It can be very difficult to train your cat as they have a tendency to develop their own behaviors. Unlike dogs, cats are not able to tell you when they are doing something wrong. The only way to curb this is to learn what your cat is most likely doing to get into trouble.
An Overview
Cat behaviors that need to be curbed are excessive scratching, marking their territory with urine or excrement, biting and fighting with other cats or animals, and the most common of all cat behaviors is biting. These behaviors are usually developed during a young age. Many times kittens are not properly raised and learn how to act in society by being socialized with other kittens. When this happens, there can be serious behavioral problems.
One thing that is associated with scratching is that it is a way for your feline friends to keep themselves clean. There are several reasons for this. If a cat is scratching and making himself completely comfortable, he is relieving his body of excess moisture and warm air. This is a natural way to try to keep himself cool and moist. If he is doing this while not getting enough exercise, he may also be trying to fulfill a need to satisfy his instinct to mark his territory.
Training Tips
If you have not trained your cat, there are many things that can cause him to scratch. There are several common cat behaviors that result from this natural urge. A cat may have a problem with his nails if he is not clipped as a kitten. Trimming them regularly helps to keep them healthy. They should be long enough to be able to curl back without being too long.
Since there are so many different types of cat behaviors, one of the most confusing is the inability to read body language. If you pick up a cat from the litterbox and notice that he does not approach you, this could be because he is trying to get some attention. You can usually tell if he is tense or nervous just by looking at him.
Another example is that an adult cat that is normally meowing but does not usually approach you may be anxious, stressed, or even fearful. These types of behaviors can all be treated with simple observation and patience. If you notice that your adult cat is either meowing very repetitively, meowing in a low voice, or starts meowing at unusual times, visit your veterinarian. Your vet will probably start him on a prescription for some muscle relaxant or maybe even a tranquilizer.
Many people think of kneading behaviors as cute, loving cat behaviors, but these behaviors can have serious consequences. Often the meowing starts when they become ill or injured. Knead your cat and get him to lie down on your bed or couch. Sometimes you can get him to knead with his front paws, which is better for his circulation. Cats that knead, often begin licking their paws after they are done kneading, so it’s important to stay close by and see what he is doing.
Basic Behaviours
Cat behaviors are as unique to their owners as their personalities. Some of these behaviors are cute, loving, and acceptable, but others are not. Understanding feline behavior is the first step to being a successful cat owner. Visit your local vet and ask questions about feline behavior; it will help you understand your cat.
You might notice that one of your feline friends has a behavior problem that is similar to excessive grooming or nail clipping. Watch her from a distance and observe how she reacts to other cats, you may notice that she likes to scratch too much or she is overly affectionate. Pay close attention to these behaviors and be willing to remove her from the room if she is exhibiting any of them.
A meow is an indicator that your cat has established a communication line with you. If you cannot hear her meow, then she is not communicating with you. Find out what she is trying to say by either touching her or making noise in her direction. Some of the most common cat behavior problems include meowing when outside, meowing at the sound of your voice, meowing while playing, or excessive grooming of her coat. Examine all of these behaviors and look for anything unusual.
Conclusion
Another feline behavior problem that can be quite frustrating for pet owners is barking. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine whether your pet is barking at something or its natural instinct to protect its territory. A great way to help train your pet to stop barking is to give her a reward. Cats enjoy rewards like food and toys and will do whatever they are rewarded for. Once you have taught your cat these commands, you will both be happier and healthier.
