Sporadic Attacking Cat

[Freedom]

I was going to suggest separating them, at least for a time.

But also, treat them the same. You say you are now letting Cuddles out of the house now and then for a "breather." But you don't mention letting Spazz out. And unless the back yard is fenced, and you or boyfriend is out there watching them, I wouldn't encourage you to let either of them out.

Keep them indoors and separated. Cuddles could even have the entire house except one bedroom and Spazz could have one bedroom. It may be that Spazz just needs a smaller area to contend with and she is constantly on high alert with such a large space. I know, the condo was small. Define "large space" in spazz's terms, not in our terms. And Spazz isn't sharing HER definition, so it is a mystery to work on. Yeah, in one bedroom it means she isn't going to see you as much. But start by thinking of this as a temporary measure.

Also, after Spazz has been separated for a few days and especially if she is showing signs of calming down, then let her out in the rest of the house only when you are home, and the minute she acts up, back in the bedroom she goes, like a "time out," but for the evening. It doesn't sound like she has had much negative reinforcement of her acting out (although that could just be that you didn't write it up, which I understand. It is hard to write it all.)

I hate to see her put to sleep, and you sound like you want to find something that works. Maybe others will also have suggestions. Best of luck~!

[Catty1]

Thanks everyone! I copied and pasted the responses here and sent them to my friend. She misses Spazz snuggling in her bed at night, but has done the separating thing, and it is working a lot better.

Even now, Spazz might jump on Cuddles, but not as badly. She is thinking the move really set Spazz off, although she was like this before.

So...another kitty life saved - which my friend would have done only as a very very very last resort.....and even then....

thank you all so much!