Your cat seems to be trying desperately to tell you that she is badly stressed by the kittens that you have imposed on her territory. She is feeling displaced and perhaps threatened and harrassed by the kittens. Feliway, while a useful product in many cases, isn't enough to make most cats feel comfortable about having their territory invaded - particularly if the cat was an only cat who never had to share territory with another feline before.

Your cat needs to feel that her status as top cat isn't being compromised, that your family's affection for her hasn't diminished, and most of all that she is safe in her own home. You need to make sure that the kittens are NOT allowed to pester or harrass her in any way, including stealing her favorite sleeping spots, eating out of her bowl, bothering her while she is trying to use the litterbox, or taking your attention away from her. She needs to know that you will keep her protected from the kittens. She needs to see you move the kittens off of her favorite spots so that she can have them. She needs to see you ignore the kittens and spend time with her instead. If necessary, she needs you to put the kittens into a separate room when you are not home so that she won't be harassed in your absence.

Your first cat deserves to be treated with respect and compassion. You have created a great discomfort in her life, and now you are obliged to help her through this transition ... even when she marks your leg or anything else. Cats are not creatures who embrace change kindly. Don't punish your cat for responding like a cat. Love her and help her, instead.

Laurie