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Filtered by tag ('cat behaviour')

Help! My cat won’t stop biting me

 by yunus on 13 Nov 2018 |
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Our felines bite for a variety of reasons. It’s important to understand the root of the problem before you can address Kitty’s behavior.  Whether it’s a playful nibble or a serious clip, biting is a problem behavior in cats. Our felines bite for a variety of reasons, so it’s important to understand the root of the problem before you can address Kitty’s behavior.   From social play to a means of getting attention, biting serves a range of functions for cats. Especially in kittens, biting is used as a non-aggressive part of playtime, but this can become a problem when Kitty gets overzealous and bites too hard on a human. Biting can also be used to show dominance, however, and it’s important to distinguish between the two. Some telltale signs that your cat is challenging you for the lead role in the home include aggressive displays such as growling or hissing that accompany his biting. If your pet does this, or biting isn’t accompanied by playful behavior or cuddling, you can be sure he’s trying to show he’s in charge. Some cats also prefer a friendly nibble to meow when they want your attention. If your cat bites and then attempts to lead you to the food bowl, a door he wants to be opened or a litter box that needs cleaning, he is most likely using biting as a form of communication. Cats may also meow after a nibble if the behavior is meant to get your attention.   Whatever is causing your cat to bite, most owners agree it’s not a desirable behavior. Once you have determined the cause of Kitty’s biting, you can address the behavior. Cats that are simply trying to play will benefit from a variety of toys and new objects to investigate, such as paper bags or cardboard boxes. Playing with your cat for at least a few minutes each day using a fishing pole or other toy will also help curb his biting—as long as you don’t let him treat your hands like a toy. If your cat becomes too rough, put him in “time out” by immediately ending the game, so he will learn boundaries over time. Cats that are biting to show dominance require a more disciplined approach. Use a louder, firm tone to show your cat you are in charge at home and, if he’s not already neutered, consider getting your pet fixed, as unneutered males tend to be the most dominant cats. If your pet is simply biting to get your attention, however, the best response is to ignore him. Eventually, Kitty will learn that biting does not earn him the attention he needs and will try a different approach.   When training a cat not to bite, consistency is crucial. While biting can often be cute or playful, especially in kittens, you should never encourage this behavior. Your cat is less unlikely to understand the difference between different types of biting, so treat all biting the same by discouraging the behavior. Remember, never physically punish your cat for biting, as this can only escalate rough play or lead to fearful aggression from your pet.  

Why all cats don’t hunt mice

 by lucy on 30 Aug 2018 |
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Not all cats want to hunt mice. Contrary to popular belief hunting is a learned skill. Every cat owner has watched his pet stalk and attack his favorite toy, but not all domesticated felines actually hunt and kill prey. It turns out, hunting is a learned behavior and our companions must watch other cats to hone the skill.   All animals are born with instinctual behaviors that help them survive. A kitten does not need to watch another cat to know how to nurse, for example, but he does observe adult cats to learn other life skills. Unlike instinctual actions, these learned behaviors take time and experience to master through trial, error and observation. Researchers long wondered whether cats engaged in hunting instinctually or learned to stalk and kill prey by watching their mothers until one nineteenth century scientist sought to answer the question. In his decade-long experiment, Professor Kuo Zing Yang raised several solitary kittens without influence from their mothers at the same time he cared for families of felines. He found that more kittens raised by hunting mothers grew up to be hunters themselves, while kittens raised by humans or mothers who didn’t hunt were more likely to ignore prey than chase it down.   While his study provided evidence that young cats learn to hunt from their mothers, the professor’s findings don’t mean cats are born entirely without hunting instincts. Housecats have no need to track prey for food, but a playful feline will still chase down a piece of string, catnip mouse or other toy. Our pets are born with the instinct to follow movement, then, but must hone their skills to become artful hunters. Without a mother cat to bring home prey and teach her kittens to hunt and consume it by example, many cats simply retain their chasing instincts without the desire to actually stalk and kill.   You can tap into your pet’s instinct to follow movement by engaging him in play with a fishing pole, balls or wads of paper that roll across the floor, stuffed animals, a laser pointer or other toys. Look for models that will spark your pet’s interest in searching, stalking and chasing to help keep your pet fit both mentally and physically. Switch out toys regularly to keep things interesting—and remember to never use your hand as a toy, as this can lead to bad habits.

