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 talk constantly, just not out loud
An ear position, a flick of the tail, where a cat chooses to doze: cats say plenty without making a sound. Most behaviour problems start because someone missed signals the cat had been giving off for weeks.
Litter tray problems are almost always sortable
A cat that suddenly stops using the litter tray is one of the most common issues owners raise with the vet, and it's rarely spite. Medical issues, tray cleanliness, and location are the usual suspects, roughly in that order to check first.
Why has my cat stopped using the litter tray?
Rule out a medical cause first, particularly a urinary tract problem, then check the tray itself: cleanliness, where it sits, 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 takes place. Rushing the introduction is the most common cause of lasting conflict between cats.