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Cat Forum / Health and Behavior / September 2004Severe Nighttime Problem w/ Dorrie
Hi, everyone. Here it is, 72 hours-and-counting without sleep, because-- I have to admit it-- My Dorrie stinks up my bedroom so badly, I just do not sleep. My little angel is a smelly cat! This sleeping arrangement problem is a new problem because (as some group members already know), I "inherited" Dorrie when I moved in with a relative, and the past two summers, she's spent the warm months outside until dawn practically every night. Last autumn, Dorrie and I hadn't yet bonded to the point where inseparability was an issue, but now, whoa, it's like I'm her mom. (She even "milks" my quilt when she first hops into bed with me.) Dorrie is getting very old, so I really do NOT want to choose the option I used last autumn, which was building her a "hut" that consisted of an old armchair around which I constructed 2 X 4's and hung an electric blanket and MUCH insulating material IN THE BASEMENT. It had to be in the basement because the home is a small ranch, and at one time, I actually boarded up the hallway to the bedroom area with a six-foot piece of particleboard...that my "aged" 13 year-old jumped over! You will never know the astonishment I felt when I heard that familiar scratching at my door. It was like I had SuperCat or something. Anyway, I am a lifelong insomniac with a thyroid problem for whom sleep in some decades didn't come naturally at all. I'm 47, feel every bit of it, and love Dorrie almost more than I love life. What am I going to do? If I rebuild her hut down in the basement, will she feel rejected and suffer? But what am I going to do if the smell of nitrogen and gastrointestinal-related gasses continued to keep me from sleeping? I'm so weak this morning, I can hardly move. (I change and wash her two litter boxes every other day.) This is an absolute nightmare. I ADORE my little animal, but she is literally poisoning me. Please help. Hilary > Hi, everyone. Here it is, 72 hours-and-counting without sleep, > because-- I have to admit it-- My Dorrie stinks up my bedroom so > badly, I just do not sleep. My little angel is a smelly cat! I don't know the history here, or what has happened, etc, but usually bad smells mean illness. Has Dorie seen a vet? 13 isn't really that old. Many cats live to upper teens and even 20. My aunt's cats were both just over 20 when they passed and lively as all heck for all but the last year or so of their lives. You could always try nose-plugs. ;)  Signature-- ~kaeli~ If the funeral procession is at night, do folks drive with their lights off? http://www.ipwebdesign.net/wildAtHeart http://www.ipwebdesign.net/kaelisSpace > > Hi, everyone. Here it is, 72 hours-and-counting without sleep, > > because-- I have to admit it-- My Dorrie stinks up my bedroom so [quoted text clipped - 11 lines] > > -- Why the basement? Just close the door to the bedroom and give the cat the rest of the house. If she scratches put somebad apple on the door. If she whines, use earplugs... You will turn into a mental patient without sleep. Bluesman I would say a visit to the vet is most definitely in order. It could be parasites, it could be a sensitive tummy, it could be something worse, and I hope not! You might also consider changing the cat's food to a premium canned food that does not contain mystery meats (rendered dead animals). When I started feeding my cats premium foods, and believe me it is a sacrifice with 11 of them, their health improved dramatically. > Hi, everyone. Here it is, 72 hours-and-counting without sleep, > because-- I have to admit it-- My Dorrie stinks up my bedroom so [quoted text clipped - 34 lines] > > Hilary >From: cowabungie@yahoo.com (Cowa Bungie) > My Dorrie stinks up my bedroom so >badly, I just do not sleep. My little angel is a smelly cat! Cats normally do not smell bad. Have you taken Dorrie to the vet? Lauren ________ See my cats: http://community.webshots.com/album/56955940rWhxAe Raw Diet Info: http://www.holisticat.com/drjletter.html http://www.geocities.com/rawfeeders/ForCatsOnly.html Declawing Info: http://www.wholecatjournal.com/articles/claws.htm Hilary wrote: > Hi, everyone. Here it is, 72 > hours-and-counting without sleep, > because-- I have to admit it-- My Dorrie > stinks up my bedroom so badly, I just do > not sleep. My little angel is a smelly > cat! My intention here is not to offend, but to help, and I hope you take what I say here in the spirit with which it is intended. I've read your posts for a while now and it's very clear you have some fairly serious anxiety issues that really need to be addressed. I understand that you aren't in a financial position to pay for getting some professional help by yourself, but surely there are some agencies/organzations that can assist you with this? I think this is really at the root of most of your issues and while "you" might think you're doing ok, it is pretty obvious from your posts that you're not, and I believe others here will agree. If you can post your general location maybe there are people here that can give you some ideas on where to start. The insomnia and obvious distress you feel over even minor things are not healthy, and not helping you or Dorrie. > This