Question:
We have two female, 7-month-old kittens. One is outgoing and doesn't mind getting combed, claws clipped, etc. It is this cat that my husband is determined to see swimming in our pool. He puts her in the water on the steps. She scurries out quickly and spends the next 45 minutes licking herself dry. I don't think this activity is natural for a cat. The chlorine is mild, but I wonder about that, too. May I have your opinion, please?.
L.M., Bonita Springs, FL Feb 26, 2006
Answer:
Kindly tell your husband to stop terrifying the kitten. Cats can swim, but few do it for pleasure. Your husband should either get a dog or get out if he persists in tormenting the kitten. If he refuses to stop (and accepts the fact that most cats hate water), then tell him he is actually committing a felony offense and you will report him.Cruelty to animals is a felony in many states, rather than a simple misdemeanor. I'm sure your husband probably doesn't mean any harm, but you clearly know better; otherwise, you wouldn't have written to me. Readers should be alert to animal cruelty in their homes and communities, because the perpetrators, if adult, could also be spousal and child abusers. If they are children, they could well grow up to be violent criminals, as several studies have shown.
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