Cat Behavioral Problems

Cat behavior can be frustratingly mystifying to their human caregivers. Without warning, your docile, purring pet sinks her claws into your forearm. You look out the window and your friendly, loving companion is stalking a defenseless chipmunk. Your couch is clawed to shreds and your living room smells slightly...catty. Most "bad" cat behaviors are signs of boredom or illness or simply an expression of your cat's natural instincts. If you understand the reasons behind difficult behavior issues, you will be better able to manage them.

  1. Litter Box Issues

    • If your cat stops using the litter box, it can be a sign of a bladder or urinary-tract illness. Other signs of urinary tract difficulties include blood in the urine and straining to urinate.

      Older, arthritic cats may have trouble getting into a high-sided box or, if the box is remotely located, not be mobile enough to get there. Provide lower-sided boxes in multiple locations for your senior cat.

      Cats develop kitty litter and litter box preferences. If your cat is using the litter box regularly and reliably, don't change litters. If you must, do so gradually. Be sure the box is kept scrupulously clean and is located in a quiet area. Some cats like to have two boxes: one for urine and one for feces. If you have multiple cats, each should have a box if possible.

    Furniture Clawing

    • Clawing of furniture and carpets is a common complaint among cat owners. Cats scratch to stretch their muscles, sharpen their claws and mark their territory. Wild cats accomplish this by scratching trees. Domestic cats use your upholstery and drapes.

      Provide your cat with appropriate substitutes. Scratching posts of various materials---carpet, sisal and corrugated cardboard---provide appealing surfaces for experimentation.

    Cat Fights

    • Sometimes new cat introductions go smoothly, with both animals accepting---albeit cautiously---their new housemate. Other times, the fur flies. Cats are not big fans of change, and if your cat has been the sole ruler of his little kingdom for a long time, do not expect immediate acceptance of a newcomer.

      The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommends that you neuter or spay all cats in the household. Feed them separately and be sure they have access to private space.

    Hunting

    • Cats are predators and they will stalk and kill small rodents, birds and reptiles if given the chance. According to the ASPCA, a collar bell may help reduce the carnage. They suggest that you "Attach a bell to your cat's quick-release collar. Some studies have found that a bell reduces a cat's success at killing birds and mammals by as much as 50 percent." Other studies have shown less success, and some cat lovers feel that the bell may be annoying to the cat.

    Aggression Toward People

    • You're petting your cat gently, and suddenly she swings around and claws you. What gives? Is she displaying aggression? Probably not. True aggression, according to the ASPCA, is accompanied by hissing and spitting and is the result of fear or a perceived threat. Most likely, your cat is having a little fun with you. When cats play, they can play rough, engaging in mock aggression and play fighting. This sometimes translates into a painful scratch or bite for their non-feline playmates.

      Do not physically punish your cat for this behavior or it might turn into true aggression. If play gets too rough, simply walk away. Game over.