Cat Behavior Training Made Simple

Cat behavior training can be a lot of a fun

You really just need to educate yourself a bit so you can effectively communicate to your cat the behavior pattern you're looking for. The most basic element of cat behavior training is similar to all training - reward or punishment, good or bad. When you think about it all we want to do is somehow communicate to our cat what is OK with us and what is not OK behavior. Molding your cats behavior requires you to be persistent. You can't give your cat mixed messages. In other words, if there is something you never want your cat to do, NEVER let it be OK to do it.

Sometimes just hissing at your cat is enough to get her off that counter, but if you let her roam the counter even once in a while, it will become harder and harder for her to understand what NO means.

If your cat is acting up, your main goal needs to be - NO ATTENTION, good or bad. Primarily if it's play aggression you are dealing with... Just walk away until your cat calms down. For behavior patterns you really want to sink in, and cat behavior problems that are repeating themselves you need a more consistent approach. For example, when I let my cats outside, they know to come back when I call their names. At first, when they only got to know the backyard, it was OK, but after they built some confidence they started leaving the yard and wandering the neighborhood.

Even though they knew it was wrong for them to hide when they heard me yelling their name for an hour, they still decided to be brats. The way I handled it was, when the brat finally came back, I took him straight to a dark room and pretty much gave him a time out after a little pep talk. Even with this kind of treatment, it took about a half-dozen times of persistent 15 minute dark room time outs for him to understand that if he doesn't come home after hearing his name being yelled, he's going to be in the dark. This might seem cruel to some people, but we all know on our own flesh that to be brought up right, you need to be served some discipline for your own safety.

So.. to put this in a memorable list:

Persistence plays a major role in all cat behavior training.


Many unwanted cat behavior problems and cat aggression are due to:



Boredom.


Not enough attention.


Not enough exercise or activity.

If you don't have time to play with your cat, leave her/him plenty of toys and things to do while you're gone.When your cat vends aggression during playtime, leave him/her alone until they calm down.

I really hoped this helped a little bit.

Tags : MP3 Player snagajobs

Continuar leyendo

Ocultar articulo

Pet Naming - Tips For Great Names

We've all met the pet that had a silly name before. Maybe it was the Poodle named Fluffy when the name Fluffy did not fit that Poodle, or the Russian Blue cat named Rachmaninoff when, despite its lineage, it seemed more like a Bob. Although perhaps not as critical as naming a child, after all you can change a pet's name without going to court, what you name your friend is important. Here are some tips to choose a great name that works and that they will not grow out of.

Don't pick a name before you met them! This should be obvious! Maybe you love the name Sally for Boa Constrictors and choose that name, but your Boa seems more like a Butch when you finally meet. Or you are a traditionalist and pick the name Spot for your Mutt, but when the pooch arrives the name does not fit.

If you like, make a list of names you think might fit. Don't fall in love with the names however; you should fall in love with the animal instead! Once you meet, one of the names may be perfect, or a new name may suddenly come into your mind and be perfect. Flexibility is key here.

Also feel free to change the name if you'd like or if it obviously needs to be changed. I knew a German Shepard allegedly named Conrad, but everyone but his owner called him Homer. His name was Homer and the owner should just have faced the facts! I am not suggesting you change names willy nilly, but again, be flexible.

Also think long term. Will the name fit long term? We he or she be growing up? A cutsie name may fit when they are 4 pounds but not when they are 240 pounds! Of could we could go from "Willie" to "William" as they mature and grow as we do for many humans. For example, I was universally called Harry when I was a kid, but now most people call me Harold.

You may grow up too. I know a couple of dogs who have vulgar names and a cat with a borderline racist and definitely off color name. Maybe these names were cool when their owners were in their teens or twenties, but they all wish they had chosen different names now. Unfortunately the names have stuck and really can't be changed now many years later!

Related : MP3 Player runningshoesnews

Continuar leyendo

Ocultar articulo

How to Surprise Your Mom - Great Mothers Day Gift

One:

It just so happened that my roommate found a litter of small kittens under her house the week before. My mom had always loved having a cat, however my father absolutely hated the idea. We had had cats before, but didn't have the best of luck with them being outside because of the coyotes. Anyways, I figured if I could convince my dad that this was the perfect gift, then it would be easy for me to go through with it.