sleeping arrangement problem is a > new problem because (as some group [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > the warm months outside until dawn > practically every night. Leaving the cat out all night is not safe, as that's when most cat-eating predators are also out and about. Keeping her inside is much better. >Last autumn, > Dorrie and I hadn't yet bonded to the [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > first hops into bed with me.) > Dorrie is getting very old, 13 years is not "very old" and your cat probably has several good years yet, provided you feed her decent food and make sure she gets timely vet care. >But what am I going > to do if the smell of nitrogen and > gastrointestinal-related gasses > continued to keep me from sleeping? I'm > so weak this morning, I can hardly move. > (I change and wash her two litter boxes > every other day.) First of all, you need to get Dorrie to the vet for a check up and bloodwork to make sure there is nothing physical going on that is causing this. You have get over this anxiety about taking her to a vet and just do it because that is what is best for Dorrie. Secondly, you would be wise to switch to a clumping litter and scoop it twice a day. If you do this, you will be scooping both poop and urine out of the box and it will stay fresh for some time before you need to dump the litter, wash the box, and put in new litter. A box of clumping may seem more expensive, but you don't use as much because you're not constantly dumping and changing it like you do with plain litter, so the cost could actually be similar. If you're feeding a cheap dry food, that could be part of the problem as it results in more, and often smellier, poops. If you are free feeding that could also be an issue as Dorrie's system is constantly digesting food and the result is she is probably pooping more often. Get her on a 12 hour schedule of feeding strictly canned food, and she'll probably only poop once a day, and it will be at around the same time so you can hopefully have something to scoop out of the litterbox right before you go to bed and smell won't be an issue. Canned food is also better for Dorrie's health and by feeding her food closer to what she would eat if she was in the wild, you won't put the stress on her system that dry food causes, and you may prolong her life and certainly improve her health. You can read an excellent article about cat nutrition here: http://www.catsincanada.com/articles/feeding.html Megan Signature"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu's Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22 "Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way." - W.H. Murray zuzu22@webtv.net wrote in message news:<6602-415077A2-419@storefull- > My intention here is not to offend, but to help, and I hope you take > what I say here in the spirit with which it is intended. I've read your [quoted text clipped - 9 lines] > distress you feel over even minor things are not healthy, and not > helping you or Dorrie. Zuzu, you're a contented, competent, happy cat owner. That's fantastic. I have never assumed that physical or emotional suffering--either by a pet owner or by the pet owner's pet--is a sign of grave anxiety disorder. But thank you for giving me that option to consider. It was belittling but I suppose worth your taking the time to write. (BTW, I have never once received private email from any member of this newsgroup assuring me that it's "very clear" I have "fairly serious anxiety issues." Humbly, if such a thing is very clear about me, I wonder how clear it is about those members who post ten times more frequently than I do...and more anxiously.) > Leaving the cat out all night is not safe, as that's when most > cat-eating predators are also out and about. Keeping her inside is much > better. I do not anthropomorphize Dorrie. That is the source of suffering, Zuzu, for many cat/dog/bird/you-name-it owners. Dorrie is a former feral whose past has to be respected. She has the feline equivalent of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and I know she will always be one of the walking wounded, and not only do I not fault her for that, I love her for that and let her prowl. -SNIP FOR LENGTH > If you're feeding a cheap dry food, that could be part of the problem as > it results in more, and often smellier, poops. I feed her Fancy Feast and dry cat food, and will be growing her grass this autumn. You know what, Zuzu (and I call you Zuzu, although I'm aware you may post under names beside that and "Megan"), I think you wrote what you did because I have posted several memento moris here that incorporate Bible verses. I think your intention in answering my post at all was to do the equivalent of damning with faint praise--sort of, like, wounding with prosaic criticism. I don't think I care for you very much and would like to invite you to killfile me. I will make it a point to return the favor. Look up "ad hominem" in the dictionary if you don't know what it means. You may learn a new Latin phrase that you may add to your already overly lengthy and portentious signature. Sincerely--and with all the specious concern you showed for me today, my friend Hilary > zuzu22@webtv.net wrote in message