Home | Basic Training (page 17)

Basic Training

Aggression Between Cats After a Veterinary Visit

  There’s a type of aggression that occurs between cats in the same household after a veterinary visit that can be easily prevented with a little planning. This is the kind of non-recognition aggression you may see when one cat comes home from the veterinary clinic and is either hissed at or actually attacked. For ...

Read More »

The Catnip Response

the catnip response

Catnip is a perennial herb and a member of the mint family. It is also known as catmint, catwort,  and field balm, as well as other names. The volatile oil that causes the “catnip reaction” is nepetalactone. Catnip was native to Europe but was imported to the United States and other areas and is now ...

Read More »

How Many Litter Boxes Should You Have?

  Listen to the audio version of this article Having more than one cat is wonderful. It’s comforting to know that your cats have each other for companionship when you aren’t at home. It’s heartwarming to watch your cats groom each other, play together and share a special bond. Litter Box Overcrowding The one aspect ...

Read More »

Interactive Play Therapy for Cats

interactive play therapy for cats

Listen to the audio version of this article Interactive play is a very powerful tool you can use to help your cat in a variety of situations. It’s great for trust-building, helping two cats become friends, exercise, stress relief, and the list goes on. Even though your cat may be one who is so revved ...

Read More »

Some Cats Prefer Horizontal Scratching

Cats are Individuals Some cats prefer not to scratch on vertical objects. These are the cats who scratch on welcome mats, carpets, throw rugs, even sofa cushions. You may have a cat who exclusively scratches horizontally or maybe they enjoy the option of being able to engage in both horizontal and vertical scratching. If you ...

Read More »

What to do When the Cat Hates Your New Spouse

  Listen to the audio version of this article Whether it’s a new boyfriend, girlfriend or a new spouse, life in that rose-covered cottage can quickly turn into Nightmare on Elm Street if the cat appears to hate the love of your life. Beginning a new relationship is stressful enough without the cat coming into ...

Read More »

Thinking About Adding a Second Cat to the Family?

  If you’re considering expanding your cat family, the question of whether to add another kitten or an adult cat may have you confused. And what about gender? Should the new cat be a male or female? While there’s no magic solution for a perfect kitty match, I’ve got some tips to help you increase ...

Read More »

Prepare Your Cat For the Arrival of Your New Baby

  Cats are not big fans of change, so imagine how confusing it must be when there’s suddenly a new family member brought home. From the cat’s point of view this whole event takes place without any warning. Many people incorrectly assume any negative behavior a cat displays toward the new baby is based on ...

Read More »

Helping a Fearful Cat

helping a fearful cat

Many things can cause a cat to become fearful, such as: Lack of socialization as a kitten Being the target of aggression by other animals Pain and illness Being the target of abuse Stressful living conditions (too many cats, dirty conditions, tense family environment, etc.) A move to an unfamiliar environment (new home, being relinquished ...

Read More »

Why Do Cats Knead With Their Paws?

  There’s a behavior many cats exhibit that the human family members find endearing and fascinating. If your cat’s nails haven’t been trimmed lately though, the behavior can also be a bit on the painful side. The behavior I’m referring to is called kneading. The behavior looks like this: the cat stands or sits on ...

Read More »