I started out with one cat, who as a kitten was clearly lonely and started meowing through the nights and scratching at doors etc. So, I got him a brother. Magically, cat #1's behavior issues resolved. What a relief.
Now the second cat has become the problem. He is INSANELY needy. Always follows me around the apartment, wants tons of cuddles (won't sit on my lap though) and will only eat tiny portions of food at a time. Very fussy. I'm forced to feed several small meals a day, rather than leaving food out for cat #2 to eat when he pleases, because cat #1 will literally eat all of both of their portions until he makes himself sick and overweight. Great.
They are really good through the night; I lock them out of the bedroom during my sleep hours so I'm not being climbed on and nibbled at. BUT, once anywhere from 4-7am rolls around, it is a guarantee that cat #2 is screaming at my door. Sometimes ignoring him works, but sometimes he screams for so long that I'm afraid my neighbour's can hear him, which forces me to get up and inadvertently encourage the behavior. I understand I need to break this cycle, but it has proven to be really tough.
It seems he's more in it for attention than food, as sometimes he will eat if I feed him but usually he just wants to be in the bedroom with me, to walk on my head for a good 10 minutes before settling down again.
I've tried everything. Playing lots before bed, feeding before bed, ignoring the meows as much as I possibly can, catnip, pheromone collar, black-out curtains. You name it. Unfortunately, having the two cats with such opposing appetites makes it really challenging to utilize auto-feeders and things like that. It just ends up having cat #1 fed too much.
I am at a loss with what to do, and this is becoming a large stressor for my partner who stays at my place several times a week. I love these guys and I want to help us all live in harmony. Please send help.
[Both cats are between 3-4 years old, both neutered]
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from Pets https://www.reddit.com/r/Pets/comments/nueod3/cat_will_not_stop_waking_me_in_the_morning/
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