CATS HAVE PROBLEMS TOO! with Dr Basil ~ Featuring Today's Despurrate Dilemma **HELP! THE HALLOWEEN COUNTDOWN IS NEARLY HERE, AND I'M TERRIFIED!!!**

 Welcome to 

Happy Monday epic furiends

Welcome to Cats Have Purroblems Too, where I give epically epic advice to cats with despurrate dilemmas too great for them to solve alone. 

Also, mew may be pondering on what my professional credentials are, so purrlease purruse the list below:

Ph.D. in Kitty Psychology & Psychiatry

BSc (Hons) Headology  

Psy.D. Furry Logic

 MS. Fuzzy Logic

MA. Common Sense

My other Professional Credits include:

NOM Master
Snoozy Savant
Purr Master

AdvoCat of T.L. Treatment
Touchy Feely Therapy or T.F.T
Purrfume Aroma Treatment or P.A.T.

I can help mew to solve all your Pet Peeves, Purrsonal Problems and Despurrate Dilemmas, no matter how great or small they may be.

Plus, I only use the very latest techniques, some of which I have developed myself over my long and esteemed career, which include:

 Purr Therapy ~ For Uptight and Particularly Stressed Kitties 

Nom Zen ~The Art of Nomming in Total Tranquility 

ZZZ's Snooze Sensation ~ Including Mewsical CatNap Sessions tailored to your purrsonal requirements

YogiCat Meditation ~ Stretches and Breathing Techniques for the Severely Stressed & Overworked

Intense CatNip Therapy ~ This treatment speaks for itself (I find it very beneficial)

I am also an AdvoCat of Tough Love coupled with a healthy dose of common kitty sense

Purrfume Aroma Treatment ~ A Sensory Smelling Session S.S.S. to calm and soothe with highly aromatic blends of specially selected scents

To help mew release all your stresses and worries just drop by my clinic held here or, alternatively email me your purroblem, and I'll answer here. If mew require to remain anonymous or anon, purrlease include that in your email. 

Mew can contact me directly at the following address:

DearDrBasil (at) gmail (dot) com

So come sit on my supurr comfy couch, reee-lax, breathe deeply and tell me of your troubles, as I'm ready, willing and able to help.

This is one of my cases via email:

HELP! THE HALLOWEEN COUNTDOWN IS NEARLY HERE, AND I'M TERRIFIED!!!

Dear Dr. Basil, I hope this letter finds mew in good spirits (pun intended)! As mew know, Halloween is quickly approaching, and I am writing to mew in a state of distress and utter terror.

I, Pumpkin the Orange cat, am once again experiencing pre-Halloween anxiety, and I am absolutely scared fur-less of all the ghosts that seem to appear out of nowhere during this spooky season.

Have mew seen their spooky white sheets floating around? It's enough to make a cat's fur stand on end! I find myself constantly on edge, jumping at the slightest creak and hiding under the bed at the sound of anything remotely resembling a ghostly noise. I cannot bear the thought of those spooky, translucent creatures floating around and making eerie noises. The mere idea sends shivers down my spine and makes my fur stand on end. I simply cannot cope with the thought of facing these spectral visitors. Rumour has it that mew are an expert in feline psychology, and I desperately need your help to overcome this fear. I implore mew, dear Dr. Basil, to come to my aid and provide me with guidance on how to navigate through this bone-chilling time of year.

Please send me your expert advice so that I can stroll confidently through the pumpkin patch once again!

Yours most anxiously, but not furgetting the purrs and paw hugs,

Pumpkin the Orange Cat

This is my Expert Reply

(Notice how I use a calming blue text colour to soothe Pumpkin's frayed furry nerves)

Dear Pumpkin,

It warms my heart to receive your letter, my brave little feline furiend. I understand that Halloween can be a furry challenging time for some anipal furiends, but fear not, for I have devised a seven-step program to help mew overcome your ghostly anxieties.

Step 1: Visualize Courage

Close your eyes and imagine yourself strutting through a field of pumpkins with your head held high. Visualize yourself fearlessly facing any ghostly encounters that may come your way. Repeat this visualization daily to build up your mental strength.

Step 2: Ghastly Exposure

Gradually expose yourself to ghostly images in a controlled environment. I recommend starting with cute cartoon ghosts and gradually working your way up to more realistic depictions. Over time, mew'll find that the fear diminishes as familiarity grows.