Six subtle signs your cat loves you

 by yunus on 21 Mar 2018 |
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Cats are infamous for their hot-and-cold behavior, making feline affection hard to read. If you’re questioning whether your companion really cares, here are some subtle signs of affection you might not be noticing:     Going belly-up: Your cat’s stomach is one of his most vulnerable spots and by lying relaxed on his back, he’s letting his guard down. This shows a high level of comfort and trust. That goes double of your pet lets you rub his stomach, though most cat owners advise against this, as a belly rub can go South at a moment’s notice.   Giving a ‘slow blink’: In the feline world, closing your eyes in the presence of another animal is the ultimate sign of trust. If your cat is giving you a leisurely blink, he’s showing you he feels safe around you. You can return this gesture to strengthen your bond with your cat, or use it to show you’re not a threat when meeting a new feline.   Butting heads: Cats have scent glands in their cheeks that they use to mark our legs, hands, faces and other familiar objects. Technically known as “bunting,” head-butting releases pheromones from these glands that cats associate with comfort and social bonding. Placing his face so close to yours is also sign of trust on your pet’s part, making head-butting a true sign of affection.   Gift giving: You may not treasure the mouse bladder left outside your bedroom door, but gift giving is a sign of adoration from your cat. Leaving prey or his toys for you means your cat considers you part of his family and wants to provide for you.   Midnight cuddles: Not all cats like to openly display affection and some sneaky felines will engage in late-night snuggle sessions while their owner is fast asleep. If you wake up with your pet on your chest, face or side, it’s a sure sign he feels comfortable around you.   Sharing space: Cats are not always overly warm, so even opting to share the same space as you can be a sign of affection. Each cat is different and some will show they care about their humans by sitting just out of reach, at the foot of the bed or even in the same room. Whether Kitty is choosing to spend time in your lap or on an adjacent chair, you can be sure that lounging nearby is a sign he cares.

Tips to stop your cat from biting

 by lucy on 20 Dec 2017 |
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Whether it’s an affectionate action or a move made in self-defense, biting is a problem when it comes to cats. To address the issue, you must first examine what’s causing your cat to bite and then tackle the underlying problem.   Cats—especially kittens—engage in rough play such as stalking, chasing, pouncing, swatting, kicking and biting. This not only helps them hone their hunting skills, but is a key part of social play. Unfortunately, this friendly behavior can leave you with scratches that can become infected. Biting can also be a form of communication for cats and your feline may be using his teeth to tell you something— that he’s hungry, wants you to open a door, or the litter box needs cleaning. If your pet tries to lead you somewhere or meows immediately after he bites, he likely is aiming to direct your attention to his needs. Cats also bite when feeling stressed or anxious. This can be due to anything from loud music or roughhousing children to introducing a new pet to the household. Animals also bite to assert dominance, and your cay may be using this behavior to declare himself chief of the household. You’ll know your pet is trying to be alpha if his biting is not playful, he does not attempt to cuddle afterwards, or he refuses to back down.   To stop your pet from biting, you must first evaluate what is causing the behavior. If Kitty is using his mouth in self-defense against boisterous children, for example, try putting your pet in a separate room before they arrive. Keep your home as calm as possible and minimize changes if your pet’s biting seems linked to stress. If your cat is biting as a part of playtime, provide him with plenty of toys and alternative sources of entertainment. Engaging your cat in play about twice a day with a catnip mouse, fishing pole, or other toy not only redirects his hunting instincts away from your hands and feet, but also reinforces the bond you share with your pet. You might even consider getting a second cat for your pet to play with or building him an outdoor enclosure to burn off extra energy. And remember— never use your fingers as toys when playing with your cat.   While you should never strike or shout at your pet, you can clap your hands and say “No” firmly when he bites. If you are playing, put your cat in “timeout” by ending the game immediately and walking away. You may also want to keep a squirt bottle nearby and use it immediately after your cat bites. Some owners find success keeping toys on hand to throw and redirect a biting feline’s attention. With consistent training, your pet should adjust his biting behavior.