news:<6602-415077A2-419@storefull- > [quoted text clipped - 57 lines] > > Hilary Damn, Hilary, that was beautiful. Meanwhile, I have to say, I feed Cheeks Fancy Feast and it doesn't make her have gas. However, there are some cats who do get gas from any and all canned food, and some who get it from just cheap canned food. (By the way, at Petsmart better quality food is actually cheaper than FF is at the grocery store here in Raleigh, NC. If my cat was stinky, I would give her a bath and try a different food, if she was up with her checkups. If you have not taken her in for a while, please do. Hilary wrote: > Zuzu, you're a contented, competent, > happy cat owner. That's fantastic. I [quoted text clipped - 6 lines] > suppose worth your taking the time to > write. It was not belittling. I was pointing out something that is very obvious in your posting history. I'm not the only one that sees that. I made clear what my intention was, but if you want to get defensive and be offended rather than taking a look at why someone perceives you as having a serious anxiety problem, that's certainly your prerogative. it doesn't change my observation though. >(BTW, I have never once received > private email from any member of this [quoted text clipped - 5 lines] > more frequently than I do...and more > anxiously.) This is not about the frequency of your posts. It's what's in them. Maybe you should do a google search on your previous postings and look at them with a fresh, unbiased eye. Maybe then you'll get a glimpse of what I see. >> Leaving the cat out all night is not >> safe, as that's when most cat-eating >> predators are also out and about. >> Keeping her inside is much better. > I do not anthropomorphize Dorrie. That > is the source of suffering, Zuzu, for [quoted text clipped - 6 lines] > do I not fault her for that, I love her > for that and let her prowl. You might not realize it, but you *are* anthrpomorphizing. Walking wounded? And you are attributing human feelings to her. I have several former ferals, and all are indoors and happy and many of them suffered serious trauma before I took them in. "Respecting their past" is silly. What's done is done. It's the present and the future that matter, and keeping them safe matters. There are ways for you to let Dorrie enjoy the outdoors without putting her at risk by leaving her out unsupervised all night. > -SNIP FOR LENGTH >> If you're feeding a cheap dry food, that >> could be part of the problem as it >> results in more, and often smellier, >> poops. > I feed her Fancy Feast and dry cat food, > and will be growing her grass this > autumn. You know what, Zuzu (and I call > you Zuzu, although I'm aware you may > post under names beside that and > "Megan"), No, I don't. I have posted using this email, and this email alone, since I came here in the beginning of 1999. >I think you wrote what you did > because I have posted several memento > moris here that incorporate Bible > verses. I'm sorry you think that. It's not true and I have never, ever criticized anyone for posting a bible verse. That's just silly. I have already told you why I said what I said, in plain and simple language. One thing most people here know about me is that I am honest in my opinions, and I'm not going to say one thing and mean another or have some weird ulterior motive for saying what I say. >I think your intention in > answering my post at all was to do the > equivalent of damning with faint > praise--sort of, like, wounding with > prosaic criticism. Not at all. It was out of genuine concern for you and Dorrie, and that is the only reason. If it makes you feel better to accuse me of intentionally offending you, well, there's nothing I can do about that, yet it doesn't change the fact that you're wrong. > I don't think I care for you very much > and would like to invite you to killfile > me. I don't have a killfile, and wouldn't use it if I did. It's unfortunate that you are so ready and willing to be offended at what was a post written with genuine concern. >I will make it a point to return the > favor. Look up "ad hominem" in the > dictionary if you don't know what it > means. If you are applying "ad hominem" to my post, it is apparent that *you* don't know what it means. You may not like what I had to say, but it doesn't change the fact that I am right. Megan Signature"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu's Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22 "Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way." - W.H. Murray > Hilary wrote: > > This is not about the frequency of your posts. It's what's in them. > Maybe you should do a google search on your previous postings and look > at them with a fresh, unbiased eye. Maybe then you'll get a glimpse of > what I see. I just had a look at the hundred or so posts Hilary has made in the last year or so, and she seems fine to me. She is emotional, and some of life's events make her sad, but that certainly is not indicative of mental or emotional illness. She is rather dramatic at times, but again, so what? She indicates that she's a bit low on cash and she's a fundamentalist Christian. If they can put you away for those things, look out middle America. I think it is a bit weird that she got so worked up about her cat's gas, but