Two:

So, after a great deal of thinking whether or not I should ask my dad for permission, and chances are he'd say no, or just surprise him, I decided I needed to ask his permission. So I did. After about a week of not a clear answer I decided that it was going to happen. I had already chosen the perfect kitten and I knew my family was going to love him.

Three:

When my parents came to pick me up from school, I had him hidden in my apartment, as they were loading things up into the car, the kitten woke up and started meowing, of course my mother heard it first and started asking about it. "whose kitten is that?" "it's yours," I said. She was so excited, but nervous because she didn't know what my father would think. However, he approved and now we are all so happy. Surprise your mother with a charity gift or something she will love for a long time.

My Links : MP3 Player tipsgolfnews theofficewedding

Continuar leyendo

Ocultar articulo

Cat Litter Box Problem? Behavioral Issues Explained

While your cat litter box problem may be caused by more than one issue, there are two main categories. If you've read over my article on the physical causes of this issue, then you already know that this problem is either behavioral, or physical.

Since your cat can't tell you what's going on, you have to rule out each possible cause, until you are left with the most logical answer. This is known as a diagnosis of exclusion.

In this case, it is always best to use caution and assume that your cat has a physical problem, unless your vet says otherwise. So, the first step is to have a consultation with your vet.

Once your vet says your cat's problem does not have a physical cause, then you assume that your litter box problems are behavioral. Let's see if we can think of some behavioral reasons for why your cat won't use the litter box.

1. Dirty Box - some cats will use a dirty box without complaining, but others are fussy. In any case, clean your litter box at least once per day. You should change your litter at least every few weeks, unless it gets too dirty more quickly than that. Whenever you change the litter, wash and dry the litter box thoroughly. If you have a hooded box, be sure to wash the lid also.

2. Cat Box Odor - if the litter box doesn't smell quite right, your cat may avoid it. You might think that your litter box smells just fine, but your cat may have a different opinion about the subject.

You need to clean the box to your cat's satisfaction. Scented cleaners, not rinsing well enough, or not cleaning thoroughly are all reasons why your cat won't be pleased. It's recommended that you use a solution of one part bleach to 30 parts water for sanitizing. When you're finished, the box should be clean and dry and not smell like cat waste, soap, or bleach.

3. Litter Smells Bad - certain cat litters don't agree with certain feline noses. Unscented litters of varying brands have an odor all their own, and your cat may not like it. Different types of litter have unique odors as well. You may have to try different brands or types until you get it right.

4. Wrong Litter Type - brand aside, your cat may be turned off by the type of cat litter you use. Switching litter types too fast can be an issue. When you switch litters, add 20 percent new litter to 80 percent old, and then increase the amount of new litter over several days.

5. Litter Box Type - the shape, size, and type of box does matter. For example, some cats may like a hooded box, while others prefer the open kind. Perhaps your cat would like higher walls, or a larger box. If you've recently changed litter boxes, this could be causing a problem.

6. How Many Boxes? - another cause of a cat litter box problem relates mainly to multi-cat households. Remember the one plus one rule when selecting how many boxes you'll need. You should have one box for each cat, and one extra box so that there is never any waiting for a box to free up. Cleaning chores are a little easier if you have more boxes since that keeps each box a little cleaner.

7. Bad Location - this can be an issue since in some cases, you just can't find a good spot for the box. I've seen them in busy and noisy areas like laundry rooms and kitchens. If your cat is not pleased with the location of the box, she may stop using it. Always try to keep the box in an area that is low traffic and low noise.

8. Territorial Battles - territorial arguments are common in multi-cat households, and usually of no consequence. Some cats, however, like to sneak up on others when they're using the box and pounce. If one of your cats is attacked every time he's in the box, he may develop litter box aversion. Follow the one plus one rule for multi-cat households.

9. Stress - stress is a big issue, and a major cause of litter box problems. If your cat is stressed by a new addition to the household, a recent move, or some other routine or behavior change, this may be the cause of the box issue. Try to soften the stress on your cat wherever you can.

Cat litter box problems can usually be solved, once you know the cause. The solution doesn't have to mean getting rid of the cat. Your veterinarian needs to first rule out physical causes so you can tackle the behavior side of things. Think like a cat, and you'll be able to solve your box problems.

