6 Stanley st
(corner of York and Wortley)
info@londoncatclinic.com
519-439-0373
Feline Behaviour
Cats are very complex and sensitive creatures who generally dislike change, discomfort, boredom, noise, an innappropriate or dirty litter box, etc. The things that upset cats can change their behaviour, often to the dismay of their human families. Clients regularly call us seeking help for problems such as:
- Innappropriate elimination (urinating or defecating outside of the litter box)
- Intercat aggression
- Aggressive behaviour towards people
- Introduction of a new baby to the family
- Scratching furniture, drapes, etc.
It is important to remember, however, that physical reasons for the behaviour may also be a factor and may need to be addressed at the same time, especially with urinary issues. We will examine the cat to see if there is an issue such as an illness or pain that may be causing the problem. Tests may be needed, such as a urine assessment to rule out infection. (For example, if it hurts to urinate, the cat may associate her litter box with pain and avoid using it).
If it is deemed to be more a behavioural issue, or if the problem is more related to aggression, we will set up a behaviour consultation which is a 1 hour appointment. If we have not recently examined the cat, we recommend your cat accompanies you, otherwise your cat does not need to be present. We would ask many wide-ranging questions in order to determine exactly what is going on, and suggestions are made as to how to procede. Consultations are followed up with phone calls from the clinic staff to determine what progress is being made and recheck consultations with Dr. Rosenberg may also be needed.
Punishment and Rewards
In general, direct physical punishment is ineffective with cats as it causes fear of the owner and will not stop the behaviour. As mentioned before, cats become upset by loud noises, for example, so shouting at the cat is not recommended. Keep in mind, too, that the cat's behaviour does not mean it is trying to punish its owner or "send him/her a message". Rewards for training purposes, on the other hand, are very important and useful in encouraging appropriate behaviour.
In Conclusion
Most cats learn to adjust to owners' lifestyles readily, with few behavioural problems. If you feel you have problems that you cannot resolve, please feel free to approach our staff and arrange a behavioural consultation with Dr. Rosenberg. We have a great interest in behavioural counselling and enjoy bettering the relationship between our clients and their cats.