hey, that's no weirder than the guy who collects and saves fallen whiskers. I think Hilary is right. You attacked her personally by suggesting that her posting style and content indicate that she is ill. All you had to do was answer her concerns, or not. You did not have to turn on your condescending crap and evaluate her. You are most likely not in any position to judge her. Really, now. <snip> I had no doubt that you'd jump at even the glimmer of an opportunity to portray me in a bad and innacurate light, even though the truth is quite different. You salivate at the thought of it and obsessively jump at every chance, despite the fact that time and time again you get the usenet beat down. Let it go already. I was very clear about why I posted the way I did, and your lame attempts to distort that into something unrecognizable and false is beyond lame. Shooting the messenger doesn't change the accuracy of the message. Megan Signature"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu's Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22 "Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way." - W.H. Murray > <snip> > [quoted text clipped - 9 lines] > > Megan The fact remains--there is nothing wrong with Hilary. You attacked her personally rather than addressing the concerns in her post. Hilary was right in her response to you. The "Usenet beatdown." Um. Right. >You attacked her personally rather than >addressing the concerns in her post. I did no such thing. I voiced concern and made an observation. I also did address her concerns *in detail,* but you're so busy projecting it's apparently interfering with your reading comprehension. Megan Signature"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu's Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22 "Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way." - W.H. Murray > >You attacked her personally rather than > >addressing the concerns in her post. [quoted text clipped - 4 lines] > > Megan You can keep saying "lalalala I can't hear you" all you want, you fruitcake. It's all there. In print. And you could just have well have emailed her, and urged her to "get help" since you decided she "needs help." There was NO reason to post it here in the group unless you wanted to denigrate her. You're an unhappy passive aggressive piece of sh.t. >You can keep saying "lalalala I can't hear >you" all you want, you fruitcake. It's all >there. In print. Yep, it's all right there and I've yet to see you post a direct quote that unequivocally proves I "personally attacked" her. I didn't. (Hint: Making the observation that someone has an anxiety issue is not a personal attack, especially when that observation is prefaced with a statement making it clear no offense is intended.) >And you could just have well have >emailed her, and urged her to "get help" >since you decided she "needs help." Well I didn't, and since you have no power or ability to control my actions you'll just have to get over it. >There was NO reason to post it here in >the group unless you wanted to denigrate >her. I already stated my reasons for posting as I did. There was absolutely no intent on my part to denigrate her, which i made very clear at the outset. Your continual obsession with this over and over and over is tiresome. >You're an unhappy passive aggressive >piece of sh.t. You're projecting again, I see. Megan Signature"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu's Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22 "Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way." - W.H. Murray > The fact remains--there is nothing wrong with Hilary. You attacked > her personally rather than addressing the concerns in her post. Hilary > was right in her response to you. The "Usenet beatdown." Um. Right. As I said in the other thread, Megan did address the "smelly cat" problem in the second half of her original response, which you've conveniently ignored. And if you think there is nothing wrong with Hilary, you really haven't read her posts very closely. Hilary has repeatedly questioned her own obsession with this cat and whether she is crazy for loving it "too much". More than once she stated that she has lost all desire to live except for this cat, and that God sent the cat as a reason for her to live. She has also stated herself that she's thought Dorrie's behavioral changes may have been a response to her own depressions. She mentioned more than once that her living situation involved intolerable abuse (to her, not the cat), and referred to moving out as a "life-saving" situation. Then she posts about uncontrollable bouts of crying for more than a weak, over undue anxiety over getting Dorrie in a carrier, and that Dorrie might not like the new home, and backs out of moving, supposedly all for Dorrie's sake. Meanwhile, Dorrie is tame enough to be brushed regularly, but Hilary worries about stressing the cat by throwing a towel over it, to get her in the carrier to the vet. She repeatedly "can't" get the cat to a vet, and rationalizes that because she herself has a fear of mistreatment by doctors, maybe a "vet-free life" is better for Dorrie, and that going outdoors and giving the cat grass (because she herself is vegetarian) will protect Dorrie from disease. I