Knowing the different cat behaviour problems that can affect your pet is essential so you can take better care of your feline friend. Here are some of the common ones.
Not Using the Litter Box
One of the most common cat behaviour problems is not using the litter box. The good news is, there are several things you can do to correct the issue. For one, make sure your cat isn’t suffering from a disease that makes it difficult for them to control their bladder or bowels. Once you notice your cat urinating or defecating anywhere other than the litter box, take him or her to the vet for a physical examination.
If there is nothing wrong with your cat’s health, consider changing the location of the little box where it is more easily accessible, and preferably away from where they eat and drink. You might also want to place it in a more peaceful location.
Keeping the litter box clean is especially important, so consider cleaning it at least once a day, or twice if you have a finicky feline. Sometimes, the problem may be with the litter. Experiment with different litters starting with natural choices in case the behaviour is related to allergies. If you own more than one cat, it’s best to provide at least one little box per cat so they have plenty of space to be comfortable; this is also a good idea should one of your cats be ill or to prevent parasites from spreading, such as worms or fleas.
Aggression
If your pet hasn’t always been aggressive, there’s a good chance that he or she hasn’t been getting enough opportunity to play. Sometimes biting, wrestling, tackling, and scratching are ways your cat plays with you. Refrain from using your hands and feet to play with him and use scarves, feathers, and other toys instead.
Unfixed male cats tend to be aggressive and this could affect the mood of the other cats in your house. The solution? Spay or neuter your pet. It’s also important for your vet to see your cat if the aggression persists after this procedure, because it could be caused by sickness or pain.
Scratching Curtains or Furniture
Scratching is normal for most cats, but to keep your pet from tearing apart your curtains and furniture, install several scratching posts throughout the house. If your cat continues to scratch, it is essential to trim their claws or, if you’re too nervous about doing that yourself, let your vet handle it.
Yowling
Yowling and excessive meowing is common in cats during the breeding season. If your pet has been neutered or spayed and still meows and howls a lot, check if he or she is thirsty, hungry, or in pain. Unless you know exactly what is causing your cat to make such noises, don’t ignore meowing or yowling.
Behavior Problems Due to Old Age
Behavior problems in cats could also be caused by old age. If your pet is showing signs of disorientation, decreased activity, erratic sleeping patterns, increased anxiety, and instances of aggression, as well as any radical changes in the way he or she socializes with you or the other pets in your home, your cat may be suffering from feline cognitive dysfunction or FCD. It’s best to check with your vet to confirm if the behaviour problems stem from FCD because it’s also possible that your cat is suffering from treatable medical illnesses.
Cat behaviour problems can be caused by a variety of reasons that differ from one animal to another. To deal with those issues effectively, make sure to consult with your vet first to rule out illnesses or pain your pet may be experiencing.
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