Whichever treat you use, have it on hand and ready to reward the moment your cat obeys your command. Never strike a cat if he doesn’t do what you want him to do. He will end up resenting you for it and refuse to listen to you. [2] X Research source Jessica Char. Cat & Dog Behaviorist. [3] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source [4] X Expert Source Rita ReimersCat Behaviorist Expert Interview. 22 June 2021.
If you are just acquiring a cat, give him lots of attention. Spend time cuddling with him if he responds to that. If not, try to talk to him and pet him as much as you can, and give him treats once in a while. This may take a few days to a few weeks, depending on how long he takes to warm up to you and his new environment.
On the other hand, having a kitten can be a benefit. If you’re the only owner the kitty has ever had, then you can exert more influence over his actions. [5] X Research source Canine and Feline Behavior for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses. Edited by Julie Shaw and Debbie Martin. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 2015
However, older cats can be more mellow, understanding, and may not be as eager to misbehave. [6] X Research source Canine and Feline Behavior for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses. Edited by Julie Shaw and Debbie Martin. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 2015
Remember that adopted or abused cats may be scared and suspicious of new environments and you, depending on his past experiences with other owners. [7] X Research source Canine and Feline Behavior for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses. Edited by Julie Shaw and Debbie Martin. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 2015
Easily scared or frightened cats will take a more delicate touch when disciplining. You will need to first work on gaining his trust before attempting discipline. An aggressive cat will need to be evaluated by an animal behaviorist so you don’t get hurt when attempting to discipline the cat.
Provide a scratching post for your cat. Make sure to have one or multiple scratching posts around the house so your cat can scratch those. This will prevent him from scratching your furniture, the walls, or other objects he shouldn’t. Have toys for your cat to chew and bite. Chew toys, little balls, and stuffed mice can help your cat use his inner instincts without biting or harming you in the process. This can also deter him from eating other objects that you don’t want him to chew on. Create a kitty space or playground in your house that he can use all day long. Cats love to jump, climb, and explore, so get a cat jungle gym or establish a corner of your house that is cat friendly so he can run around without ruining your property.
You can also reward your cat by giving him attention. Speaking to your cat in a soothing voice, petting him, or letting him cuddle with you can help let him know that you appreciate what he’s doing.
An option for the lazier owner is the laser pointer. Some cats go absolutely crazy for the laser pointer and you can move it all over one room from the comforts of your own couch. Some people protest that the laser pointer is cruel because the cat never gets to catch the red dot, while others would argue that it’s more about the chase.
If your cat jumps on the counter, for example, redirect his attention to a toy on the ground. Once he jumps down and starts playing, give him extra attention and love to show that he did the right thing.
You can also remove him from the room after grabbing scruff of his neck. If your cat is being feisty with you and biting or scratching, you can grab him by the scruff of the neck and say “no. ” If he keeps being bad, pick him up and take him to a different room, still saying no. Never pick a cat up by the scruff. It may hurt your cat and he may be able to hurt you by scratching you. Be aware that cat bites can quickly turn into a dangerous infection. [12] X Research source Putting your cat in a separate room gives him the chance to cool off. [13] X Expert Source Rita ReimersCat Behaviorist Expert Interview. 22 June 2021. An herbal plugin can also help your cat calm down. [14] X Expert Source Rita ReimersCat Behaviorist Expert Interview. 22 June 2021.
Avoid setting traps that may scare or harm your cat. Things like scat mats can really scare your cat. You want them to be disciplined, not afraid. [16] X Research source Jessica Char. Cat & Dog Behaviorist.