suspect it was Hilary all along who needed a sedative to visit a medical professional, and not Dorrie. According to Hilary, Dorrie has "post traumatic stress disorder" from which she will never ever heal, and, "there are no men in our lives, we are both afraid of them." This former-feral made a successful transition to staying indoors, not wanting to go out any more, and she obsesses about getting the cat outside again. She writes of interrupting posting to bring the cat a bowl of milk so it won't have to get up from sunbathing. She wraps her in unnecessary goosedown coats and electric blankets. Is it any wonder that Dorrie might have been hiding during the day to get away from Hilary's obsessive "love" for her? Signaturejamie (jamiemck@newsguy.com) "There's a seeker born every minute." In the fine newsgroup "rec.pets.cats.health+behav", jamie@spam-me- > This former-feral made a successful transition to staying indoors, > not wanting to go out any more, and she obsesses about getting the [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > Is it any wonder that Dorrie might have been hiding during the day > to get away from Hilary's obsessive "love" for her? I snipped most of the start of your post and while I completely agree with, and have made the same observations, I personally wouldn't post that the problem someone is posting about and wants help with is due to "owner" issues, but it usually is. I tend to skip over an awful lot of posts these days based on author, subject, follow-ups by, etc. These cat groups are starting to look like havens for loony people. SignatureCheryl > In the fine newsgroup "rec.pets.cats.health+behav", jamie@spam-me- > [quoted text clipped - 12 lines] > lot of posts these days based on author, subject, follow-ups by, etc. > These cat groups are starting to look like havens for loony people. I know. It just isn't what it used to be, is it? >From: "Mary" crazyaboutfelines@yahoo.com >> In the fine newsgroup "rec.pets.cats.health+behav", jamie@spam-me- >> [quoted text clipped - 14 lines] > >I know. It just isn't what it used to be, is it? Must be a full moon. ________ See my cats: http://community.webshots.com/album/56955940rWhxAe Raw Diet Info: http://www.holisticat.com/drjletter.html http://www.geocities.com/rawfeeders/ForCatsOnly.html Declawing Info: http://www.wholecatjournal.com/articles/claws.htm > >From: "Mary" crazyaboutfelines@yahoo.com > [quoted text clipped - 18 lines] > > Must be a full moon. lol In the fine newsgroup "rec.pets.cats.health+behav", on 24 Sep 2004: >>From: "Mary" crazyaboutfelines@yahoo.com >>I know. It just isn't what it used to be, is it? Oh looky. #1 loony who can't resist jumping in with a smartass remark. Thanks for proving my point. I don't reply to your posts in months, in fact you've been in my kf with one other person (another loony, The Puppy Wizard, you should feel honored) and your other email addy, but yet I can still make you reply. Why is that? I'll tell you why, zero self control. Your buttons are too easy to push. Did you think I was directing that *at you*? lol Oh, and thanks for playing. ;) SignatureCheryl > In the fine newsgroup "rec.pets.cats.health+behav", > on 24 Sep 2004: [quoted text clipped - 11 lines] > Did you think I was directing that *at you*? lol Oh, and thanks for > playing. ;) lol > > The fact remains--there is nothing wrong with Hilary. You attacked > > her personally rather than addressing the concerns in her post. Hilary [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > problem in the second half of her original response, which you've > conveniently ignored. I didn't ignore it. I didn't read it. I never claimed to have read all of Megan's post. I hardly ever do because I can't stomach her self righteous tone. The first thing she did was attack Hilary. That's as far as I got and as far as Hilary got, too. > And if you think there is nothing wrong with Hilary, you really > haven't read her posts very closely. I've addressed my concerns with Hilary's posts. In detail. > Hilary has repeatedly questioned her own obsession with this cat > and whether she is crazy for loving it "too much". More than once > she stated that she has lost all desire to live except for this cat, > and that God sent the cat as a reason for her to live. She has also > stated herself that she's thought Dorrie's behavioral changes may > have been a response to her own depressions. Jamie. Does the above sound crazy to you? Really? > She mentioned more than once that her living situation involved > intolerable abuse (to her, not the cat), and referred to moving out [quoted text clipped - 24 lines] > Is it any wonder that Dorrie might have been hiding during the day > to get away from Hilary's obsessive "love" for her? Well, your concern for Hilary is overwhelming. I think you and Megan should send her a check so she can "get help." God I love the milk of human kindness, as expressed here. Thanks for enlightening us all about how "sick" Hilary really is. > Well, your concern for Hilary is overwhelming. I think you and Megan > should send her a check so she can "get help." God I love the milk > of human kindness, as expressed here. Thanks for enlightening us > all about how "sick" Hilary really is. It's all fine and good to wear your rose