How to Solve Common House Cat Problems

Cats have always become popular pets in households stretching about the globe. The charming ball of fur that lies across your lap and purrs in the middle of the night is a companion that often asserts its independence more than the beloved canine. With a relaxing softness, some believe that cats can do no wrong.

When you speak to someone with torn furniture and scratches on his or her arms, they will tell you different. Cats do possess behavioral issues, but the good news is – none come without a remedy when approached with patience and consistency.

Before you enter the world of cat discipline and training, you should take your feline to the vet. Sometimes, cats act out when they are stressed or have undergone a sudden change in their life, such as a move or new baby in the house. Cats may use the furniture as a scratching pole, ignore the litter box, and spray items in the household. Also, when cats are sick, they tend to face difficulties making it in time to the litter box.

Not Using the Litter Box

Cats are quite particular when it comes to their litter box. When their litter isn’t kept up to their standards, they simply won't use it. Cleaning the litter box twice per day is highly recommended. Many cats also bypass a litter box that is dirty. When you are able, scrubbing the box out and letting it air dry once a week will do wonders. You should also know that the litter you select may turn off your cat – unscented, clumping selections are best.

Litter Box Pickiness

Some cats prefer urinating and defecating separate from one another, which may call for multiple litter boxes. This is also a wise move when you own more than one cat. Some felines absolutely avoid a litter box that another cat has used. Felines are generally picky when it comes to their litter box activity.

Cat Urine

A cat that urinates on the carpet, curtains, or pieces of furniture can become a real nuisance. Cleaning the affected areas with an enzymatic cleaner is a must. This will assist in removing the smells and stains left behind. Products to repel, as well as clean cat urine can be found at the local pet store, as well as over the Internet (sometimes for a discount).

Spaying and Neutering

Not only does spaying and neutering help lessen the cat overpopulation problem, but also makes a healthier, happier, safer feline. About 90% of all cats will cease spraying on the furniture or curtains when they have been spayed or neutered. Also, male cats that show a tendency to become aggressive respond well to this procedure.

Reduce Clawing

Some cats are natural clawers, which makes it important to keep their nails trimmed with the use of a claw clipper. The proper way to trim their nails is to gently press on the footpad to extend the claw. The tip of the nail should be snipped without cutting into the pink portion of the nail. When the pink part becomes compromised, the nail will bleed, often spooking your cat into running away. To satisfy the clawing in your cat, you may give them a designated place to do so, such as a scratching post or tree trunk. Rubbing catnip on the place you have selected is a good way to encourage them to accept your suggestion.

Cats Don’t Like Foul Smells

A nasty smelling product can be used to deter cats from scratching, spraying, clawing, and marking their territory.

Article Source: http://www.petcareiq.com

Have a cat behavior problem that needs solving? If so, you'll want to visit secretsofcats.com today to find out how to train your cat and eliminate bad cat behavior quickly.

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