Animal Profile


Onyx

Hello, my name is Onyx. My animal id is #210811. I am a desexed male black cat at the Queens Animal Care Center. The shelter thinks I am about 8 years 3 months 2 weeks old.

I came into the shelter as a owner surrender on 9/25/2024, with the surrender reason stated as animal behavior - aggressive towards people.

Onyx is on the At Risk list due to behavior. His owner describes him as being solitary and bit of a couch potato. He is not thriving in the care center and continues to display distance-increasing behavior when approached for interactions. He has not warmed up despite staff using treats to build a positive association. Due to his stress levels, it is in his best interest to move out of the kennel environment and into a stable home as quickly as possible. He would do best in a home with adopters who are willing to give him plenty of time and space to adjust, and who have experience with helping a fearful cat adjust to strangers. Medically Onyx has an upper respiratory infection and has a decreased appetite.

Onyx is on the at-risk list due to behavior. He is not thriving in the care center and continues to display challenging behavior during interactions. He is extremely intelligent and high energy, and needs to expend energy constructively with interactive play sessions 3-4X/day. In addition to playtime, this cat would also benefit from mental exercise from activities such as puzzle toys/games, lick mats, or clicker training. Without providing activity for his mind and body, the cat may react with rough play, potentially resulting in bite/scratch incidents. It is in his best interest to move out of the kennel environment and into a stable home as quickly as possible. He would do best in a home with adopters who are willing to give him plenty of time and space to adjust, and who have experience with feline body language; particularly overstimulation, rough play, and who have the time to invest in managing these behaviors on a consistent basis to avoid (further) bite/scratch incidents.

You may know me from such films as...

Let's get to know each other a bit more...

This pet needs emergency placement. Please click here to go to our emergency placement page for more information. Onyx is on the at-risk list due to behavior. He is not thriving in the care center and continues to display challenging behavior during interactions. He is extremely intelligent and high energy, and needs to expend energy constructively with interactive play sessions 3-4X/day. In addition to playtime, this cat would also benefit from mental exercise from activities such as puzzle toys/games, lick mats, or clicker training. Without providing activity for his mind and body, the cat may react with rough play, potentially resulting in bite/scratch incidents. It is in his best interest to move out of the kennel environment and into a stable home as quickly as possible. He would do best in a home with adopters who are willing to give him plenty of time and space to adjust, and who have experience with feline body language; particularly overstimulation, rough play, and who have the time to invest in managing these behaviors on a consistent basis to avoid (further) bite/scratch incidents. I have potential behavioral challenges that staff will address with you when you meet me Due to prior owner history, we feel that this cat will do best in an experienced cat parent home Onyx appreciates attention and petting and allows handling but may have some potential behavior challenges that need to be addressed. He may be a little more independent, and may need time to warm up to his new home. Due to the behaviors seen in the care center, we feel that this cat will do best in an experienced, adult only home. A volunteer writes: Onyx thinks he's been tasked with greeting everyone who walks into Adoptions. Though he technically hasn't, watching him dance his hellos is one of the most endearing things I've ever seen. He looks like a big fluffy bear and will usually start rolling around and reaching his paws out when he sees someone approaching. "I've got this," he says in all seriousness to the other cats who probably aren't paying attention. When the condo door is open, Onyx usually all headbutts and purrs as he attempts to step over my arms and onto the floor. And while too many pets generally aren't his style, Onyx wants to be included and will flop himself into a little circle right next to me to make his point. This is where his toy collection comes in handy, especially since he isn't always looking for scritches, but still wants to be close. Onyx will happily pounce after his toys and proudly carry them to his bed. He's a fun little guy who is really hoping to meet you soon!

My medical notes are...

Weight: 20.2 lbs

9/26/2024

DVM Intake Exam Estimated age: 8 years Microchip noted on Intake? scanned positive History: owner surrender DOH Subjective: Observed Behavior - Is there evidence of Cruelty? no Is there evidence of Neglect? no Is there evidence of Trauma? no Objective BCS: 8/9 EENT: Eyes clear, ears clean, no nasal or ocular discharge noted Oral Exam: not examined PLN: No enlargements noted H/L: NSR, NMA, CRT < 2, Lungs clear, eupneic ABD: Non painful, no masses palpated U/G: male neutered MSI: Ambulatory x 4, skin free of parasites, matted fur, lots of dandruff, CNS: Mentation appropriate - no signs of neurologic abnormalities Assessment: overweight cat, poor coat health, too obese to groom properly - apparently healthy Prognosis: fair Plan: 0.25ml DEX/ 0.25ml Torb - cat mildly sedated. performed exam in SURGERY: Permanent waiver due to already altered

10/4/2024

Onyx was examined at 9.30am on 10/4/2024. He does not show any neurological or clinical signs consistent with rabies and can be released from rabies observation.

