Ok, well first, you should have been told to expect these sorts of problems when purchasing a hybrid cat that is 50% or more wild. Especially, if she is from where I expect she is, she's more like 75-80% wild. First thing you must do is find out if it is even legal to have these hybrids where you live- check city, county, and state statutes. In MANY locations, these cats are prohibited or permit only. You've got to make sure you can legally keep her, because otherwise if you are reported (by a vet, for instance), she will be taken away and put down, plus you could be fined...even do jail time!

Now, legal issues aside...I truly congratulate you and envy you, your purchase...they are awesome creatures! Something that a hybrid breeder once told me, is that many times these cats like to go in a water box, instead of a regular litterbox. Just dump out the litter and instead put in a few inches of water...see if she will use it then, to poop AND pee. As far as her standoffishness goes, you must try to get her past that, because she could become a serious threat someday. Work with her, every day...no exceptions...until she trusts you and is affectionate. Keep her nails trimmed and NEVER let her nibble on you, no matter how cute and innocent it is.

Lastly, be careful about bringing any other animals in the house, and avoid taking your cat out of the house except when necessary. Taking her for leashed walked is tempting, no doubt, but she could potentially scare or hurt a neighbor. Thus you could get sued. And don't let her outside unattended, no matter what! Maybe you could screen in a porch, so she can get that MUCH needed fresh outside air feel, without being in danger of small minded people assuming you have a 'tiger' or a 'leopard'. Believe me, it's not that outlandish.
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Jennifer



My alley cats: Othello, Vladimir, and Maxwell.

My Bengal: Razzle Tazzle.

My Himalayans: Krueger, Jinx, Dumplin', Dervish, and Precious. Thank you, Jennifer, Sandy, and Rita for trusting me with your babies!!!

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