Problem Behaviors in Cats

As stated above, use Bitter Apple (or similar product), tabasco sauce, cayenne pepper on cords or other items you do not wish the cat to chew on. Plants Cats and plants are not a good idea as many household plants are toxic to cats. In addition, they might find the dirt in the pot interesting enough to use as a litter box. If you want to keep your plants, spraying Bitter Apple or a similar product specifically made for use on plants can discourage your cat from chewing on the plants. I have found that by putting rocks/gravel in the pot can discourage the cat from digging in the pot or use it as its litter box. But I must admit, that I recently got rid of all my houseplants which, for me, was better than playing "plant cop". :-)

The easiest way to eliminate this problem is to have a garbage can with a secure lid on it or by storing it under the kitchen sink or in a closet.

The arrival of a new baby can sometimes make your cat jealous. Just as you would reassure your child when you bring home a new baby that you still love her/him, you must reassure your cat that you still love it. Pay extra attention to the cat and it will get over any initial jealousy towards the new baby.

If your cat is already properly litter boxed trained and suddenly starts spraying, you want to rule out any medical cause by a trip to your veterinarian. Additionally, un-neutered male cats will spray to mark their territory.

There is a difference between spraying (on the walls) and urinating (on the floor or other flat surface). Typically, urination is a medical problem and spraying is a behavioral problem. Females as well as males can "spray". Oftentimes when one has multiple cats (i.e., more than one) a cat will spray to mark its territory. This can be easily solved by giving that cat its own bathroom area that others are not allowed in. Always allow one litter box for each cat. While they may all seem to use the same litter box, you should still provide each of them with their own to avoid potential problems. Additionally, some cats are more finicky than others regarding how clean they want their litter box. Keep the litter box scooped and change the litter frequently to avoid smells that could be deterring your cat from using its box. Once you solve the spraying or urinating problem it is important to thoroughly clean the areas that it has inappropriately used. If you do not do this, the cat will return to that area and remark it. Do not use any ammonia products. If you cannot solve a behavioral problem after the above recommendations, read the following part on litter box training.

Some cats have trouble learning to use a litter box or sometimes they just decide not to use one anymore. Outlined below are some possibilities for a cat's failure to use a litter box.

A few of the more common medical causes:

Treatment:

Always rule out medical problems FIRST by taking the cat to the veterinarian and getting a complete physical. Examination should include urinalysis (to rule out infection), polydipsia/polyuria workup, and if needed, stool/GI workup. In a multi-cat household it is important to check out all the cats as more than one cat could be sick. Treat and correct all medical problems first as a behavioral problem can only be accurately diagnosed in a healthy cat.

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Pelaqita Persians is NOT a veterinarian or health care specialist, the opinions expressed on this web site are just that - our opinion based on our experience - If your pet has a medical issue, you should always consult a licensed veterinarian for medical assistance.