10/13/2024

S/O -noted on rounds board to sound congested -BAR, food eaten, S+ EENT: mild serous ocular dc, mild bilateral serous nasal d/c, sneeze marks on glass H/L: eupneic A. URI- mild P. No abx needed at this time Forti flora SID x 7 days 3 7 10 day rechecks

10/16/2024

Progress exam: URI recheck Subjective: Q-BAR, no C/S/V/D. Poor appetite. Objective: EYES: Mild green ocular discharge in tear ducts. LUNGS: Eupneic, no sign of respiratory distress NASAL CAVITY: mild green seromucoid discharge MUSCULOSKELETAL: Ambulatory x4, no lameness or lesions NEURO: Appropriate mentation ASSESSMENT: Presumed URI PLAN: Per standing orders -Start doxy 10mg/kg PO q24h x10days & medical feedings q12h x5days -CTM, recheck on 10/20

10/19/2024

S/O -URI w reported inappetence -QAR, food reported to be untouched, S+ EENT: no OU dc, moderate bilat thin mucoid nasal dc H/L: eupneic, audible congestion MSI: no apparent lameness or lesions A. URI- moderate with secondary inappetence P. Moved to med-iso 100mL SQF SID x 3 days Cerenia (10mg/mL) 1mL SQ SID x 2 days Gaba 100mg PO BID x 7 days (give in baby food/tuna) Nebulize 5mL saline over 10min SID x 3 days Recheck in 3 days, last day of supportive care

10/22/2024

S/O - QAR solicits pets, unsteady on scale EENT: no OU/n dc H/L: eupneic MSI: amb x 4, no lameness appreciated A/P - large overweight cat 10/22 weight 20# decrease weight from admission

10/22/2024

Progress exam: URI & Appetite recheck Subjective: BAR, no C/S/V/D. Eating okay. Objective: EYES: dry discharge in tear ducts LUNGS: Eupneic, no sign of respiratory distress NASAL CAVITY: mild clear serous discharge MUSCULOSKELETAL: Ambulatory x4, no lameness or lesions NEURO: Appropriate mentation ASSESSMENT: Presumed URI PLAN: Per standing orders -CTM, recheck on 10/25

10/23/2024

Hx: has had URI BAR and very social H did not eat food eent- no nasal or ocular discharge; no coughing or sneezing msi- amb x 4; obese A) No URI-like signs appetite is questionable P) Move out of ISO Placement/homing monitor appetite risk for fatty liver change

Details on my behavior are...

Behavior Condition: 3. Yellow

Minimal handling done - taken to medical

Spay/Neuter status: Yes

Date of Intake: 9/25/2024

Is this cat having litter box issues?: Yes

If yes, Please elaborate:: Onyx has been reported to defecate outside of his litterbox a few times a week. It is suspected that this is due to his inability to squat/clean himself.

Basic Information:: Onyx is a eight year old, fixed, domestic short hair, male cat. Onyx was surrendered by his owner due to allergies within the home and bite/scratch history.

Previously lived with:: 3 adults, 1 child

How is this cat around strangers?: Onyx is at first timid around strangers and visitors. He typically hides, and may stress meow, growl, hiss, swat, scratch, or bite. He will warm up with time, and will approach for contact on his own terms.

How is this cat around children?: Onyx is timid around children. He typically hides, and may stress meow, growl, hiss, swat, scratch, or bite. Onyx has lived with a seven year old child.

How is this cat around other cats?: Onyx has no experience with other cats.

How is this cat around dogs?: Onyx has no experience with dogs.

Behavior Notes: Onyx growls and bites when having his nails trimmed, being brushed, being held, or being placed in a carrier.

Bite history:: Onyx will bite and scratch when being brushed or otherwise cleaned, when being pet, and when playing.

Energy level/descriptors:: Low

Has this cat ever had any medical issues?: Yes

Medical Notes: Onyx is obese and breathes heavily.

For a New Family to Know: Onyx is a anxious, solitary, bold, lazy, indoor only, cat. He is described as a big baby scared-y cat. He likes to hang out in the living room, and enjoys chasing and pouncing on toys. Onyx can play rough, and has been reported to bite and scratch. Onyx will come up to people and softly headbutt when he wants attention or scratches. Onyx has previously had access to a vertical scratching post made of carpet/fabric, and a horizontal surface made of cardboard. He eats both wet food (Heart to Tail) and dry food (Rachel Ray Nutrish). He loves Heart to Tail treats. He had access to one covered litterbox in the kitchen with scented, clumping litter. He is not reported to be spraying. He is reported

