The Cat Who Cried for Help

Book excerpt: In this groundbreaking book, Dr. Nicholas Dodman does for feline psychology what he did for canines in his widely acclaimed The Dog Who Loved Too Much. Here he reveals the fascinating, and often frustrating, mind of one of our most popular--and certainly most independent--animal companions, and shows how we can coexist peacefully with even the stubbornest of cats. What do you do about a cat determined to tear your sofa to shreds? Or one who gorges himself on your best running shoes . . . or attacks anyone who dares to open the refrigerator door? Drawing on remarkable real-life stories from his practice at the prestigious Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Dodman shares the unique, compassionate, dramatically successful treatment programs that have given problem cats a new lease on life . . . and their perplexed owners long-term solutions to even the most intractable disorders. As any cat owner knows, changing a cat's behavior can seem like an impossible task. But contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained and cured of irritating habits and undesirable behaviors. The Cat Who Cried for Help shows how minor adjustments in diet, exercise regimen, and environment can effect dramatic breakthroughs in resolving almost any feline problem. From cat panic attacks to eating disorders, from litterbox aversion to depression and a wide range of feline phobias, Dr. Dodman has successfully treated and resolved these and many other heretofore untreatable behaviors. Inside, you'll meet Ashley, the boss-cat who literally bites the hand that feeds him; Jonathan, the binge-eater; Rubles, the Abyssinian Jekyll and Hyde, pussycat one minute, man-eating tiger the next; and Thomas, the cat who cried for help--a little too loudly. Dr. Dodman's techniques are based on the most up-to-date research in pharmacology and feline behaviorism. Yet the primary objective of his treatments is to respect and protect the qualities of independence and dignity fundamental to a cat's nature. Including descriptions of symptoms, treatment options, and tips on prevention, The Cat Who Cried for Help provides everything you need to know to ensure both you and your feline friend a long, happy, and healthy relationship. If you've ever wanted to better understand the nature of this mysterious, enigmatic, and fascinating creature, Dr. Dodman's book provides a penetrating look into the intriguing and intricate world of the cat in your life.