Things You'll Need
- Cat tree
- Cat toys
- Cat beds
- Cardboard boxes
- Cat scratching posts
- Catnip
- Cat treats
- Cat litter boxes
- Clicker
- Laser cat toys
- Cat toys on string
Instructions
Create a play area for your cat by providing him with a cat tree to climb, toys to play with, cat beds to lounge in and cardboard boxes to hide in. Set up the play area near a window, so that your cat can watch birds and other interesting things outdoors, while staying indoors. The play area prevents boredom for your cat, giving him plenty of activities in which to concentrate, instead of performing destructive behaviors.
Place scratching posts near furniture your cat has scratched to redirect this natural behavior to an acceptable outlet. Sprinkle catnip onto the scratching post to attract your cat to it and put double-sided tape on the furniture to discourage your cat from destructively scratching this area. Reward your cat with a treat, if you see him scratching the post.
Give your cat at least two different litter boxes placed in quiet, low-traffic areas of your home that your cat can easily access. If you have multiple cats, provide them with one litter box for each cat plus one extra, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Giving your cat enough litter boxes reduces his stress and prevents him from eliminating in inappropriate places in your home.
Clicker train your cat to teach him to obey you and redirect his attention to you, in case of undesirable behavior. Teach him to associate the noise of the clicker with something positive, by giving him a treat after clicking the device. Do this for about 15 minutes at a time, until the cat responds positively to the clicker. You can then teach him to respond to basic commands, such as "sit," "stay" or "come," by clicking right as your cat performs these actions and giving him a treat.
Interact with your cat to gain his trust and help with his socialization. Use a laser cat toy or a cat toy on a string to play games with your cat during the day, especially in the evening. This will also tire your cat before bedtime, so he sleeps throughout the night and does not disturb you. If your cat responds with any aggression during play, such as biting or hissing, ignore the behavior and end the play session.
Take your cat to a veterinarian, if he exhibits severe aggression or behavioral issues that do not respond to training. Your veterinarian may prescribe prescription medication to help modify your cat's behavior to help him calm down and respond better to positive training.