Tags : MP3 Player snagajobs

Continuar leyendo

Ocultar articulo

How to Choose the Ideal Cat Litter Trays and Accessories For Your Feline Friend

Without the proper cat litter and trays, a cat can create quite an unpleasant odour in the home. That's why it's so important to choose the right kinds of cat litter trays from the start. Knowing what kind of litter absorbs best, what kind of odour control works best, and what types of trays are available can be an easy choice when you know what to look for. Here are some tips and trick for finding the best cat litter and trays for your pet.

Litters that absorbs moisture and odour from your cat's urine is the very best type of litter to choose. If the litter does a poor job of doing these two things, then the it can become an odour trap. No matter how many times you clean it, the smell can remain. Fresh n Easy Cat Litter Granules prevents that from happening because the granules please even the most finicky cats with its comfortable texture and by stopping odours before they start. Moisture is wicked away into the granules, leaving a fresh scent in its place. Clean cat trays make for a clean-smelling home!

Cat trays come in all shapes and sizes, both with and without covers. Many people prefer to buy an uncovered toilet litter tray for their kittens so that they can easily get in and out of the trays without hurting themselves. However, when kittens grow into adulthood, covered toilet litter trays are often the preferred style. These types of trays offer the safety and privacy of a cover and offer the added benefit of keeping litter odours in check. Some cat trays come with flaps and filters for maximum control of odours.

Cat litter and tray accessories such as odour control and bags can help owners keep their home from smelling unpleasant. Products such as the 10 X Extra Large Litter Tray Bags offer a quick and easy way to dispose of cat waste so it doesn't stay in the litter for too long. Also of great help with odour control are tray liners. The New Igloo Cat Litter Tray Liners Pack 5 product which works with the Igloo cat litter tray) is a great way to keep your cat's tray smelling like new. The liner keeps your litter tray clean. Spare filters for the "Bill" Cat Litter Tray are another type of superior odour control product available.

A Cat Litter Tray Toilet Clean Mat can keep the litter inside the tray and prevent it from getting tracked all around the house. With special raised "nubs", these mats help gently open up your cat's paw pads to release the litter before it gets deposited on the floor. Another great way to keep odours at bay!

Choosing the right combination of cat litter and trays, litter scoops and mats, and accessories can keep your home smelling fresh any time of the day. Buy products like these and your home will never give away the fact that you have a cat!

Related : MP3 Player runningshoesnews

Continuar leyendo

Ocultar articulo

What is the Best Cat Litter?

This is a good question and a lot of people have asked it. So what is the best cat litter? I will try and answer it for you in this article.

Now not every one cat has the same needs. There are numerous brands of cat litter out there on the market. I will cover some life stages of the cat to coincide with which litter may be best for you cat and even some illnesses or ailments that can sometimes affect this decision. It also depends on what you want, such as an eco friendly cat litter, which most people are turning to in this current global environment.

What is the best cat litter for kittens? These guys have a few different needs when it comes to cat litter. As a kitten, their bladders are quite small so need to urinate more frequently. You will definitely want a good cat litter that has a very good absorbency, as they will urinate more than defecate.

Avoid cat litters that clump when something wet has touched it, as you will soon notice that your kitten seems to like the taste of cat litter! This is a habit that he will grow out of, but if you have clumping cat litter, this will clump in his tummy, expand, and cause a very ill kitten.

Adult cats will vary slightly when it comes to asking the question 'what is the best cat litter?' It can also depend on the time you have, what your living arrangements are like and so forth.

Clay cat litters have a tendency to track throughout your house, but have great absorbency. Clumping cat litters are handy if you do not have a lot of time to clean your cat's litter box every day or if your cat has an illness such as kidney problem which gives them a tendency to urinate more often in large amounts. Sawdust is an excellent and cheap alternative if you are on a tight budget, but will not help prevent odors.

Recycled paper or wood pellet cat litters are a great alternative to help look after our earth as these will break down easily, but usually these are more expensive than the others. If your cat, female or male, has not been fixed, there are some great crystal type cat litter out on the market that helps prevent odors. If your cat has urinary problems frequently, there are even some crystal type litters that change color to indicate that there may be something wrong, and you should take your cat to the veterinarian for a check up.

