My cat follows me everywhere

#MiddleburyCT #ClingyCat

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I adopted a cat from a shelter just before Thanksgiving of last year. Blue is a beautiful boy who settled right into my home. He’s very well socialized and doesn’t even claw the furniture. However, he follows me everywhere! Even to the bathroom – I have to close the door in his face. At night, he meows and paws at my bedroom door. He runs under the bed when I leave the house, and he sulks for quite a while when I return. How can I stop his clingy ways? – Beth in Syracuse, New York

DEAR BETH: There’s a fine line between “cuddly” and “clingy,” and Blue has hopped right over it. If it helps, know that you’re not alone. Studies over the past decade show that cats bond to their humans much more strongly than we thought. Underneath that aloof exterior is a loyal heart of gold.

Cats who’ve had to spend time in a shelter may become overly clingy once they reach their forever home. They’re finally with a forever family, and they don’t want to let go! It’s also tempting to give in to their demands for treats or to take over your bedroom to make up for their lost time.

Keep enforcing boundaries, but try to introduce positive stimuli before and after you shut him out of the bathroom or bedroom. Two important factors to be aware of are: 1. A daily routine and 2. Combating boredom. Commit to spending time with your cat before leaving for work, after returning and before going to bed. Incorporate play, using toys or laser pointers that he can chase.

Don’t give up. You and Blue will figure out a routine and comfort level that works for both of you.

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