Introduction: Understanding and Respecting Your Cat's Nature
First and foremost, it's important to avoid reprimanding or punishing your cat, as these methods rarely yield positive results. Instead, focus on creating a fun and enjoyable living environment that satisfies both you and your feline companion. Remember, cats cannot read minds and have limited understanding of English. To address any concerns about your cat's behavior, consult with your veterinarian for guidance.
Issue 1: Aggressive Behavior
Solution: If your cat nips or scratches during play, say "NO" and cease the interaction. Avoid rough play, as cats do not distinguish between playful and aggressive behavior. Reflect upon whether you were touching or scratching a sensitive area of your cat's body. If your cat hisses, leave them alone and check for any signs of injury.
Issue 2: Begging
Solution: Feed your cat just before you sit down to eat, or if the begging is for attention, take a few moments to pet and engage with your cat. Quality attention can go a long way in satisfying their needs.
Issue 3: Constant Meowing
Solution: Have your cat spayed or neutered (which is advisable in any case) to reduce the urge to mate. Provide dedicated quality time for your cat, assuring them that they are cherished. If excessive meowing persists, particularly when using the litter box, consult a veterinarian for further assessment.
Issue 4: Jumping on Counters and Furniture
Solution: To discourage counter and stove jumping, consistently say "NO" and place the cat on the ground. It may take several attempts, but the message will eventually be understood. Another option is to apply double-sided sticky tape on the counter for a day or two, as cats dislike the sticky sensation and will avoid it. Additionally, keep food and other enticing scents off the counter or table. Noisy items that may fall off the counter can also startle and deter the cat, as cats dislike being frightened.
If your cat enjoys perching on furniture you wish to protect, provide them with a comfortable high spot if possible. In our household, we have a small bed placed on top of a wall unit where our female cat can retreat to. If there is specific furniture you want to keep the cat away from, cover it with foil, plastic, or inexpensive netting when you're not at home. Cats dislike the texture and will soon ignore it. You can also explore the option of using "scat mats" available online or at pet stores.
Issue 5: Fighting with Other Cats
Solution: Spaying or neutering your cat is crucial, as it promotes better pet behavior and reduces the likelihood of fights. Never attempt to break up a catfight with your bare hands. Instead, use a hose to spray them, throw a towel over them, or create a loud noise to startle them. If resident cats are in conflict, separate them by placing them in different rooms for a temporary period. In many cases, they will eventually reconcile and become tolerant of each other again.
Remember, some cats may simply dislike each other regardless of your efforts. In such cases, provide separate spaces for each cat, out of sight from one another.
Issue 6: Scratching and Damaging Furniture
Solution: Scratching is an essential part of a cat's life, providing exercise, stretching, stress relief, and claw maintenance. If your cat lacks access to trees or suitable posts, it is your responsibility as a pet owner to provide one. Cats are not too picky about what they scratch as long as it meets their criteria.
Instead of your couch, consider providing a high-quality scratching post. You can either build one yourself or purchase one from a pet store. An ideal scratching post should be at least 2.5 to 3 feet tall, sturdy enough to prevent tipping, and covered with hemp rope or the reverse side of leftover carpet.
Avoid using the front side of the carpet, as it lacks the appropriate texture. You can even create a horizontal scratching surface if your cat prefers it. Affordable cardboard scratching options infused with catnip scent are also available.
When introducing the scratching post, rub some catnip on it to attract your cat. Whenever you catch your cat using the post, praise them and offer a small treat. This positive reinforcement conditions the cat to associate the post with a rewarding experience. If your cat persists in scratching the furniture, simply discouraging them won't solve the problem. Remember that a cat knows better than to engage in a behavior it has been reprimanded for in front of you.
If your cat continues to target specific furniture, make it undesirable by covering it with plastic, foil, double-sided sticky tape, or netting when you're not at home. Additionally, continue showing your cat the scratching post, offering praise and treats for using it. Patience and persistence on your part will eventually lead to your cat leaving your belongings alone.
It's worth noting that cats don't inherently possess bad habits. Climbing, hunting, spraying, biting, fighting, and scratching are all natural behaviors for cats. As humans, we have brought these incredible creatures from the wild, domesticated them, and imposed our own rules upon them. It's essential to understand and respect their innate nature while guiding them to coexist harmoniously in our homes.