Four ways to ensure you have a happy indoor cat

 by lucy on 20 Nov 2017 |
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Indoor cats live safer, longer lives, but some pet owners worry their feline friends’ mental and physical wellbeing suffer without the excitement of the outdoors. The truth is that housecats can and do get bored, but there are some simple steps you can take to help your indoor pet lead a fulfilling life. Here are a few ideas:   1. Give him plenty of stimulation: One of the best ways to keep Kitty happy and physically fit is to provide him with plenty of stimulation. This means playing with your cat every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. You can use a fishing rod toy, throw a catnip mouse, or even dangle a piece of yarn to engage your pet in play. This doesn’t just keep him mentally tuned in, but also reinforces the bond you share with your pet. For when you’re not at home, provide your cat with plenty of spaces to climb and hide—especially perches by the window. Cats are natural explorers and will enjoy watching the goings-on outside. Because cats need to exercise their claws, too, provide your pet with acceptable scratching surfaces, such as a scratching post or cat tower.   2. Groom him regularly: Cats spend a great deal of time grooming each other in groups, and brushing your cat regularly will help him feel closer to you. Groom your cat regularly or even every day to removes loose hair, which helps prevent hairballs and keeps your house cleaner. As a bonus, regular grooming gives you a chance to check on your pet’s physical state and makes it more likely you’ll notice any sores or other health problems if they appear.   3. Nix litter box problems: If you have multiple indoor cats, another great way to keep them happy is providing them with the right number of litter boxes. Felines don’t like to share, so this means one litter box per cat. Most cats prefer open pans to closed ones and a secluded location that’s not too far out of the way. Clean litter boxes regularly and you’ll greatly reduce chances of having a cat eliminate outside the box, which will keep your home clean and you happy, too.   4. Offer him green spaces: A less familiar way to keep indoor felines feeling good is offering them a small pot of grass. Cats outside nibble grass to aid their digestion, and indoor cats will appreciate this opportunity, too. Most cat grass mixes contain barley, oats or wheat and can be purchased online.   5. Spend quality time together: Cats are more likely to feel content when they share a strong bond with their owners. Spend plenty of time with your feline and even allow him to sleep in your bed to strengthen your bond, ensuring you have a happy, loving companion.

Why cats go crazy after they poop

 by lucy on 31 Oct 2017 |
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You may think your cat is alone in his frenzied behavior following a trip to the litter box, but the truth is, many cats bolt after using the bathroom. Scientists have actually studied the phenomenon and, while no one is exactly sure what causes Kitty’s bizarre behavior, they agree that it is a normal, healthy part of feline life.   Compared to their canine counterparts, cats have incredibly tidy bathroom habits. The vast majority bury their waste, which likely stems back to their days as wild cats. Though they are hunters themselves, cats also serve as prey for larger animals. The sight and smell of droppings can clue predators in that a potential meal is nearby, so it makes sense for Kitty to bury his droppings. According to this theory, running from his waste is simply another measure your cat takes to avoid becoming a predator’s next meal. The theory helps explain why dominant pets don’t always bury their bunk, too: Cats communicate by scent and top felines will leave their droppings as a way to mark territory. Rather than fleeing from his enemies, a confident cat may be ready to fight for his terrain.   Of course, not all experts agree with this evolutionary explanation. Though it sounds plausible, there is little research into whether cats actually run from their waste in the wild. Other theories attempting to explains cats’ strange bathroom behavior suggest that it simply boils down to feeling good. Researchers site evidence of this “poo-phoria” in the vagus nerve, which connects the brainstem to the colon and creates a pleasurable sensation associated with defecating. Other theories say that the frenzied sprint following a trip to the bathroom may be your cats’ ways of seeking attention and approval for his accomplishment as a grown-up pet taking care of himself.   There are, of course, medical issues that can cause your cat to run from his litterbox. Pets experiencing diarrhea or other digestive problems may want to distance themselves from the problem. Fleeing the litter box can also be a sign your cat is suffering from a urinary tract infection, kidney stones, inflammation of the colon or rectum, or even a food allergy. If you suspect your pet’s bathroom behavior is due to a medical issue, take him to the veterinarian. Fortunately, whether it boils down to instinct or “poo-phoria,” experts agree that in most cases running from the litter box is normal feline behavior.

