Most pets act up at some point in their lives, but sometimes their bad behavior can happen because we inadvertently encourage misbehavior! The key to fostering good kitty manners is to get a better understanding of your cat so you can train them. Cats, like most animals, respond well to positive attention and treats. Here are some problem behaviors and ideas on solving them.
Assuming it's bad behavior
when it could be a medical problem. There are any number of medical issues that can lead to your kitty not using their litter box, aggression, or fearfulness. If your cat's behavior has changed, it's always a good idea to take them to the vet for a check-up.
Night time meowing
Is made worse if you address it, that's the worse thing you can do. Your cat will continue to wake you up at night forever! The best way to deal with night time wake ups is by ignoring them. Yes, you may get a week or so of sleeplessness, but it beats years of sleep deprivation!
Picky eaters
You put their breakfast in their bowl, they don't eat it and meow at us, and what do we do? Give them something better! Stop picky eating in its tracks by not giving in! After a half hour, pick up the leftover food - they don't get any more until supper. No treats, no nothing! We know it's hard, but in a few days, your kitty will soon be eating the food you offer!
Litter box issues
Often a people problem, meaning we are missing something. If you're sure your cat doesn't have a medical problem, these tips may help. Your cat may not like your fancy litter; it may feel funny or smell different. Go back to basics and see if your cat will use the box again. Maybe he doesn't like the box location, try a few different locations (closer to the action, further away, or perhaps more private) and see if he likes it better. Be sure their box is immaculately clean; no one likes a dirty bathroom. If they are still not using it, try putting your cat in a small space with their box, maybe a closed off bathroom or laundry room. Once they use the box a few times gradually give them a little more space until you're sure they get it.
On the kitchen
If your cat is getting on the kitchen counter or dining room table and you don't want them there, by all means, remove them. However, we can't tell you how many times we've seen pet parents pick their cat off the table and scratch her ears while they move them to the floor! Please move them without any affection. Otherwise, they think this: "when I get on the table, mom pets and kisses me!"
With a little work and a lot of consistency, we can help our pets to be excellent roommates!