Help! For the second time, Amy has lost a mouse. How do I get her to go for the kill?
I've tried petting (an 'I know you're busy right now' light rub) and praise in a kitty-appropriate voice while she still has the mouse in her mouth, so I think she realizes I believe she's done a good thing. And my temptation - both times - was to open the door and have Amy drop the rodent on the porch. But it's in the 20s outside, and besides, Amy is strictly an indoor cat.
Amy has killed a couple of mice in the past (one of which I only discovered after wondering what velcro item I had put in the dryer), so I know she is capable. And Amy can be talkative.
Suggestions?
best,
john