Hi guys, this is my first post here, and I hope it’s okay to ask this. I got a beautiful 4-month-old Maine Coon kitten over the weekend. I was over the moon because this type of cat has been my dream for years, but no one really supported me mentally about having a cat, not even my husband, who has had second thoughts. When we saw her picture, we instantly fell in love. On the ride home, she was an angel. But once we got home, she kept her distance. We understand she needs to get used to her new environment. On Sunday, she got a little brave and started exploring, but by Monday morning, she was pushing her limits. That’s when I felt overwhelmed because she misbehaves a lot, scratching everything and jumping on tables and counters. I know this is typical kitten behavior, but I feel guilty when I yell at her. I know she needs to learn, but it seems like she won’t listen, and I feel like she’s destroying the house. Sometimes I have second thoughts about having her, but then I look at her little face and feel like I can’t give her away. She’s basically our baby and brings us joy, but I feel sad that I wanted her, and instead of feeling love and gratitude, I just feel anxiety about what might happen when she explores alone. I also feel guilty about my husband, who is wonderful, and I feel like I forced my wish upon him. Since she arrived, I haven’t given him as much attention as I used to. I know it won’t change soon because she’s a baby who needs constant care. Sometimes I just want to skip the next year and a half for her to grow up. I’m writing this as she sleeps next to me, and I’m crying about these negative thoughts. Does anyone have tips on how to cope with these feelings?
Kittens can be really tough but also really fulfilling once you get past it. They’re like little monsters. A lot of people recommend adopting two kittens, so they can play with each other instead of destroying your stuff. If that’s not possible, make sure you have plenty of scratching posts around, secure breakables, and give them lots of playtime. Once they grow up, they usually calm down.
I know how you feel. It’s tough because you want to enjoy her, but the overwhelming feelings can make it hard. We’re in the same boat with our kitten. We bought her a scratching pole too, and I hope it helps.
Watch some Jackson Galaxy videos on YouTube about raising kittens. He gives great advice. You’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed at first. It sounds like you love her and will work through this phase.
When I got my second puppy, it was really hard. She was a total menace, and I felt awful yelling at her. It’s totally normal to feel this way. I promise it will pass. Your kitten is lucky to have you, and you’ll miss these baby days.
Kittens are wild. I remember looking exhausted when I had three, but they were so much fun. Just hang in there. Keep reading about socializing and training, as redirecting is more effective than shouting.
Get over your perfect furniture and curtains. When you have a kitten, damage is just part of the experience. Learn as much as you can from people who have been there.