Cat Behavior Problems: Causes and Solutions for a Happier Home
A breakdown of the five most common cat behavior problems, from scratching to litter box avoidance to aggression, with practical fixes for each.
Cat Behaviour
Cats communicate constantly, just not out loud
An ear position, a flick of the tail, where a cat chooses to nap on the balcony or in a cupboard: cats say a lot without making a sound. Most behaviour problems start because someone missed signals the cat had been sending for weeks.
Litter tray problems are almost always solvable
A cat that suddenly avoids the litter tray is one of the most common complaints owners bring to the veterinary doctor, and it's rarely spite. Medical issues, tray cleanliness, and location are the usual suspects, roughly in that order of urgency to check.
Why has my cat stopped using the litter tray?
Rule out a medical cause first, particularly a urinary tract issue, then check the tray itself: cleanliness, where it's kept in the flat, and whether another pet is guarding it.
How do I introduce a new cat to a resident cat?
Slowly, with scent swapping and separate space before any face to face meeting. Rushing the introduction is the most common cause of lasting conflict between cats.