everal years ago a woman,
Jane, came into my store to tell me that her cat is biting and scratching her. She had many scratches and bites on her forearm. When I asked her how long this had been going on,
she said, "oh, about 4 years". So I asked why she was asking for help now. It seems that Joe had bitten her about a week ago, and she had developed cat scratch fever and
was hospitalized.
There are many folks who tolerate their cat's inappropriate behaviors. But when your health is compromised by a cat who is biting and scratching, it becomes a very serious
problem. Once in while, a cat scratch or bite may result in a serious medical condition called Cat Scratch Disease. Most folks need to see their physician if this occurs.
It is alway surprising to me how many people tolerate this behavior and how long they put up with it. I think folks prolong seeking help for a biting or scratching cat
because they have been told by other uneducated folks that this behavior cannot be modified. Luckily, that is not the case.
We worked out a behavior modification program for Joe, and all is well at his home. He is behaving appropriately, and Jane is a much happier feline owner.
It is always amazing how long folks wait to get help.
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