Cat Fact Files

Training discs are used to signal ‘non-reward’ and ‘end behavior’. They can be used successfully to replace ineffective punishment strategies such as shouting at your cat.
Training discs are tambourine-like brass discs threaded on a short cord. Their sound first becomes associated with non-reward by setting up a special association session. Wait for your cat to […]

[Read more →]

There are a number of steps to take when introducing your cats to the dog.

Ideally, the dog should first be contained in a covered crate or indoor kennel in the room where the ‘controlled introduction’ will be made. The cats should not be in the room when the dog is first placed in the crate.
Place […]

[Read more →]

There is nothing like ‘cupboard love’ to modify a cat’s problem behavior towards a new partner. Nevertheless, it is not advisable for a new partner to attempt any physical interaction, such as stroking or picking up the cat. This could be seen as both threatening and an invasion of the cat’s body space. In addition, […]

[Read more →]

There is plenty of medical evidence to suggest that this is the case. When humans stroke their warm-blooded companion animals, there is a reduction in stress levels, heart rate and blood pressure levels. Cats can easily become the living equivalent of ‘comfort blankets’ to people because they are soft, warm and furry, and because the […]

[Read more →]

It is advisable not to react adversely when a cat has sprayed because that will just make matters worse. One of the best methods for dealing with a spraying cat is to redirect the cat’s need to mark the home territory in a different way or to a more appropriate place.
Tall scratching posts are extremely […]

[Read more →]

These are aerosol canisters that have a motion sensor included in the top. When a cat climbs onto a table or work surface, or approaches an area where marking behavior is being displayed, the sensor picks up the movement and makes an audible signal. If the cat ignores this warning sound signal then the aerosol […]

[Read more →]

Most cats appear to ‘enjoy’ being stroked by their owners. This apparent willingness on the part of cats to succumb to human needs suggests that there is a benefit to them in this behavior. However, it is probably more accurate to analyze the interaction as the cat perceiving that the human is performing marking behavior […]

[Read more →]

Unfortunately, neutering a cat will not have any effect on the causes of indoor spraying and problem toilet behaviour. Almost all cats under treatment with behaviourists are house pets and they are usually neutered at around 6 months. This is done at this age to prevent the developing toms and queens from performing spraying or […]

[Read more →]

Cats love to groom themselves. A groomed fur coat and clean whiskers and paws can enhance a hunter’s ability to stalk in the shadows and undergrowth and surprise unsuspecting prey. However, grooming can become obsessive and compulsive in some cats that are suffering the effects of stress. Causes of stress include competition between home cats, […]

[Read more →]

It is possible to reduce competition and therefore aggression between cats by examining the aspects where the dispute arise. Research indicates that the main causes of continuing disputes between house cats is over access to owners and to areas in the inner home territory. When one cat is stroked or fussed by the owner, the […]

[Read more →]