Step 3: Pawsitive Affirmations

Repeat positive affirmations such as "I am fearless" and "I am the king of the pumpkin patch" to build up your confidence. Pawsitive self-talk can work wonders in reshaping your mindset.

Step 4: Pawsitive Reinforcement 

Whenever mew feel brave enough to confront something that scares mew, be sure to reward yourself with treats and praise. This will help mew associate bravery with pawsitive experiences.

Step 5: Play Therapy

Engage in playful activities that bring mew joy and distract mew from your fears. Channelling your energy into play, whether chasing a toy mouse or playing a spirited game of hide-and-seek, can significantly reduce anxiety.

Step 6: Embrace the Ridiculousness

Sometimes, facing your fears means embracing the absurdity of the situation. Try picturing those ghosts wearing silly hats or dancing to funny music. It might help lessen their scariness.

Step 7: Seek Comfort 

Don't be afraid to seek comfort from your humans whenever mew feel scared. Their presence and affection can work wonders in calming your nerves.

I have total faith in mew, Pumpkin. With determination and a dash of feline charm, mew'll be prancing through the pumpkin patch with newfound confidence in no time, and no ghost will be giving mew any bother ever again!

Wishing mew a purrfectly peaceful Halloween,

Dr. Basil

@ The Cats have Purroblems Too Clinic T.M.

Today's Top Tip is:

~ Go slowly, tread lightly and take your time when facing any challenge ~ 

If mew can relate to this purroblem or feel that mew need any assistance, purrlease leave a comment to: Dear Dr Basil with your dilemma or email me directly, and I'll get back to mew.

Thank mew all for joining me today at The Cats Have Purroblems Too Clinic, and I'll be back soon with another open clinic and a brand new case study.

Until then, Keep Calm and Purr on

Dr Basil

Ph.D. ~ BSc. (Hons) ~ Psy.D. ~ M.S. ~ M.A. 

'The Paw Print Seal of Approval'

Copyright and All Rights Reserved @ Dr Basil ~ Cats have Purroblems Too Clinic

Follow Us @BionicBasil®  at Instacat

And don't furget to subscribe and never miss another clinic 

Graphics created with paid licence www.canva.com 

CATS HAVE PROBLEMS TOO! with Dr Basil ~ Featuring Today's Despurrate Dilemma **HELP! I NEED A NEW FAMILY!!!**

 Welcome to 

Happy Monday, furry floofers

Welcome to Cats Have Purroblems Too, where I give epically epic advice to cats with despurrate dilemmas too great for them to solve alone. 

Also, mew may be pondering on what my professional credentials are, so purrlease purruse the list below:

Ph.D. in Kitty Psychology & Psychiatry

BSc (Hons) Headology  

Psy.D. Furry Logic

 MS. Fuzzy Logic

MA. Common Sense

My other Professional Credits include:

NOM Master
Snoozy Savant
Purr Master

AdvoCat of T.L. Treatment
Touchy Feely Therapy or T.F.T
Purrfume Aroma Treatment or P.A.T.

I can help mew to solve all your Pet Peeves, Purrsonal Problems and Despurrate Dilemmas, no matter how great or small they may be.

Plus, I only use the very latest techniques, some of which I have developed myself over my long and esteemed career, which include:

 Purr Therapy ~ For Uptight and Particularly Stressed Kitties 

Nom Zen ~The Art of Nomming in Total Tranquility 

ZZZ's Snooze Sensation ~ Including Mewsical CatNap Sessions tailored to your purrsonal requirements

YogiCat Meditation ~ Stretches and Breathing Techniques for the Severely Stressed & Overworked

Intense CatNip Therapy ~ This treatment speaks for itself (I find it very beneficial)

I am also an AdvoCat of Tough Love coupled with a healthy dose of common kitty sense

Purrfume Aroma Treatment ~ A Sensory Smelling Session S.S.S. to calm and soothe with highly aromatic blends of specially selected scents

To help mew release all your stresses and worries just drop by my clinic held here or, alternatively email me your purroblem, and I'll answer here. If mew require to remain anonymous or anon, purrlease include that in your email. 

