie! that sounds like a very good idea for mr. magoo! I'm more inclined to think like Richard and others- he, unfortunatly can't have his own room for slow introductions so something else needs to happen- medication is likely the answer! AND, he needs to know who is top cat- owner is top cat- he needs some discipline about who is in charge and what the rules are (I know, he's been told a few times already but he needs it to be repeated- he's blind and going to test boundaries constantly till he understands who's where on the hierarchy!) Well, that's just my guess and I don't have to live with this stress... you need to do what's best for both of you! I'm sure he would be very happy in a single cat home if you can find one! the best to you and I do commend you on your continued efforts! A lot of other people would have (and did) tossed him out! Poor boy and poor you! What's going on with your injury- all ok?

[lat192004]

Hello Catcrazy;
You have been through some tough times with this kitty, and you see he is special. When humans get behavior problems, usually a visit to the doctor with medications will work. Stick with this cat, but get him on something that will help him. Behavioral modifaction on a cat does not work to well. A cat will listen to you, and make up his own mind.When you think he is listening to you, he is really plotting to find a work around to do the opposite of what you told her to do.I just cannot agree to any discipline for a cat.Just give love and more love to Magoo. Cats are independant, and don't really need us at all.The Tomcat I had before Angel one day was scratching the sofa. I saw him do it, and yelled at him and lightly gave him a love tap. I mean I just touched him, that is all!He stopped, but met me around the corner by the kitchen with a relpy, a loud hiss and a hard swat, claws and all!... What we do is welcome a cat into our life, knowing it's a one sided deal...for the cat! Your cat has these same instincts, but has a "handicap". The blindness must have Magoo a bit defensive. Too much stimulation here with the other cats.Since they all live together, and Magoo can't cope, try medications. Ya need to get that kitty chilled a bit. The last resort would be to find Magoo a home where he is the only cat.

Good luck;

Lat-Hawaii