Senior cats usually come with a few medical problems as they age, such as kidney failure, diabetes and some others that will increase their frequency to urinate and sometimes come with a foul smelling odor. Choosing the best cat litter for these guys will be something with great absorbency and odor control to accommodate their needs.

Remember when changing the litter to a different type can upset your cat. Your cat is a creature of habit, and will often not welcome such a sudden new change. When introducing a new product, follow this rule:

First week: 3 quarters of the old mixed with 1 quarter of the new litter.
Second week: 1 half of the old mixed with 1 half of the new.
Third week: 1 quarter of the old mixed with 3 quarters of the new.
Fourth week: 100% of the new litter should now be offered and accepted.

If at any stage your cat has any problems with the new litter, go back a step and introduce the new litter more gradually. Encourage your cat; never scold him as this could lead to more inappropriate toileting behavior, and if all else fails, contact your local veterinarian for advice.

Friends Link : MP3 Player tipsgolfnews online-dating-gamesonline

Continuar leyendo

Ocultar articulo

Creating a Pet Friendly Yard and Keeping Pets Off Your Gardens

Having a beautiful yard and garden can be quite the challenge when you have pets you share it with, especially dogs. By taking a little time to make your yard pet friendly and you garden pet safe, you can make your yard into an area both of you can enjoy and get the most of.

Your yard should be completely fenced and you should ensure there are no holes or breaks in it. Privacy fencing can help cut down on barking, especially if your yard is located where a lot of pedestrian traffic goes by. You need to have shade in your yard, if you don't already have a good shade tree, maybe its time to plant one. Setting up a gazebo is great for some instant shade. All poisonous plants should be removed and your yard should be hole free so nobody hurts themselves stepping into one. Always be sure that fresh cold water is available for your pets and supply you dog with toys so they have something to play with.

Dogs are very hard on grass. For small areas changing your lawn to a stone, brick, cement or a flagstone patio has many advantages. Not only does this solution offer very low maintenance, but also stops any digging and minimizes the damage done by dog urine and feces and their constant running around. For areas that you want grass, be sure to use grass meant to stand up to the wear and tear dogs can do. A better choice than grass is clover. It is far hardier than grass and doesn't show urine stains the way grass does. Dogs tend to travel the same path every time and if they have a fenced yard one of their favourite paths will be along the fence line. Putting in stone walkways over existing dog paths is a wonderful way to add some charm and beauty to a yard and will also help wear down your dogs nails as he runs around and keeps his feet cleaner on rainy days. Digging can be a problem with many dogs and bare earth is often just too tempting to resist. Be sure to fill in all bare spots with pet safe flowers, rocks, grass or clover. Using mulch, bark chips, gravel or anything similar is not a great solution as many dogs will find them fun to dig in. For dogs who love to dig, if you have the room, giving them a designated digging spot can work well.

For gardens, flower or vegetable, raised beds and/or fencing can work great and look very attractive. Dogs will see light coloured fences better than dark. If you don't have the room in your yard for a fenced off garden or are renting your home, growing flowers and plants in containers, hanging baskets, window boxes and the upside down hanging tomato pots work well. When picking out the plants for your garden, when ever possible pick large plants as dogs are more likely to leave them alone, flowering shrubs are an excellent choice as they are beautiful and even the most rambunctious of dogs will have a hard time running them to the ground. Always be sure that no matter, flower or vegetable, that they are pet safe, dogs and sometimes cats will nimble plants and eat vegetables. You should not use any pesticides or chemical of any sort on your garden. These are not good for your pets, yourself or the environment. There are many natural ways to fight weeds and garden pests. Keeping cats out of gardens can be tougher than dogs, as fences won't stop them. Laying pine cones around the area you want protected from them is a good and easy deterrent, also children's sand boxes should have a lid so cats don't use it as a litter box.

If you don't want your yard covered in feces and urine spots, taking the time to teach a new puppy where you would like him to do his bathrooms is well worth the effort. Be sure to pick a spot that accommodates a male dog by having a tree, big rock or even a post.

Don't forget to take your dog for walks and to the dog park if possible, do not use the yard as their only means of exercise and don't leave them unattended for more than 15-20 minutes. Most of all enjoy your yard with your pets and don't be unrealistic in what you can and can't do and have in your yard.

See Also : MP3 Player theofficewedding runningshoesnews matchfinalworldcup2010

Continuar leyendo

Ocultar articulo