Mew can contact me directly at the following address:

DearDrBasil (at) gmail (dot) com

So come and sit on my supurr comfy couch, reee-lax, breathe deeply and tell me of your troubles, as I'm ready, willing and able to help.

This is one of my cases via email:

HELP! I NEED A NEW FAMILY!!!!

Dear Dr. Basil, I hope this letter finds mew in good health and high spirits, although I must admit that I am not in the same state of purrfection myself. Mew see, a traumatic event has recently occurred in my otherwise delightful feline life. My family, in a misguided attempt to add to our household, has brought home a sausage dog named Bub. Yes, mew heard that right, a sausage dog named Bub. As a sophisticated Siamese, I have always prided myself on my impeccable taste and refined sensibilities. And let me tell mew, Bub’s boisterous barking and rambunctious behavior have thrown the delicate balance of our household into disarray. It feels like the feline monarchy has been rudely invaded by a rowdy commoner! In light of this distressing turn of events, I find myself contemplating the unthinkable – trading in my current family for a more feline-friendly set of humans, and one that doesn't come with a side of sausage dog. But before I take such drastic measures, I thought it wise to seek your esteemed counsel on this matter. Is it unreasonable to expect a peaceful coexistence with a sausage dog named Bub? Am I overreacting to the point of melodrama? Or should I start packing my catnip collection and looking for a more canine-free environment? I trust in your wisdom to guide me through this tumultuous time and eagerly await your expert advice. Yours sincerely, Jade The Sophisticated Siamese

This is my Expert Reply

(Notice how I use a soothing blue text colour to soothe Jade's frazzled nerves and diffuse the situation!)

Dear Jade,

I understand that having a sausage dog named Bub join your family has caused quite the ruckus in your peaceful feline kingdom. It's completely understandable that mew're feeling a bit miffed about the whole situation. However, trading your family in might be a tad drastic, don't mew think?

Here's some sage advice to help mew navigate this new hairy territory:

1. Find Common Ground: Have mew tried finding common interests with Bub? Perhaps there's a shared love for sunny napping spots or tasty treats that mew both can enjoy. Building a bond with Bub might make his presence more bearable. 2. Establish Boundaries: It's vital to establish your own space within the household. Make sure mew have designated areas where mew can retreat to without the intrusion of Bub. This way, mew can have some "purrsonal meow time" without feeling stressed. 3. Seek Support: Have mew had an open and honest conversation with your family about how Bub's arrival has affected mew? Expressing your feelings to them might help them understand and make necessary adjustments to ensure peace and harmony among the furry members of the family. (And no hissing!) Remember, it's essential to approach this situation with an open mind and a sprinkle of humour. Who knows, after a little time has past, mew might just find a furiend in Bub after all! Wishing you a purrfect resolution,

Dr. Basil

@ The Cats have Purroblems Too Clinic T.M.

Today's Top Tip is:

~ Always take a breath before acting, take a moment and step away from the situation and assess the dilemma from another point of view ~ 

If mew can relate to this purroblem or feel that mew need any assistance, purrlease leave a comment to: Dear Dr Basil with your dilemma or email me directly, and I'll get back to mew.

Thank mew all for joining me today at The Cats have Purroblems Too Clinic, and I'll be back next Monday with another open clinic and a brand new case study.

Until then, Keep Calm and Purr on

Dr Basil

Ph.D. ~ BSc. (Hons) ~ Psy.D. ~ M.S. ~ M.A. 

'The Paw Print Seal of Approval'

Copyright and All Rights Reserved @ Dr Basil ~ Cats have Purroblems Too Clinic

Follow Us @BionicBasil®  at Instacat

And don't furget to subscribe and never miss another clinic 

Graphics created with paid licence www.canva.com  

CATS HAVE PROBLEMS TOO! with Dr Basil ~ Featuring Today's Despurrate Dilemma **HELP! WHY IS ISOLDE SEVERELY IRKED?!!!**

 Welcome to 

Happy Monday, furry floofers

Welcome to another episode of Cats Have Purroblems Too, where I give epically epic advice to cats with despurrate dilemmas too great for them to solve alone. 

 Take a seat, and read today's despurrate dilemma and my solution.

