Cat Behavior

Not every cat behaves well. Many cats act as though they own the household. When bad behavior is not put to a stop, some cat owners end up feeling anxious, irritated and resentful toward their pet.…

Remember when you brought that new kitten home and then didn't see her again for days? Kittens have animal instincts that kick in when they become stressed or want to be alone. Her instincts tell her…

It is normal for kittens under the age of one year to chew as part of their natural development. They are discovering their teeth, and learning to bite helps protect them in the wild from predators.…

Ancient Egyptians elevated cats to the status demi-gods, when they discovered that they actively worked to keep their grain safe from rodents. The Egyptian Pharaoh made the murder of a cat punishable…

Felines have a curious nature and they tend to examine each corner of their environment. Often, this leads to broken vases or spilled liquids, which may damage a computer or your furniture. Teaching…

Cats are curious, and natural climbers. For some cats, this is a risky combination. Cats often find ascending a breeze; it is descending that can be the hard part. This is especially true for kittens…

While the exact causes of purring are not yet known, scientists and vets have come to the conclusion that purring is very closely linked with emotion. Cats are able to purr from their second day of…

Dog behavior problems give rise to safety concerns not only for the pet, but for the owner, children, other dogs as well as the entire neighborhood. For instance, constant barking, growling or…

Cats are naturally curious animals, and that curiosity can lead to injury and infection. An infection can be caused by a number of things, including bee stings and insect bites. If you think your…

Tabby cats are those that have a specific set of markings on their coats. Tabby is not a breed, but rather a term that describes the stripes, spots, and swirls of different colors in the hair. There…

Historically, throughout the years, there has been belief that the full moon caused people and animals to act quite bizarrely. The term ''lunatic'' derives from the word ''luna'' the Latin term for…

Kneading is the press and pull movement cats make with their front paws, typically alternating one foot and then the other. During kneading, cats usually lower their eyelids and often purr. Cats may…

Siamese cats come in three body types and multiple colors. Over the years, the body type of the cat has changed because of the preferences of cat show judges. While the body types are different among…

The purr of a cat is a familiar sound to many pet owners and often provokes feelings of peace, comfort and contentment. While domestic cats often purr in the company of their human owners, cats also…

It is normal for a newborn pup to suckle and knead with its paws as it nurses. (See Reference 3, p. 25). Any time you see young mammals feeding, these behaviors occur. Some dogs continue this behavior…

The word "cat" is the catch-all term for carnivorous mammals that are scientifically classified in the family Felidae. Domesticated cats (Felis catus) are grouped in that family under the genus Felis.…

There are roughly 20 different breeds of Siamese cats and most breed differences have to do with coloration. Under the designation of Siamese there are two distinct body types. These are the…

So-called "designer dogs," the offspring of two different purebred dogs, are becoming increasingly popular with pet-owners. Dogs resulting from this type of hybrid breeding typically have a…

Smelling or olfaction plays a central role in the lives of cats. Smells assist a cat to recognize other individuals and are important during sexual activity, feeding and elimination. Cats possess a…

The calico cat has a tri-color pattern of white, orange, and black on its coat. This type of coat coloring does not indicate a specific breed of cat, just a color pattern, available in different…

If you have a pet cat at home you already know that domestic cats will purr when they are happy, or content. Domestic cats purr when a signal in their brain causes muscles to vibrate, acting as a…

Kneading is a specific behavior within the feline community that can be either adorable or annoying. Both adult cats and kittens do it, usually when they are sitting or laying down. Extending not just…

Striped cats are considered tabby or tiger cats. The three tabby patterns include classic, mackerel and ticked, also known as Abyssinian. Classic consists of swirling, bold patterns that very much…

Every letter is made up of a greeting followed by the text used for the subject matter and closes with a signature. Composition of a letter for either business or personal application should clearly…

Dogs are man's best friend. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes over 150 breeds of pure bred dogs, which are classed in seven different groups and one class. Although each dog is an individual,…

Neutering is a surgical procedure that renders a male cat infertile. It is similar to a vasectomy in human males. Getting a cat neutered helps to decrease the population of unwanted cats in your area.…

As strange as it seems, a lion shares the same instincts and basic anatomy as the domesticated cat. Sure Fluffy uses the litter box, while a lion roams across the African plains, but both eat meat,…

If your cat tries to nurse or suckle from inanimate objects such as fabric, hair, cardboard or plastic, it suffers from non-nutritive suckling. This behavior usually develops from exposure to…