colored glasses and say Hilary is "fine" just to seem friendly in the newsgroup. But Usenet is not the Hallmark(tm) universe, and sometimes support is a kick in the a.s. But here you have a person saying her only reason to live is this cat, who is apparently so flatulent it keeps her awake nights. But since she can pet her and brush her, but "can't" put her in a carrier to take her to a vet (for which she previously stated she might be able to spend up to $200), her solution is not to have the cat examined, not to change the cat's diet, but to build the cat a pen to shut her in at night with an electric blanket turned on high -- a hazard to the cat in itself. Just what do you think is going to happen if Dorrie fails to thrive on cat grass and electric blankets? She clearly has problems far beyond the scope of chatting on a newsgroup. Maybe if enough people advise her that she needs help, she'll muscle over her fear of the medical profession and seek help, and both she and Dorrie will be better off. Signaturejamie (jamiemck@newsguy.com) "There's a seeker born every minute." << It's all fine and good to wear your rose colored glasses and say Hilary is "fine" just to seem friendly in the newsgroup. >> Actually, Mary pretty much supported what Megan said in one of her posts. I guess I'm the odd one out here because I just don't think it's "right" to tell people they're nuts or worthless or have a pointess existence or whatever even if it's said nicer than that. Some people are more fragile than others and maybe one of the ways they begin to reach out is through the internet and then they get slammed here, too, and it makes life all that much shittier and them less reluctant to try to reach out again. But, regardless of that, I don't think people should make such value judgements based on posts on usenet. In college, we all used to analyze each other ad nauseum, and play "Truth" and try to hurt each other, I guess, and it was only years later when I was talking to someone way more evolved than me that I realized that kind of crap can be very damaging when done by "untrained" people. You can hurt someone by arbitrarily tossing out that kind of criticism when you know they are likely to be hurt by it and when you really don't know what you're talking about anyway. I know, it's usenet and I've enjoyed many a flamefest with morons but if I think someone is a really timid, easily hurt kind of person, I don't indulge. It's not sporting. It's like going to a game preserve and hunting captive animals. And compared to what has been said since Megan's original post, her post was pretty innocuous. We all have Hilary figured out and could tell her how to have a better life and be more like us, apparently. Candace (take the litter out before replying by e-mail) See my cats: http://photos.yahoo.com/maccandace "One does not meet oneself until one catches the reflection from an eye other than human." (Loren Eisely) > > <snip> > > [quoted text clipped - 13 lines] > her personally rather than addressing the concerns in her post. Hilary > was right in her response to you. The "Usenet beatdown." Um. Right. Don't you people know the old saying about fighting on Usenet? It is like the special olympics. No matter who wins, you all still look like a bunch of retards. Bluesman > > > <snip> > > > [quoted text clipped - 17 lines] > like the special olympics. No matter who wins, you all still look > like a bunch of retards. You say that as though it's a bad thing. > Bluesman >I think it is a bit weird that she got so worked up >about her cat's gas, but hey, that's no weirder than the guy who >collects and saves fallen whiskers. Hey! I do that! > >I think it is a bit weird that she got so worked up > >about her cat's gas, but hey, that's no weirder than the guy who > >collects and saves fallen whiskers. > > Hey! I do that! <G> And besides, since when is weird necessarily a bad thing? > > If you're feeding a cheap dry food, that could be part of the problem as > > it results in more, and often smellier, poops. > > I feed her Fancy Feast and dry cat food, and will be growing her grass > this autumn. > Hilary Get away from FF. It's crap cat food! Really. Look for Wellness or Innova or Chicken Soup forf Cat Lovers Soul. Premium foods with little or no *grains* which cause gastrointestinal upsets, gas, etc. that's wet and dry food should be premium. If you can't find any of those use Nutro Complete or Nutro Natural. I think youwill find her poops less smelly. Also see my other post with the "oops" in it. LT > Hi, everyone. Here it is, 72 hours-and-counting without sleep, > because-- I have to admit it-- My Dorrie stinks up my bedroom so [quoted text clipped - 34 lines] > > Hilary You have received some good suggestions and I suggest you try them. I also add the following: A change of food -- a dental checkup -- a bath -- a window fan to help clear the air in your room. Have the Vet check her anal glands also. Best of luck. MLB Betsy, Bluesman, Lauren, Kaeli-- Thanks for responding. I've been on Usenet since the days when there were no graphics, and the truth is we all post sometimes in a "Lonely Hearts" mood. There's nothing like insomnia, cat worries, and an unimpressive bank account to get you in that mood; so thanks again for recognizing