Question:
Molly, our 2-1/2-year-old female cat, is terrified that someone may come into the house. Any noise near the house sends her into hiding. She appeared to have been thrown from a moving car at 10 weeks. Her hip was dislocated, her chin was skinned and a tooth was chipped. She showed all signs of having been an indoor kitten with no indication of mistreatment.Any suggestions for calming her fears? She is healthy now. She races down the hall, through the office, den, kitchen, living room and back down the hall.
T.H.P., Fort Worth, TX Nov 12, 2006
Answer:
You may well be correct in attributing Molly's fear/paranoia to a traumatic experience earlier in life and a painful, slow recovery. A short (three- to four-week) trial treatment with a low dose of valerian or passion-flower herbal extract (under veterinary supervision) would be worth considering.Adopting an easygoing, older, healthy cat on a trial basis from your local shelter (to see if they are compatible) may be the ultimate solution. Being around a friendly, stable animal can do much to help skittish animals feel more secure and be less fearful.
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