KNOWN HISTORY:: Lived Indoors Previously lived with: 3 adults, 1 child Behavior toward strangers: Onyx is at first timid around strangers and visitors. He typically hides, and may stress meow, growl, hiss, swat, scratch, or bite. He will warm up with time, and will approach for contact on his own terms. . Behavior toward children: Onyx is timid around children. He typically hides, and may stress meow, growl, hiss, swat, scratch, or bite. Onyx has lived with a seven year old child. Behavior toward cats: Onyx has no experience with other cats. Behavior toward dogs: Onyx has no experience with dogs. Bite or Scratch history: Please see "potential challenges" section Litter box training: He had access to one covered litterbox in the kitchen with scented, clumping litter. Onyx has been reported to defecate outside of his litterbox a few times a week. It is suspected that this is due to his inability to squat/clean himself. Energy level/descriptors: Low Other notes: Onyx is a anxious, solitary, bold, lazy, indoor only, cat. He is described as a big baby scared-y cat. He likes to hang out in the living room, and enjoys chasing and pouncing on toys. Onyx can play rough, and has been reported to bite and scratch. Onyx will come up to people and softly headbutt when he wants attention or scratches. Onyx has previously had access to a vertical scratching post made of carpet/fabric, and a horizontal surface made of cardboard. He eats both wet food (Heart to Tail) and dry food (Rachel Ray Nutrish). He loves Heart to Tail treats.Onyx will bite and scratch when being brushed or otherwise cleaned, when being pet, and when playing.

ENRICHMENT NOTES:: 10/4/24 FB58 In his den and completely hidden from view. He appears to be shut down and does not respond to the chicken offered or when pet/touched with the tool. His wet food from this morning appears untouched, not adjusting well to being in shelter. 10/08/24 FB1261 Lying on top of perch, body low, pupils dilated and ears forward. He leans forward to sniff my hand when offered, then he tolerates head and cheek rubs for a few moments (while looking around the room) before softening his face slightly and beginning to lean in! He is curious but unsure and still needs some more time warm up to the shelter. I reward with treats and a toy. 10/10/24 FB79 Inside his den, Onyx is out of sight and he has wide eyes when i lift the den cover to get a better look at him. He watches the pointer tool closer when i slowly introduce it into his den and tolerates pets on the side of his body before he starts to shuffle around and move away. I leave a few treats and respect his space. 10/14/24 FB79 sitting at the top part shelf in his kennel, Onyx is under the weather and has watery eyes with forward ears. He has no reaction to me speaking softly or petting him on his head/cheeks. I leave a few treats and toys for later if he feels up for it. 10/18/24 FB58 Out at the cubby front with a neutral face and body. He is curious and soliciting attention today and accepts pets with the tool and rubs along the tool and the cage door. When pet along his side or on his chest, he turns to bite/chew on the tool and holds onto it. No hissing, growling, etc. as he is biting the tool.

ACTIVITY LEVEL:: Moderate

VOCAL:: Quiet

CHARACTER TYPE: : Social,Affectionate,Demanding,People oriented

POTENTIAL CHALLENGES:: Inappropriate elimination,Overstimulation,Rough play,Fearful,New home adjustment period

Potential challenges comments:: Onyx has a previous bite incident in shelter where: On 9/24/24 at 6PM A staff member was cleaning Onyx's butt with a wipe. Onyx immediately turned, biting and releasing her hand repeatedly until being pushed off by another staff member. Onyx ran to the other room. The bite broke skin, leaving multiple puncture wounds. No medical attention was needed. Onyx has been reported to defecate outside of his litterbox a few times a week. It is suspected that this is due to his inability to squat/clean himself. Onyx can play rough, and has been reported to bite and scratch. Onyx will come up to people and softly headbutt when he wants attention or scratches. Onyx will bite and scratch when being brushed or otherwise cleaned, when being pet, and when playing. Please see behavior flyers for more information.

BEHAVIOR DETERMINATION: : Level 3

RECOMMENDATIONS:: Adult only home

Recommendations comments:: Due to the behavior seen in shelter as well as behaviors mentioned in his previous home, and needing a longer time to warm up, the behavior team feels Onyx would do best in an adult-only home where they would be able to acclimate in a calm environment.

BEHAVIOR SUMMARY:: 10/2/24 Onyx was hunched in his cat den as the assessor approached, body and face tense and pupils dilated. Onyx made eye contact when spoken to and eh remained frozen in place as the kennel door opened. Onyx tolerated petting along his head and body from within his den with the assess-a-hand while remaining very still. Pick up was not attempted at this time to reduce stress. 10/23/24 Upon re-eval, Onyx is at the front of his cage with a curious face and body, tail raised and ears forward. When the cage door is opened, he rubs his face and cheeks along the assessor's hand enthusiastically and accepts pets along his head and back without issue. He allows the assessor to lift him up and place him back down. Due to his bite history and owner notes, the behavior team feels that although he is showing social and hand-able behaviors, he will require an experienced adopter who is aware of his behavior challenges and and is willing to monitor his body language and limit interactions to ensure they are ended before there is a chance for him to escalate. 11/23/24 Upon re-evaluation, Onyx displayed the same behaviors described in the previous evaluation. 12/23/24 Onyx is an affectionate and social cat. He has been displaying much more obvious signs of overstimulation in his kennel at this time. He leans in, rolls over and swats, pulling the tool or assess-a-hand closer to him so he can bat at it and nip it. Onyx appreciates attention and petting and allows handling but may have some potential behavior challenges that need to be addressed. He may be a little more independent, and may need time to warm up to his new home. Due to the behaviors seen in the care center, we feel that this cat will do best in an experienced, adult only home.