- Facts

1.     Problem Definition:

There are various behavior problems that many cats display from time to time. The problems could range from scratching, spraying, chewing cords and plants, biting and litter box problems.

2.     Underlying Reasons:

There could be several reasons for each behavior problem. Scratching is a natural habit and unless you provide a scratching post you cannot hope to prevent the animal from scratching furniture. Spraying and litter box problems could be due to overcrowding, poorly maintained litter box or due to diseases like kidney troubles, feline cystitis, etc. Biting can be due to stress, jealousy, physical diseases or improper training.

3.     Why it is a Problem:

So long as the behavior is rarely occurring and does not repeat itself there is no problem. But once the behavior grows consistent and aggressive it will become a big nuisance that has to be checked immediately to prevent disastrous consequences.

4.     Consequences:

Each behavior problem will raise further complications that could be more damaging than the behavior itself. Aggressive problems not only break down the wonderful bonding between you and your pet but could even end up in having to give your pet away to adoption homes. Further you would have to cope with damaged furniture, soiled carpets, disgusting odors and physical wounds and scratches.

5.     The Cure:

The best cure is to discourage the behavior through 'cat proofing' your house or by using distraction methods. Spraying bitter apple or other cat deterrents on plants, ropes, etc will effectively prevent chewing.

 -How To Investigate

1.     Physical Surroundings:

Physical circumstances like overcrowding, improper cleaning of litter box, lack of scratching posts, persisting urine odors, curious objects within easy reach, uncovered garbage cans are all reasons to induce bad behavior in cats.

2.     Environmental Factors:

Bird feeders, large attractive gardens, inviting puddles of water in yards, open fences are all factors that, though not faults in maintenance, are nevertheless inducing factors.

3.     Emotional Causes:

Stress, jealousy is major emotional causes that should be quickly cured.

 - What to do

1.     Practical Changes:

Buy scratching posts, provide separate litter boxes for each cat, clean the litter boxes regularly, move the litter boxes to the place of urination, provide more space per cat, cat proof the house, spray cat deterrents, use surprise reactions like clapping, whistles, sharp sounds, hissing to discourage biting, use aluminum foils on furniture in the beginning, keep the doors closed -- do whatever it takes to practically check the behavior.

2.     Professional Advice:

There numerous online sites by professionals, vets, researchers, etc where you could gather advice and help.

3.     Medical Advice:

Eliminate medical causes by consulting your vet. This is important and neglect will lead to serious health troubles.

4.     Helpful Supplies:

Cat deterrents, odor removers, aluminum foils, stain removers are important supplies to have at hand.

 -Tips

1.     Break Bad Habits:

Discourage bad behavior consistently. It must be done soon as the behavior begins so that the cat could connect both together.

2.     Create Good Habits:

Behavior problems can be solved with proper housetraining and by cultivating good habits to counter bad behavior.

3.     Owner Training:

As an owner you must try to understand your cat and the language it speaks through physical movement, purring and mewing and through behavior manifestations. Read books, seek expert advice and talk to other pet owners.

4.     Owner Investment:

The expense for curing bad behavior is not so much as the investment of time and effort which is more important to sustain the wonderful pet-human bonding.