it. Your posts helped me through a very difficult day. I finished constructing Dorrie's new improved hut with electric blanket on high and cat nip on her pillow instead of chocolates. I wrote today to a vet site where they consider on a case-by-case basis taking charity feline dental cases. You're fortunate to be able to give your pets the best. Hopefully, someday I'll be able to do much more than I currently am. I would very much like to continue to post here, because the group's been the source of so much comfort to me, until today. I never kick people when they're down, not under the guise of "kindness" or "concern" or anything else. Oops, I'll do it again-- The Bible calls concerned criticism being a Job's comforter, and the other response to my post was so humiliating, I think I'll take some time away from the group and maybe see if I get some private email, which I always read. I never expected to be patronized so efficiently and hurtfully. I hope no one on Usenet has ever received such treatment from me. > Betsy, Bluesman, Lauren, Kaeli-- > [quoted text clipped - 22 lines] > I never expected to be patronized so efficiently and hurtfully. I > hope no one on Usenet has ever received such treatment from me. Man, I do not know about this electric blanket idea. It sounds dangerous. Bluesman has a good point, why can't the cat have the roam of the place? What is she going to do? <zuzu22@webtv.net> wrote in message news:22487-4150B8C7-181@storefull-3251.bay.webtv.net... > Hilary wrote: > [quoted text clipped - 115 lines] > > Megan And the reason you had to say all of this to Hilary here, as opposed to, say, in EMAIL would be ... your concern for her and Dorrie? Or what? >And the reason you had to say all of this >to Hilary here, as opposed to, say, in >EMAIL would be ... your concern for her >and Dorrie? Aparently you missed the part where I said maybe she could post her general location and others could offer some ideas on where to get assistance? If I sent a private email and nobody saw that it would be kind of hard for anyone to offer ideas if they don't see that and know they need to. Despite her defensive response, and nasty, false accusations, I do feel bad for her and hope that she can get some help, and I really mean that. Megan Signature"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu's Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22 "Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way." - W.H. Murray > >And the reason you had to say all of this > >to Hilary here, as opposed to, say, in > >EMAIL would be ... your concern for her > >and Dorrie? > > Aparently you missed the part where I said maybe she could post her general location and others could offer some ideas on where to get assistance? And you couldn't do that in email either? Face it, you miserable twit. You wanted to put Hilary down, to embarrass her, otherwise you would have voiced your concerns regarding her "problems" in an email. You are so transparent. There are lots of little people like you who make themselves feel bigger by demeaning those they think cannot or will not fight back. You nauseate me. If I sent a private email and nobody saw that it would be > kind of hard for anyone to offer ideas if they don't see that and know > they need to. Despite her defensive response, and nasty, false [quoted text clipped - 23 lines] > > - W.H. Murray <snip transparent attempt at making false accusations and applying motives that aren't there> Let it go, Mary. You can blubber all you want but you're still wrong. Megan Signature"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu's Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22 "Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way." - W.H. Murray > <snip transparent attempt at making false accusations and applying > motives that aren't there> > > Let it go, Mary. You can blubber all you want but you're still wrong. > > Megan lol >Problem w/ Dorrie >From: cowabungie@yahoo.com >Betsy, Bluesman, Lauren, Kaeli-- > [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] >unimpressive bank account to get you in that mood; so thanks again for >recognizing it. Your posts helped me through a very difficult day. I'm so sorry to hear you're having a rough time of it, Hilary. I honestly think some sleep will give you a fresh perspective on things. >I finished constructing Dorrie's new improved hut with electric >blanket on high I wouldn't put the electric blanket on high. Those things can cause burns so please be very careful. I fell asleep once with a heating pad and woke up to burned skin. > I >wrote today to a vet site where they consider on a case-by-case basis >taking charity feline dental cases. I want to wish the best for you and Dorrie. Lauren ________ See my cats: http://community.webshots.com/album/56955940rWhxAe Raw Diet Info: http://www.holisticat.com/drjletter.html http://www.geocities.com/rawfeeders/ForCatsOnly.html Declawing Info: http://www.wholecatjournal.com/articles/claws.htm > >Problem w/ Dorrie > >From: cowabungie@yahoo.com [quoted text clipped - 9 lines] > I'm so sorry to hear you're having a rough time of it, Hilary. I honestly > think some sleep will give you a fresh perspective on things. This is a really good point. << and the other response to