well, here is an update. Big Kitty has settled down with his new circumstances and seems to be doing okay. I am only locking him up while I am away from home and at night. And, he has a kitty door from the laundry room to the garage (where his cat box is) so he can go wander in the garage and there is a window in the garage with a large benchlike area in front of it where he can perch and watch. We have closed the doors to the bedrooms so he cannot get on the beds, but he was quite content to lay in front of the fireplace last night on top of a puddle pad and also on the couch.

Not, such a bad life especially for a cat who just sleeps all day long anyway. So, we will see how things go, but I don't think he feels punished and he seems to be fine. I think he is adapting pretty well; as he used to be a garage kitty for the first 12 years of his life anyway. And, up until three years ago, he was not allowed to get on furniture at all. Yes, he is a very smart trainable cat and never got on furniture when he was not supposed to.

So, I am in a holding pattern to see how things go. If he is in pain or not doing well in other areas, quits eating, etc., this will probably change; but right now, he is doing okay with his change in circumstances.

Thanks everyone for your input. It was nice to hear other people's opinions. I'll keep you posted.