Also, mew may be pondering on what my professional credentials are, so purrlease purruse the list below:

Ph.D. in Kitty Psychology & Psychiatry

BSc (Hons) Headology  

Psy.D. Furry Logic

 MS. Fuzzy Logic

MA. Common Sense

My other Professional Credits include:

NOM Master
Snoozy Savant
Purr Master

AdvoCat of T.L. Treatment
Touchy Feely Therapy or T.F.T
Purrfume Aroma Treatment or P.A.T.

I can help mew to solve all your Pet Peeves, Purrsonal Problems and Despurrate Dilemmas, no matter how great or small they may be.

Plus, I only use the very latest techniques, some of which I have developed myself over my long and esteemed career, which include:

 Purr Therapy ~ For Uptight and Particularly Stressed Kitties 

Nom Zen ~The Art of Nomming in Total Tranquility 

ZZZ's Snooze Sensation ~ Including Mewsical CatNap Sessions tailored to your purrsonal requirements

YogiCat Meditation ~ Stretches and Breathing Techniques for the Severely Stressed & Overworked

Intense CatNip Therapy ~ This treatment speaks for itself (I find it very beneficial)

I am also an AdvoCat of Tough Love coupled with a healthy dose of common kitty sense

Purrfume Aroma Treatment ~ A Sensory Smelling Session S.S.S. to calm and soothe with highly aromatic blends of specially selected scents

To help mew release all your stresses and worries just drop by my clinic held here or, alternatively email me your purroblem, and I'll answer here. If mew require to remain anonymous or anon, purrlease include that in your email. 

Mew can contact me directly at the following address:

DearDrBasil (at) gmail (dot) com

So come and sit on my supurr comfy couch, reee-lax, breathe deeply and tell me of your troubles, as I'm ready, willing and able to help.

This is one of my cases via email:  

This came in yesterday, and I bumped it to the top of the pile as it's quite urgent. 

HELP! WHY IS ISOLDE SEVERELY IRKED?!!!

Dear Dr Basil, I hope this letter finds you in good spirits. I am writing to seek your esteemed advice regarding a matter of great urgency. It appears that my feline companion, Isolde, has been behaving rather peculiarly as of late. It seems that she is quite irked about something, although I must admit that I am at a loss as to what might be the root cause of her distress. It's just the two of us at home, and normally we have a fabulous relationship.

It all started last Thursday when I attempted to engage Isolde in a game of fetch using her favourite toy mouse. To my utter consternation, instead of partaking in this enjoyable pastime, Isolde simply glared at me with disdain and promptly sauntered off to her favourite napping spot beneath the antique armchair. Since then, her irritable moods have only escalated. She now gives me a wide berth, and I suspect she might be clandestinely plotting a feline uprising in protest of some perceived slight that has eluded my awareness. Her appetite and litter habits are normal, and there are no signs of any injury or illness. Dr. Basil, I implore you to lend me your expertise in deciphering the enigma that is Isolde's discontent. Perhaps she is perturbed by the local songbirds' impertinent chirping or the audacity of the neighbouring felines to encroach upon her perceived territory. Your insights on this matter will be invaluable in restoring harmony to our humble abode. Eagerly awaiting your sagacious counsel,

Petunia, Isolde's Human Mum

This is my Expert Reply

Today, I use the colour BLUE, which is the colour of calm and hopefully will be the purrfect choice for this particular purroblem.

Dear Petunia, Human Mum of Isolde The Severely Irked,

Thank mew for reaching out to me regarding Isolde's recent purrculiar behaviour. It is quite intriguing to ponder what might be vexing your feline furiend. Rest assured, I shall do my utmost to provide sagacious counsel on this matter.

My first response is a rather swift visit to your veterinary purractitioner is highly advised to rule out any medical condition that may not be outwardly apparent to mew, and if that yields no clues and Isolde is medically well, there are a few other things I'd like mew to consider.

The scenario mew've described certainly paints a picture of a discontented and aloof Isolde, and I share your desire to restore harmony to your abode. It is indeed possible that the impertinent chirping of the local songbirds or the audacious incursions of neighbouring felines could be sources of Isolde's frustration. In such instances, it's often beneficial to engage in a bit of feline diplomacy. A thorough investigation of Isolde's preferred lounging spots, mealtime preferences, and potential sources of disturbances inside and outside the home could yield valuable clues. In addition, incorporating enriching activities and diversions tailored to Isolde's discerning tastes may help alleviate her discontent. It may be that she's just bored, very bored and needs new stimulation to thwart this feline irksomeness; therefore, if possible, I would suggest buying a couple of new toys, some really strong catnip and treats to tempt Isolde into a more playful state.

