Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Okay, I posted the message about my cat scratching at the windows and walls at night. Quick question about crate training, because I think we could use that in this next situation:

Lexx has been doing the scratching and meowing at 4:30-5:00 AM consistently for over a week...like clockwork! I had been placing him outside the room and closing the door, which worked once or twice, but now he just claws at the door. So, my husband was ready to throw him in his cage and put him as far fromt he bedroom as possible, but I wanted to check first with other people. Is it cruel to keep him caged from 4:30-7:00 AM? It's only 2 1/2 hours, which isn't long for dogs, but would that be wrong for a cat? This problem is the only thing we'd use this type of "training" for. Thoughts?

Thanks again!
P

It's funny, I just now suggested to a woman to crate train her cat for litter box problems, lol. I don't think it would harm her, but others might have suggestions for your situation.

Destany
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Myrtle - Queen Diva Mommy Cat
April - Little Miss Beauty Pagent
Mina - Professional Kitty Acrobat
Ringo - Brat Extraordonaire

I would not recommend using the cat's regular carrier for this because he could develop a really serious aversion to it and this is not good when you need to transport him somewhere. But a slightly larger crate - like a dog crate might not be a bad idea. It's a matter of quietly and firmly picking up the cat when he disturbs you and placing him in the cage. No scolding or anything. He'll probably figure out very quickly that noise gets him unwanted attention and he'll stop. Be sure he has water, but no food. And of course don't leave him in there for more than a few hours while you are getting some rest.
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Smile, it will make them wonder what you are up to!