Feisty Feline – How to Tame the Beast

Cats are instinctual hunters. If you have an indoor cat, its only prey may be limited to an occasional bug or your foot. Trying to tame your kitty is often just a matter of redirecting its exuberance. In a recent issue of Cat Fancy magazine, they recommend several steps to a more peaceful coexistence.

Suspended bobbles, such as a catnip filled pillow, dangling from an elastic cord in a doorway can provide self-perpetuating exercise. Catnip can be purchased in bulk. Try filling an old sock with a small quantity of this aromatic herb.

Be sure your cat realizes that you are the ‘top cat’ in the family. Rather than letting your cat awaken you at three in the morning to play, you initiate the playtime.

Though cats understand the word “NO”, they often choose to ignore it. Never use physical discipline to reprimand your naughty cat. Try a squirt of water from a spray bottle. It is amazing how quickly your cat will catch on to what is unacceptable behavior.

Never use physical discipline to reprimand your naughty cat.

Children and pets get tired of playing with the same toys day after day. Keep a plethora of playthings in its toy basket. Sometimes the least expensive toys are the best. A piece of crumbled paper, the plastic ring from a gallon of milk or a large paper bag are inexpensive and get a ‘paws’ up approval from your cat.

“Time out” works for impish pussycats. If your cat won’t listen to reason, just walk away and ignore your cat for a while. It will get the idea.

Playtime is a marvelous way to bond with your cat. Sharp claws can make it an uncomfortable experience, so learn how to safely trim nails. If your once playful kitten is now a more sedentary lump on the couch, it may be that it is just growing up or it may be a sign of illness, especially if it has come on suddenly. If in doubt as to why your tiger is tired, see your veterinarian because it is “Your Pet…Health Matters.”