One thing that sticks out to me is the fact that she is giving mew a wide berth. Have mew by any chance started wearing a new purrfume or scent? Or are mew using new candles, scents, sprays or cleaners within the home? Check out our Top Tips for Cat Pawrents page for more info.

Other things to consider: Have mew had any new visitors to the home? Are their new neighbours, who may purrhaps be quite noisy? Barking dogs nearby? Purrsons with noisy cars racing around? Screaming children? Has anything changed within the area mew live in recent days? Have there been any noisy parties or events with loud mewsic? Have there been any fireworks in the area? Has anypawdy tried to grab Isolde, if she is an indoor/outdoor kitty? There are many things to ponder, and Isolde may be a very sensitive kitty, who is easily spooked by things she's not used to.

However, if none of those things have changed, plus if she doesn't respond to the new toys and there's no apparent reason for her avoidance of mew, then I would seek the expertise of a feline behaviour specialist to come to the home for further investigation as to what is bugging her boggle.

Though, let us remain optimistic that with a thoughtful approach and attentive care, we shall unravel the enigma of Isolde's vexation and restore tranquillity to your home. Do let me know if mew need any more assistance.

Yours most sincerely

Dr. Basil

@ The Cats Have Purroblems Too Clinic T.M.

____________________________

Today's Top Tip is:

~ A process of elimination to reach the source of any purroblem can take time, and I would always advise a trip to the vet to rule out any medical issue first  ~

 

_________________________________

If mew can relate to this purroblem or feel that mew are in need of any assistance, purrlease leave a comment to: Dear Dr Basil.... or email me directly and I'll get back to mew.

Thank you all for joining me today at The Cats Have Purroblems Too Clinic. I'll be back in a couple of weeks with another open clinic and a new case study.

Also, many apologies for going on the missing list last week, all will be explained on The Midweek News, and we know mew won't want to miss that!

Until then, Keep Calm and Purr

Dr Basil

Ph.D. ~ BSc. (Hons) ~ Psy.D. ~ MS ~ MA

'The Paw Print Seal of Approval'

Copyright and All Rights Reserved @ Dr Basil ~ Cats Have Purroblems Too Clinic

(T.M. ~ Totally Meowvellous)

Follow Us @BionicBasil®  at Instacat

And don't furget to subscribe and never miss another clinic 

Graphics created with paid licence www.canva.com   

CATS HAVE PROBLEMS TOO! with Dr Basil ~ Featuring Today's Despurrate Dilemma **HELP! I HATE MY HUMANS NEW BOYFRIEND!!!**

 Welcome to 

Happy Monday, furry floofers

Welcome to another episode of Cats Have Purroblems Too, where I give epically epic advice to cats with despurrate dilemmas too great for them to solve alone. 

 Take a seat, and read today's despurrate dilemma and my solution.

Also, mew may be pondering on what my professional credentials are, so purrlease purruse the list below:

Ph.D. in Kitty Psychology & Psychiatry

BSc (Hons) Headology  

Psy.D. Furry Logic

 MS. Fuzzy Logic

MA. Common Sense

My other Professional Credits include:

NOM Master
Snoozy Savant
Purr Master

AdvoCat of T.L. Treatment
Touchy Feely Therapy or T.F.T
Purrfume Aroma Treatment or P.A.T.

I can help mew to solve all your Pet Peeves, Purrsonal Problems and Despurrate Dilemmas, no matter how great or small they may be.

Plus, I only use the very latest techniques, some of which I have developed myself over my long and esteemed career, which include:

 Purr Therapy ~ For Uptight and Particularly Stressed Kitties 

Nom Zen ~The Art of Nomming in Total Tranquility 

ZZZ's Snooze Sensation ~ Including Mewsical CatNap Sessions tailored to your purrsonal requirements

YogiCat Meditation ~ Stretches and Breathing Techniques for the Severely Stressed & Overworked

Intense CatNip Therapy ~ This treatment speaks for itself (I find it very beneficial)

I am also an AdvoCat of Tough Love coupled with a healthy dose of common kitty sense

Purrfume Aroma Treatment ~ A Sensory Smelling Session S.S.S. to calm and soothe with highly aromatic blends of specially selected scents

To help mew release all your stresses and worries just drop by my clinic held here or, alternatively email me your purroblem, and I'll answer here. If mew require to remain anonymous or anon, purrlease include that in your email. 

