Answer to this Question

Answer provided 7/14/2004 12:16:49 AM

Q. Hi, i have a cat thats about a year old, and he has been misbehaving quite a lot for the past 5 months. He isnt around other cats, just humans and he constantly knocks things over. Just today he tried to get on the topmost shelf of my closet, and by doing so, knocked the whole shelf down along with everything on it. I understand that he`s curious and will do whatever it takes to get to where he wants to go, but im also thinking maybe its because as a kitten i didnt teach him where to and not to go. He also play fights with me constantly, because i used to when he was small but now i`ve been trying to teach him to slow it down or stop completely because he`s scratching up my whole body. He only does this to me. he never does this to men, which they`ve played with him just as rough as i used to. i want him to understand that i am the "master" or the one who sets things straight, and not him dominating my apartment. its almost like he patrols the apartment an my word or actions dont count at all. Please help.

A. Well, at least you're honest enough to recognize that you seem to have reinforced the behavior you are now dealing with. One thing you need to bear in mind, is that it would be unkind not to mention unrealistic to change it all back overnight since you conditioned your cat to expect praise and feedback when it behaved this way. You can help by now trying to *Gently* do things in reverse to reinforce the behavior you want. Some products on the market to help reinforce the behavor you want will help for the "praise" part. For instance, try *misting* your cat with a plant sprayer with water (no shouting...it doesn't pay to make cats mad) when you DON'T want your cat somewhere. If your cat is scratching in the wrong place, remove him promptly and put him near a scratcher with catnip on it or Kitty Kaviar.
http://www.handsnpaws.com/category/catsupplies/

Protect your furniture with a Cataround and Sticky Paws. The Cataround is a new type of scratching post on the market. It is a behavioral modification device used as an alternative to declawing your cat to prevent damage from their natural instinct to scratch and effectively groom their nails. This helps protect the vulnerable corner position of your furniture while satisfying your cats need to scratch.

By redirecting their scratching from your furniture or drapes to the scratching post, and then slowly relocating the scratching post, you will be changing their destructive behavior and redirecting their energy into healthy exercise. You can find it here:


http://www.handsnpaws.com/category/catsupplies.scratchers/

The sticky paws are another interesting device to use.
They stop cats from destroying your furniture without the use of nasty chemicals. These are transparent sticky strips that apply to fabric, yet are easily removed without causing damage. They can be used on furniture, drapes, countertops, stereo speakers, carpets, and just about anywhere. Transparent Sticky Paws are also non-toxic so they won't harm your cat or furniture. It's water soluble and the specially formulated adhesive won't yellow fabric or leave sticky residue when removed. Your cat can't see the strips, but once he starts feeling the sticky sensation on his paws, he will learn to stay away. They're quite affordable at $9.60.


http://www.handsnpaws.com/product/DOTRNCATSTICKY


Play with a mitt that protects your hands if you want to play, or select interactive games where you are at a distance, such as pole toys where your cat can't get at you.

We love to play "Fetch" with a cute furry mouse toy. We toss it and let the cat play catch. Here's a delightful one here:
http://www.handsnpaws.com/product/WPSCTOYCAT3862


Above all, you have to do this patiently, without yelling, and results will be overtime. A cat is seldom going to listen to words alone. They're not dogs. And they are predators. So if we brought out that behavior, they're only following instinct.

Some cats fight when they're overly stimulated. Try playing with them to get out all of that energy. They'll have less time for tearing up furniture later. Many people think toys are just for dogs. It's important to have them for cats. Cats are very playful. They can get bored easily with the same toys.

Smart cat toys are excellent for relieving boredom:
http://www.handsnpaws.com/product/FX2WPSCTOYCAT3833
We find this one of the best because it's tailored to aggressive pets. The toy box allows cats to "capture" their toys by fishing them out of strategically placed access holes. Indoor-only cats have a special need for stimulating activities that will keep them mentally and physically fit. When interactive play with the owner is not possible, your smart cat needs suitable toys for solo play.

Cat house toys are also becoming popular
http://www.handsnpaws.com/product/WPVTGETOYCAT
We really like this big cheese wedge house. This kitty fun house is not only fun, but makes a cozy hideaway for catnaps. You know how your cats love to crawl into places and play. They love curling into the nooks and crannies of a big wedge of cheese.

At the same time, know when they want to stop. If you stimulate them too much, they start swiping and scratching. You're getting on their nerves. In other words, if you want your cat to listen to you, you have to listen to your cat. If when you're playing your cat starts to bite or scratch, one trick is to "play dead." It tends to make them stop. You can then continue playing. If it hurts, say "NO" or "OUCH" loudly and walk away. Ignore your cat. Cats do react to this.

Give your cat toys they can chew to pieces if they want to. We find big stuffed toys are great for this. Popular cat toys are:
Tunnels, sisal rope, scratching posts, balls, kitty condos, chirping bird cat toys, wand toys, cat crazies, crazy spinners, fur mice, fat cat toys, tuff toys and of course, lots and lots of catnip.

If your cat is stressed out, try something like Bach Rescue Remedy
http://www.handsnpaws.com/product/GEHEALTHRESCUEREM
Described as a "a first-aid kit in a bottle" for its multiple uses, this mixture of flower essences, has a number of practical purposes to alleviate stress, fear and shock for your pets. Given right after a shock or fright, this remedy will take effect quickly to soothe and calm your pet.

You must also consider, if there is a sudden change in your cat's behavior that it could be a health issue and you should see your vet. As usual, our advice is based on experience with animals and research. See your vet for specific information. Good luck.

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