My Cat From Hell Season 9 Episode 15 Ferocious Foster
- TVPG
- September 8, 2018
- 43 min
My Cat From Hell is a reality show that follows cat behaviorist Jackson Galaxy as he helps owners with their cat-related problems. In season 9 episode 15, titled "Ferocious Foster," Jackson meets a couple who has been fostering two cats from a local animal shelter. The couple, Lisa and Chris, have been fostering the cats for six months, but one of the cats, a 3-year-old tabby named Chester, has become aggressive towards their other cat and towards them.
When Jackson arrives at the couple's home, he immediately notices how Chester is behaving. The cat is growling and hissing at Jackson, and he appears very fearful. Jackson notes that Chester is likely experiencing a lot of anxiety, and may be acting out as a result. He also takes note of the environment, and notices that the couple's home is quite cluttered and chaotic, which can contribute to a cat's stress levels.
Jackson starts by talking to Lisa and Chris about their fostering experience. He explains that fostering can be difficult, especially if the cats have had a traumatic past. Chester, for example, was found on the streets and likely experienced a lot of stress before being taken in by the shelter. Jackson also notes that cats can be territorial, and that introducing a new cat to a household can be challenging.
Jackson observes Chester and the other cat, a 1-year-old named Salem, interacting. He notes that Salem is afraid of Chester, and that Chester seems to be the aggressor in the situation. He explains to Lisa and Chris that they need to create a calm and safe environment for both cats, and that they need to work on establishing boundaries between them.
One of the first things Jackson does is work on the couple's home environment. He explains that having a calm and organized space can help reduce a cat's stress levels. Jackson and Lisa clean up the clutter in the home, and create dedicated spaces for the cats to play, eat, and sleep. They also work on giving both cats their own separate spaces, so they don't feel like they need to compete for attention.
Jackson also works on helping Chester feel more comfortable and less anxious. He introduces the couple to a technique called "catification," which involves creating spaces and structures that encourage cats to climb, scratch, and play. Jackson helps the couple build a custom cat climbing structure, complete with a hiding spot and scratching posts. He explains that this will give Chester a safe and fun space to play, and will help him feel less threatened in his environment.
Throughout the episode, Jackson works with Lisa and Chris to establish boundaries between Salem and Chester. He recommends creating separate feeding areas for the cats, and providing them with their own litter boxes. He also recommends using Feliway, a pheromone spray that can help reduce anxiety in cats.
By the end of the episode, Jackson has helped Lisa and Chris create a much more peaceful and organized environment for their cats. He has also helped them establish a more structured routine, with dedicated spaces and times for feeding, playing, and sleeping. Chester is still a work in progress, but he's already showing signs of improvement, and Lisa and Chris are much more confident in their ability to foster him and give him the care he needs.
Overall, "Ferocious Foster" is a heartwarming episode that highlights the importance of creating a safe and comfortable environment for cats, especially those who have experienced trauma or stress in the past. Jackson's expertise and compassion are on full display, as he helps Lisa and Chris navigate the challenges of fostering and caring for two cats with different personalities and needs.