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I don't know the status of the relationship you have with your roommate, but she needs to understand that a happy and contented cat needs more attention than she is willing to provide (apparently). The 2 main problems of spraying/urinating and poor diet are easily remedied (neutering and better food). But being left home alone for long periods of time is another matter. It seems your roommate doesn't understand felines very well, or hasn't committed to her pet as much as she should. Either way, you might (tactfully) suggest she find the cat another home, or make some serious changes in her attitude towards her pet.
This may sound a bit harsh, but too many people consider a pet a possession that can be ignored when they're inconvenient. You're roommate may not be like that, but she needs to step up and take better care of her cat, or find someone else who will.
And bless you for doing what you can to help the cat.
ITA!
You can point out that the litter box will smell much better after he is neutered. I can't imagine having an un-neutered cat indoors with that stinky pee! He will not be as destructive either (though obviously he will need mental and physical stimulation)!
I don't know the status of the relationship you have with your roommate, but she needs to understand that a happy and contented cat needs more attention than she is willing to provide (apparently). The 2 main problems of spraying/urinating and poor diet are easily remedied (neutering and better food). But being left home alone for long periods of time is another matter. It seems your roommate doesn't understand felines very well, or hasn't committed to her pet as much as she should. Either way, you might (tactfully) suggest she find the cat another home, or make some serious changes in her attitude towards her pet.
This may sound a bit harsh, but too many people consider a pet a possession that can be ignored when they're inconvenient. You're roommate may not be like that, but she needs to step up and take better care of her cat, or find someone else who will.
And bless you for doing what you can to help the cat.
Thank you for your advice. I was really concerned when I saw his litter box. But at the same time, I wasn't quite sure whether I was just overreacting. I will try and talk to her when she comes back from her trip.
I'd definitely leave her some of the literature, or print out the web site of any local place you find.
What I'd do is put down a water dish and she may keep it up. I'd also mention the cat had diarrhea and you gave him the same food as your cats and it cleared up. You said she doesn't mind spending on him, so she might be open to switching - especially if it smells better. Has she had a cat before? Maybe she just doesn't know anything about cats. It doesn't sound like it.
No, I don't think she's ever had a cat before. But she mentioned her family had a dog growing up. Maybe she doesn't think cats need as much attention as dogs do? Anyway, I was scheduled to help out at a local shelter this weekend, so when I am there, I will definitely get some helpful flyers and information.
You can point out that the litter box will smell much better after he is neutered. I can't imagine having an un-neutered cat indoors with that stinky pee! He will not be as destructive either (though obviously he will need mental and physical stimulation)!
I will definitely tell her that. I've noticed how his litter box smells worse than my cat's even though I'm cleaning both every day. I didn't know it actually has something to do with him not getting fixed. That's interesting to know.
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