How Do I Deal With A Clingy Cat?

Question

My cat Meeko is 14 years old. When she was three, we put her outside because she had a bladder infection but I loved her so much that my family did not want to put her to sleep. She survived outside for ten years until we decided to put my other cat outside and she began to run away. So we made the decision to bring her into the house.

For the first few months she was avoidant, even nasty and violent. We put her on Prozac, which didn't seem to help matters much, and finally we took her off it. Since then she has reverted back to her old, sweet personality, but she has been clinging to me like you wouldn't believe. She is always around me, always wanting to climb on my lap, always walking in front of the computer screen when I'm on the computer, and always bugging me at dinner.

I'd like for the behaviour to stop. How do I deal with it?

Answer 1

I have a young male cat who quite literally thinks I'm his momma- and he will constantly beg for attention and try to get into my lap. That's when I give him a good hug, then let him go. He stays down for a little while!

Answer 2

I love my kitties, and I think it's so sweet when they won't leave me alone... however, sometimes enough is enough!!!  This is how I deal with it.

I grab that kitty and hold him in a big bear hug.  As I'm holding him, I say "Oooooh, GOOD KITTY... such a GOOD BOY!!!" and rock back and forth as I'm gently squeezing him in my arms.

Cats hate this.  They get very annoyed (and for good reason).  The cat will struggle to get out of your arms, and run away.

A few hours later, they'll be purring, trying to get into your lap. They love us... what can we do?  But at least it keeps them away for a little while.

Answer 3

Make up your mind...if she was human she'd accuse you of giving her mixed signals.  Cats crave stability, and you've taken her out of the home she knew for 10 years (outside).  Of course she's feeling insecure and looking for comfort!  Have a heart and give her time to adjust...it's difficult to change your life after 10 years, especially if you're a cat!

Answer 4

Perhaps she is ill or perhaps she is uncertain if and when you will decide to throw her out again.

She should see a vet and make sure everything is OK.

You should also think about how you and your family have been caring for your cats and perhaps you will realize that you have been negligent pet owners.