How to stop cats from attacking your feet

 by lucy on 18 Aug 2017 |
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When we shuffle around in flip flops or shoes with bouncing laces, our feet look can look an awful lot like prey to cats. The same goes when our toes are under a blanket, wrapped in socks or even when we go barefoot. While you can’t stop your cats’ predator instincts, you can redirect them, providing Kitty with acceptable ways to expel energy without assaulting your toes.   Sneak attacks on feet come when cats aren’t quite clear about where their toys end and humans begin. This all comes down to socialization, which helps explain why kittens are especially pernicious when it comes to pouncing on feet. Often, young felines have not learned to rope in their energy or differentiate between “play thing” and “person.” While rough play is important to kittens developing physical coordination and problem-solving skills, humans can misinterpret their stalking, chasing, pouncing, swatting and biting for aggression.   Knowing what’s okay to play-attack and what isn’t comes down to Kitty’s socialization, making it important to draw clear boundaries for your pet from a young age. If your pet pounces on your feet under the covers, offer him a toy instead. If he attacks you on the stairs, try to carry a few toys to drop and redirect his attention. When he plays with the toys instead of your toes, offer your cat praise. While punishing a feline doesn’t work, time-outs do: Any time your pet plays too rough, end the game by leaving the room. Don’t pick him up, as this can encourage more playful biting or scratching.   In addition to setting boundaries, helping your cat act out his predator instincts in positive ways can tire him out and reduce his desire to stalk your feet. Playing with your cat using a fishing pole or other toy not only helps him expel excess energy, but builds a bond between you and your pet. Offer your cat a variety of toys and frequently give him new objects to explore, such as paper bags or cardboard boxes. You can even build an outdoor enclosure for your cat or consider buying a second cat for a playmate to help keep your pet stimulated both mentally and physically. Just remember to never let your pet bat at your feet, hands or other body parts during playtime, as this sends mixed messages.   Of course, there are occasions in which a cat’s rough play is actually aggression. It can be hard to differentiate between the two, but watching your cat’s body language can help you decipher whether he’s being social or picking a fight. Cats playing tend to be quiet and engage in behaviors such as a sideways hop. During aggressive encounters, however, cats tend to growl and hiss. Nervous, anxious or fearful cats are more prone to aggression and a trained animal behaviorist can help address these problems.

What is petting-induced aggression?

 by lucy on 25 Mar 2017 |
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We’ve all had the jarring experience of a cat jumping onto our laps, purring away, only to watch Kitty flip and suddenly give us an angry bite or swat just minutes later. This Jekyll-and-Hyde behavior may seem strange to humans, but to our feline friends, petting-induced aggression makes perfect sense.   Cats are not, by nature, close-contact animals. Accepting human affection is a learned behavior and some cats have a very low tolerance for touch. Once this threshold is passed, cats actually feel discomfort, rather than pleasure, from petting. It’s no wonder our pets want us to stop lavishing them with love, but humans are often obvious to the overstimulation taking place. Fortunately, cats use a series of body language to let us know when they’ve had enough affection and it’s time to back off.   Telltale signs that Kitty is fast approaching his affection quota include tail lashing, skin twitching, a shift in body posture, meowing or growling, flattened ears, and meeting you or your hand with a direct gaze. If your cat exhibits any of these signs, stop petting him immediately and leave him alone. If you continue petting him, chances are your pet will lash out by biting or clawing you as, in his mind, he’s already told you to back off.   All cats are different and you may be surprised by your pet’s boundaries when it comes to physical affection. Most cats don’t like belly rubs, for example, but some feel just as uncomfortable being stroked down their backs. Learning your cat’s favorite spots to be pet—and which to avoid— will help build trust between you and your pet. With time, you’ll be able to gauge your cat’s individual preferences and know when to stop petting even before he exhibits any warning signs.   Because petting-induced aggression is your cat’s last resort at communication, never punish your pet for lashing out. In his mind, your cat has already given you ample warnings to stop, all of which you ignored. Yelling, chasing or hitting your cat will only make him afraid of you and damage your bond. Instead, watch your cat’s body language to learn when he is enjoying affection and when he’s had enough. Ending a snuggle session on a positive note not only leaves your cat wanting more, but ensures that physical touch stays a positive part of you and your cat’s relationship.   If your cat is exhibiting sudden petting-induced aggression, you may want to visit a veterinarian to rule out pain as the source of his moody behavior. Cats with a tender spot could lash out when you touch the sore area, for example, so it is helpful to find out if Kitty has an abscess, arthritis or other physical ailment. Be sure to supervise children around your cat, too, since they are unlikely to recognize the warning signs that come before petting-induced aggression.

