Just as with humans, cats have preferences and react to each positive and negative experiences. Although they’re very tolerant of the mistakes humans make, certain behaviors relations do could cause stress and damage the bond. I’ve written many articles in regards to the ways to strengthen the bond, and the way to foster a superb relationship with cats, however it’s also essential to concentrate on the things people try this cats hate. Here are 10 common behaviors that could be irritating your personal cat.
1) Abrupt Change. Cats are definitely creatures of habit, and sudden changes of their environment or on a regular basis life may be distressing. This ranges from the introduction of a latest pet, moving to a latest home, change in food or litter brand, or rearranging furniture. Even events that folks view as very minor may be stressful for unsuspecting cats. Try to include changes regularly to present cats time to make a more comfortable adjustment.
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2) Dirty Litter Box. Litter box maintenance isn’t the cat parent’s favorite chore, but cats are meticulous about their litter boxes and a unclean one could cause serious stress and might even turn into health issues. Nobody wants to make use of an unflushed toilet. The litter box must be scooped no less than twice a day and completely washed out continuously. Don’t resort to scented cover-ups to avoid your vital job of keeping the box clean and welcoming for cats.
3) Touching the Tummy. Although there are definitely some cats who tolerate this and should even enjoy it once you pet their exposed and vulnerable belly, but most cats hate it. When cats stretch out and expose their belly, it’s an indication of trust and leisure. Unless for certain that the cat enjoys being touched there, respect kitty’s boundaries.
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4) Loud Noises. Cats have very sensitive hearing and loud noises may be startling and even downright frightening. Things resembling vacuum cleaners and other household appliances, loud music, loud TV, people shouting, and construction noises can add stress. Ensure there are quiet places in your own home where cats can retreat when things get too noisy. Never force cats to remain within the room with you if the noise level is high. Don’t locate resources (feeding station, litter box, scratching post, resting areas) in rooms which might be noisy. Be aware of the quantity of electronics and activities in your own home to avoid causing hearing discomfort. If you’re concerned in regards to the level of noise in your household, download a decibel meter to your smartphone so you possibly can do a fast check.
5) Forced Interaction. Cats are social animals but they, just as with humans, need personal space and the selection of whether to interact or not. Forcing cats to interact can result in them learning to avoid you in the longer term. Allow cats the selection of whether to have interaction and for the way long. This is very critical when there are visitors in the house who should want to meet or pet any cats in the home. Always let cats set the pace.
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6) Unwanted Hugging and Holding. While many cats enjoy being held, others feel more comfortable with their feet on the bottom. For those that do like being held, they often have specific preferences about how they’re positioned in your arms. Respect their individual boundaries because even cats who enjoy closeness don’t appreciate it when it’s forced. Remember, hugging isn’t a natural behavior within the animal world, so some may find it uncomfortable or unwanted.
With cats who don’t enjoy being hugged, there are many ways to display affection in a fashion they like. Train cats to feel more relaxed with being held through gradual and positive methods. This training is beneficial with regards to placing cats in a carrier for travel or relocating them for specific reasons. However, the important thing lies within the approach: never force the problem. Focus on positivity, gentleness, gradual progress, and reward any small steps cats take, nonetheless small they could be.
7) Punishment. In training, there is completely no room for punishment. Behaviors, even those you don’t like, serve a purpose for cats. Unwanted behaviors aren’t displayed out of spite or to deliberately misbehave. Punishment doesn’t teach cats the right behavior, but reasonably, just teaches them to be anxious, defensive, or frightened. Humane, proper training involves identifying the underlying cause for the behavior so you possibly can provide a greater alternative. In other words, determine what is required so you possibly can supply it in a way that is suitable to each of you. Reward cats for wanted behavior with treats, praise, a toy, or whatever that specific cat views as positive.
8) Ignoring Body Language Cues. Cats are masters at communication, they usually speak volumes through body language. Ignoring visual signals indicating whether interaction is needed or not, can lead to emphasize, reluctance to be near you in the longer term, and even aggression. Learn to read feline body language cues and adjust your interactions accordingly. When you respect body language signals, it goes a good distance in strengthening the bond you share.
9) Strong Scents. Cats have a keen sense of smell, and robust scents, resembling air fresheners, cleansing products, heavily scented litter, litter additives, or perfumes, may be overwhelming. Be mindful of the products you utilize in areas where cats shall be. When it involves scented litter additives, there’s no reason to make use of them because they will actually find yourself becoming a deterrent. A clean litter box is the most effective technique to control unpleasant odor.
10) Inconsistent Schedules. Cats take comfort in routine and predictability. An inconsistent schedule often disrupts their sense of security. From feeding times to play sessions, try to keep up consistency in your cat’s comfort and peace of mind. Predictability goes a good distance in reducing stress.
Photo: Abby Chung for Pexels
Understand and respect the preferences of cats, as these items are crucial for helping to avoid behavior or health issues. Every cat is a person with their very own set of likes and dislikes, but this list of 10 things cats hate can enable you create a more comfortable and secure environment.
Need More Information?
If you’d like more information on cat behavior and training, seek advice from the best-selling books by Pam Johnson-Bennett. Pam’s books can be found at bookstores and online. We’ve included links to Amazon here on our website in your convenience.