my post was so humiliating, I think I'll take some time away from the group and maybe see if I get some private email, which I always read. >> Emailed and posted to rpchb: Hilary, I would really not quit posting to the group if you enjoy it and find it helpful and informative. While I cannot speak for Megan, in any way, I know she has a good heart. Her concern for animals is unparalleled and Megan has helped many people on this newsgroup out IRL, including me. She definitely has a strong personality that people seem to often find abrasive and she seldom (maybe never) backs down from her opinions regarding cats. I can't say I agree with her assessment of you and I can see how it would make you feel bad but don't feel humiliated. You have always been very upfront with your feelings and concerns so I'm sure everyone is able to form their own opinion (if they choose to do so). You know yourself so don't second guess yourself and do what you want and, if that means posting here, you should do it. Candace (take the litter out before replying by e-mail) See my cats: http://photos.yahoo.com/maccandace "One does not meet oneself until one catches the reflection from an eye other than human." (Loren Eisely) > Betsy, Bluesman, Lauren, Kaeli-- > [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > unimpressive bank account to get you in that mood; so thanks again for > recognizing it. Your posts helped me through a very difficult day. I hope you have less of those days. I know, though. I've had some rough ones myself. > I finished constructing Dorrie's new improved hut with electric > blanket on high and cat nip on her pillow instead of chocolates. I > wrote today to a vet site where they consider on a case-by-case basis > taking charity feline dental cases. Do be careful with the electric blanket. They can short out or even burn if left on too long, too high. You may want to consider hot water bottles. > You're fortunate to be able to give your pets the best. Hopefully, > someday I'll be able to do much more than I currently am. I wish I could give them more myself, actually. > I would very much like to continue to post here, because the group's > been the source of so much comfort to me, until today. I never kick [quoted text clipped - 6 lines] > I never expected to be patronized so efficiently and hurtfully. I > hope no one on Usenet has ever received such treatment from me. I know you're referring to Megan. She and I have had a few harsh words, too, but she's very knowledgeable and she's a nice lady. She means well, really. Everyone says things that come across the wrong way in type sometimes. I know my dry sense of humor never translates well on the 'net, but sometimes I forget and things get taken totally in the wrong way. Or I have a bad day and type something mean - it's not easy to take that back. Words, typed, written, or said, can wound for a long time. Even when they were never meant to. The Bible ALSO says that we must forgive. I hope you and Dorrie are well. [[ I can't e-mail this, as my newsreader is not configured to use my mail client here at work, so I do hope you read it... ]] Signature-- ~kaeli~ If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you. http://www.ipwebdesign.net/wildAtHeart http://www.ipwebdesign.net/kaelisSpace > Hi, everyone. Here it is, 72 hours-and-counting without sleep, > because-- I have to admit it-- My Dorrie stinks up my bedroom so [quoted text clipped - 34 lines] > > Hilary (1) Have Dorrie checked *thoroughly* for possible health problems, especially any gastrointestinal problems. Also have her anal sacs checked. Make sure you use a competent vet who will spend some time on this -- change vets, if necessary. (2) Use good, nonclumping litter and scoop the litter at least twice each day. Scoop immediately after each use if the feces is strong-smelling. Drs. Foster and Smith carries a product called Non-Stop Odor Absorber. It does a good job of absorbing odors in the area surrounding a litter box (but would not address the primary issue of gas). You can see it described here: http://tinyurl.com/4rr99 (3) Do *not* use that hut-with-electric blanket setup you described. That is dangerous! Your cat can be burned if the the setting is too high, and there is even a danger of electrocution because you have already described a cat that loves to knead (perfectly normal, I might add). (4) A *change of diet* is the most obvious need. Barring any medical problems, it is also the most important change to be made. You need a premium *canned* cat food that does not have a lot of carbs and junk fillers. As an analogy, think of how many products are sold for people who have gas and diarrhea, and also note that this type of dietary distress is often directly related to diet. Cats love Fancy Feast (mentioned in one of your later messages), but it does not meet these criteria. I use Wellness and Felidae. They can be ordered from www.petfooddirect.com if you do not have a local supplier. Eliminate free-feeding and discontinue all use of dry food (but you may want to make a transition gradually over a period of a week or so), and feed Dorrie on a regular schedule. I feed on a 12-hour schedule, or as close to that as possible. MaryL |
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