Mew can contact me directly at the following address:

DearDrBasil (at) gmail (dot) com

So come and sit on my supurr comfy couch, reee-lax, breathe deeply and tell me of your troubles, as I'm ready, willing and able to help.

This is one of my cases via email:  

HELP! I HATE MY HUMANS NEW BOYFRIEND!!!

Dear Dr. Basil, I hope this letter finds mew well. I have a bit of a purroblem that I'm hoping mew can help me with. Mew see, my human recently started dating a new boyfriend, and I can't stand him. Every time he stays over, I can't help but pee on his clothes. My human is not happy with me, and I really don't want to cause any trouble. Can mew please help me figure out how to overcome my intense dislike of this new boyfriend? Sincerely, Pansy, the Tabby

This is my Expert Reply

Today, I use the colour PINK, which is the colour of love and hopefully will be the purrfect choice for this particular purroblem.

Dear Pansy, I understand that adjusting to changes in your human's life can be difficult, especially when it involves a new purrson who mew're not used to. Here's a 9-point plan to help mew overcome your intense dislike of the new boyfriend: 1. **Positive Association:** Try to associate the new boyfriend with positive experiences. Encourage your human to spend time with both of mew together, engaging in activities that mew enjoy. 2. **Comfort Zone:** Create a safe space for yourself where mew can retreat when mew feel uncomfortable. This will help reduce your stress levels and give mew a sense of security. 3. **Reward System:** When mew interacts calmly with the new boyfriend, ensure your human rewards mew with treats and affection. Positive reinforcement can help change your perception. 4. **Slow Introduction:** Ask your human to introduce the new boyfriend gradually. Let him approach mew calmly and offer treats or toys to build trust. 5. **Scent Transfer:** Exchange scents between the boyfriend and yourself by rubbing a towel or cloth on him and placing it in your favourite spots. This helps mew get used to his scent without feeling threatened. 6. **Playtime:** Engage in interactive play sessions with the boyfriend. Play is a great way to bond and build positive associations. 7. **Consistent Routine:** Maintain a consistent daily routine to reduce stress and anxiety. Predictability can provide a sense of security for both mew and the new boyfriend.

8. **Patience and Understanding:** Remember, change takes time. Be patient with yourself and the new boyfriend. Understanding each other's needs and boundaries is essential for building a harmonious relationship.

9. **Worst Case Scenario:** If you're still having trouble adjusting, consider contacting me again, and we'll devise a plan to run the new boyfriend off into the sunset to restore your zen harmonies! MOL

I hope these tips help mew navigate this challenging situation. Remember that mew deserve to feel comfortable and secure in your home. With patience and perseverance, mew can overcome your dislike and build a positive relationship with the new boyfriend. Or we can initiate Step 9, the Worst Case Scenario plan.

Yours most sincerely

Dr. Basil

@ The Cats Have Purroblems Too Clinic T.M.

____________________________

Today's Top Tip is:

~ New purrsons in one's purrsonal space can cause much anxiety, it's always best to take things slowly to build a pawsitive connection ~

 

_________________________________

If mew can relate to this purroblem or feel that mew are in need of any assistance, purrlease leave a comment to: Dear Dr Basil.... or email me directly and I'll get back to mew.

Thank you all for joining me today at The Cats Have Purroblems Too Clinic. I'll be back in a couple of weeks with another open clinic and a new case study.

Also, many apologies for going on the missing list last week, all will be explained on The Midweek News, and we know mew won't want to miss that!

Until then, Keep Calm and Purr

Dr Basil

Ph.D. ~ BSc. (Hons) ~ Psy.D. ~ MS ~ MA

'The Paw Print Seal of Approval'

Copyright and All Rights Reserved @ Dr Basil ~ Cats Have Purroblems Too Clinic

(T.M. ~ Totally Meowvellous)

Follow Us @BionicBasil®  at Instacat

And don't furget to subscribe and never miss another clinic 

Graphics created with paid licence www.canva.com