Cats have been companions to humans for thousands of years, and their enigmatic behavior has fascinated and puzzled us in equal measure. To truly appreciate our feline friends, it's important to understand what constitutes normal behavior for them. This knowledge not only enhances our bond with them but also aids in recognizing any deviations that might indicate health or psychological issues.
What is the normal way for cats to act?
Cats are very unique animals that, despite what people have done, are still very close to their wild ancestors. They act in a lot of different ways and speak a language that only they understand. So even though we try to train them and bring them into our homes, they still like to "do their own thing"! People who own cats may find this annoying, but the truth is that you have to learn how to live with a cat, not the other way around. By understanding why cats act the way they do, you can come up with ways to get them to behave the way you want.
Sociability
Cats are often misunderstood as solitary creatures, but they are actually social animals. While not as pack-oriented as dogs, cats do form strong bonds with their human families and even other pets in the household. They can show affection through gentle head butts, kneading with their paws, and soft purring.
Can you teach a cat something?
Pet dogs are likely easier to train than pet cats since dogs want to please their owners. On the other hand, cats are very driven by their own happiness. To train your cat, you need to make sure that whatever you want it to do is very fun for it. When your cat does something you don't want it to, it should feel bad. If you hit your cat, it will only learn to act badly when you're not looking. Some cats act up to get your attention, and the attention is a prize that makes your cat want to keep acting up.
How do I teach my cat to use the litter box?
Most cats are naturally very clean, so it's not hard to teach them to use the litter box. When you feed or wake up, take your kitten to a clean litter box. Scratch the litter to get your cat's attention when she gets to the box. Your cat will learn that the litter box is a good place to be if you keep it clean all the time. For cats that use the tray, let her know how happy you are.
Can I stop my cat from going on hunts?
People who have cute pets often find it hard to get used to the fact that their pets are mean hunters. Living with a cat that won't stop bringing his food home is especially hard. Even if they are well fed, cats will still chase and catch prey because they have a strong urge to do so. Kittens naturally act like they are hunting when they play, and as they get bigger, they learn how to do it by doing it over and over again.
Because cats like to hunt, you will have to keep them inside all the time to stop them. It's possible that putting a bell on a collar will make your cat catch fewer animals.
What's the deal with my cat scratching furniture?
Cats in the wild use their claws as an important part of their defense. These are things they use to hunt, fight, and climb. Because of this, it is important to keep the claws sharp and in good shape. By removing the old layers of nail, scratching is good for your cat's claws. Cats may scratch furniture to keep their claws sharp, but most of the time, you can teach them not to do that by making it unpleasant for them (for example, by yelling at them when they do it). You will need to show your cat where it is okay to scratch, though, and give it something to do it, like a scratching post. Cats may also scratch furniture to make it theirs and mark their area. What should you do if your cat keeps doing this? You might need to talk to your vet about it.
Grooming
Cats are meticulous groomers. They spend a significant portion of their day cleaning themselves to keep their fur clean, free from debris, and to maintain their body temperature. This behavior is rooted in their wild ancestry when scent and cleanliness were crucial for survival.
Sleeping Patterns
Cats are known for their love of sleep. On average, a cat can sleep for 12-16 hours a day, which is linked to their predatory nature. They are crepuscular creatures, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. This behavior is inherited from their wild ancestors who were most successful in hunting during these times.
Communication
Cats communicate using a combination of vocalizations, body language, and scent marking. Meowing is predominantly a form of communication between cats and humans, as adult cats rarely use it to communicate with each other. Paying attention to their body language, such as the position of their ears, tail, and whiskers, can provide valuable insights into their mood and intentions.
Territorial Behavior
Cats are territorial creatures by nature. They establish and defend their territory, which may include your home, yard, or even a specific spot on your furniture. They use scent marking through urine, scratching, and facial rubbing to establish their territory.
Playfulness
Play is crucial for a cat's mental and physical well-being. Interactive play with toys like feather wands or laser pointers can keep them engaged and mentally stimulated. It also helps to build trust and strengthen the bond between you and your cat.
Understanding and appreciating normal cat behavior is fundamental for providing a loving and enriching environment for our feline companions. It's important to remember that every cat is unique, and there can be variations in behavior from one individual to another. By observing and respecting their natural instincts, we can cultivate a harmonious and fulfilling relationship with our furry friends.