What does hissing mean?

 by lucy on 08 Dec 2016 |
2 Comment(s)
Every cat owner is familiar with the sharp, sibilant sound of hissing— the noise cats make to express fear, aggression, displeasure or uncertainty. Because hissing is your cats way of saying something’s wrong, you should never punish him for the behavior, but rather seek to understand what’s upsetting him.   Cats hiss by forcing air out through their arched tongues, creating a burst of wind from their mouths. Other behaviors that accompany hissing include your cat pulling his lips back, flattening his ears to his head and arching his back in a threatening stance. The whole purpose of the disturbing display is to express a warning— that a stranger is too close, that your pet feels threatened or that something is hurting your cat. While he uses hissing to ward off potential opponents and avoid fights, it’s a warning sign that aggression will follow if the perceived threat doesn’t cease and you should take this threat seriously.   To avoid being bitten or scratched, you need to understand what is causing Kitty’s conniption fits. Cats hiss due to territorial aggression, for example, especially when a new pet is introduced to the home. Assess any recent changes to you pet’s environment, being sure to introduce newcomers slowly by confining the new pet for the first few days to allow the cats adjust to each other’s scents. If your cat is hissing at human strangers, give guests with advanced warning before they visit and gradually introduce your cat to trusted outsiders so he learns that company isn’t a always a threat. Cats also hiss when they feel scared. If this is the case, take steps to make your pet feel more comfortable in his home: Provide Kitty with plenty of hiding places, perches and other nooks, and consider using Feliway, a mood-enhancing synthetic pheromone that signals feelings of comfort for cats. If your cat is hissing due to aggression, however, the solution may be more play to expel pent-up energy and providing outlets such as scratching posts. Cats also hiss when they’re forced to do something they don’t want to do, such as get in the pet carrier, and the best solution for this type of fit is to remain calm and introduce the undesirable activity slowly so your pet has time to adjust. If all else fails and you must get your cat to do the undesirable, use thick gloves or oven mitts to avoid being scratched.   If none of the above sounds like your pet, he may be hissing due to pain, injury or discomfort. Consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical causes if your cat has started hissing or has ramped up the behavior recently and you can’t figure out why. Remember, hissing is a sign that something’s wrong and you should never punish your cat for the behavior. Instead, work to discover the underlying problem and address it so Kitty feels safe and secure in his home.

Why do cats knead?

 by lucy on 24 Nov 2016 |
1 Comment(s)
If you’re a cat owner, you’ve no doubt experienced your feline friend kneading away as he purrs on your lap. A soothing behaviour for cats and owners alike, kneading starts long before our pets are independent adults, when they relied on their mothers for both food and protection. Kneading describes the rhythmic motion cats make when they alternate pushing their paws in and out against a soft, pliable surface. Not all felines knead, and those that do don’t all knead in the same way. Some cats make the motion with their claws out, for example, while others never use nails during kneading. Some felines knead with all four paws, while others use just their front two feet. Regardless of your cat’s style, his kneading behaviour stems from his time as a kitten. Before they’re able to feed on their own, cats instinctually knead at their mother as a way to stimulate milk production. Though the behaviour doesn’t yield a tasty treat for adult cats, our pets forever associate the motion with the comforts of nursing. This helps explain why your cat makes a habit of kneading you when he’s feeling happy, content or displaying affection.   Cats don’t just stretch their paws when they’re at peace, however, and also use kneading as a way to limber up after a long nap. Kneading likely provided our felines’ ancestors with a way of bedding down, too, helping to work down tall grasses while scoping out the area out for snakes and other unwanted visitors. Kneading also served another role for feral felines, who used scent glands in their paws to mark their territory. In the same way wild cats use their scent to demarcate their property, then, so do our domestic pets knead to release their scent on surfaces that want to mark as their own— including their favourite humans. Female cats are also known to knead when going into heat as a way to signal to tomcats that they are ready and able to mate. Though kneading is a sign of affection, it can be quite painful when Kitty digs his claws into your leg. If this becomes an issue, simply place a soft barrier such as a thick blanket between your lap and his claws. You can also try trimming your cat’s nails or using nail guards to cover his claws. Never punish your cat for kneading, though— not only does he not realize it hurts, but digging his claws into your leg is your cat’s way of showing affection.
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