Q: Can you modify cat behavior with training?

A: Yes, cat training is not as difficult as most individuals predict it is. Cats may not be as amenable to training as canines are but they are trainable. Treats offered as positive reinforcement is most likely the main means to train your cat.

Q: Why and how do pet cats purr?

A: Adult kitties purr because they are happy and contented and to play on the emotions of humans — Who can ignore a purring cat? Kittens purr in response to their mother cat’s purr to assist in bonding them. It is widely thought that the purring is a vibration of the voicebox as air is pushed though it. It is also believed that purring is a voluntary action.

Q: What makes a number of individuals are allergic to cats?

A: Cat allergies are caused by the proteins in cat dander originating from the cat’s saliva. The dander dries and becomes airborne. People with cat allergies demonstrate an allergic reaction because their immune system is attempting to combat the foreign protein and creates histamines.

Q: How do you curtail naughty cat behavior like nipping?

A: The best way to break undesirable cat behavior is the same way the mother cat controls an errant kitten. This is by scuffing the cat. You firmly but gently grasp the cat by the scruff of the neck and hold it down until it calms down. You should do this at the time of the bad behavior.

Q: How do you litter train a cat?

A: You really shouldn’t have to do any training for a cat to use a litter pan, but if your adult cat has started to avoid the litter box you need to determine the cause. The cat may have a urinary tract infection in which case you need to go to the vet. If it is just too dirty you need to keep it cleaner. If you have started using litter you may have to change back or sprinkle a little catnip in the litter to attract the cat to the new litter.

Q: How do you keep cats off counter tops?

A: This is the most asked about cat behavior issues and can be a tough one. Cats like elevated platforms and they can find food or food aromas on counters and tables. It is best to keep the counters clean and to use something like foil or double sided tape to keep cats off the counters.