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 Behavior
Cats communicate constantly, just not loudly
An ear position, a flick of the tail, where a cat chooses to nap on the sill or under the bed: cats say a lot without making a sound. Most behavior problems start because someone missed signals the cat had been giving for weeks.
Litter box problems are almost always solvable
A cat that suddenly stops using the litter box is one of the most common complaints owners bring to the vet clinic, and it's rarely spite. Medical issues, box cleanliness, and location are the usual suspects, roughly in that order of urgency to check.
Why did my cat stop using the litter box?
Rule out a medical cause first, particularly a urinary tract issue, then check the box itself: cleanliness, where it's placed in the unit, 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.