Training cats may seem harder than training dogs, but most cats have already been trained to behave in certain ways. Using a sound that is annoying to your cat can be the quickest way to stop negative…

Not as vocal as dogs, cat communicate with one another and people by means of silent body language, according to "The Character of Cats." Although each individual cat communicates in his own way, cats…

Cats have their own general behavior patterns that are different from other animals. If you are used to being around only dogs, for example, you may have difficulty assessing a cat's mood and general…

Cats are nocturnal creatures by nature. They are biologically designed to hunt at night, and after a 16-hour day of sleeping, they are ready to go once the sun goes down. You, however, are probably…

Cats are expressive creatures, from their eyes to the tips of their tails. Learning how to interpret the subtle clues of a cat's body language and behaviors is the key to understanding how they feel.…

When the topic of cat training comes to mind, the first thought is usually litter-box training. However, you can train cats in other desired behaviors as well. Indoor cats can be trained to remain…

While your cat has many endearing qualities, it also can suffer from a variety of behavioral issues. Solve many of these behaviors with simple changes to your cat's environment to reduce its stress by…

Cats may be shy for a variety of reasons. But in many cases the cat wasn't socialized with humans as a kitten or it has been the victim of aggressive human behavior. A shy cat needs to feel safe in…

Cats' health can deteriorate as they age. Cats older than 10 years old are considered senior, and at 15 years old they are geriatric. Senior and geriatric cats sometimes need more medical care and…

When an animal is referred to as endangered, this usually means there is a danger of the species from disappearing from the Earth if situations do not improve. Those that may soon be endangered are…

Both the Humane Society of the U.S. and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommend spaying your cat. Spaying involves the removal of your cat's reproductive organs,…

Training your pet is one of the biggest responsibilities you have as a pet owner, and one of the most important. Teaching your cat and dog where they are allowed to sleep, how to react to strangers,…

Have you ever wondered what your cat is thinking? Unfortunately, cats can't tell you when they're hungry, upset or want your attention. However, cats do use body language and other forms of…

Genetics, breed, environment and upbringing have much more to do with a cat's temperament than the color of its fur. While color and temperament are not directly related, there seem to be some unique…

Inappropriate or naughty feline behavior can be problematic for pet owners. Behaviors such as scratching, spraying, jumping on counters and furniture, urinating, and chewing are destructive and…

A cat's free-spirited personality makes it a desirable companion for many people. It is just that personality that can make a cat difficult to train. When a cat begins to develop behavior problems,…

Most cat owners have experienced the scenario at least once: Their normally sweet-natured felines are purring away on their laps one second, and in the next, they begin to growl, hiss and even bite.…

Cats sometimes develop the habit of using potted plants as their litter tray. This behavior is unpleasant and unhygienic and should be stopped as soon as possible. Cats may develop this habit in…

Inappropriate elimination can make any cat owner's life a true nightmare, especially when it involves feces. Cats instinctively choose soft, grainy materials in out-of-the-way places to do their…

Cat aggression is not something that you should take lightly. If one of the cats in your household is pulling out another cat's fur, then you probably have a cat aggression problem. This type of…

A bad employee can be a real risk to a company, especially if the employee in question has emotional and erratic behavior towards customers. An employee who has these tendencies will not only offend…

Introducing a cat to your household is a process that requires some patience, and as such should be done slowly. You don't want to overwhelm your new pet. Once your cat is used to its new…

Traditionally, if a cat is purring, most people assume it must be happy. After all, cats often purr when they are sitting on your lap, to show their contentment. But studies show that cats use purring…

Having a baby affects many factors in your life, including any animals you may have at home. Your cat, for example, is probably used to being the center of your attention, so it's natural that it may…

Kittens communicate through a series of noises and through body language. Just like a human baby, kittens talk to us the only way they know how. It's then up to us to figure out what they are trying…

The Cat Fancier's Association (CFA) recognizes 41 pedigreed breeds. One of the oldest is the American Shorthair, which, along with the Abyssinian, Burmese, Manx and Persian, was one of the first five…

When a cat becomes a senior, certain behavioral changes may arise. However, it's important to note that not all cats are going to behave the same as they get older. While some aging cats remain…

Sometimes well-tempered pet cats display occasional acts of aggression toward other cats or their owners. These violent outbursts may be signs of an underlying condition in the cat rather than being…

Pet owners who have a cat that acts in an odd manner may wonder what is wrong with their pet. Fortunately, in many cases the cat's behavior is actually quite common. Cats are extremely intelligent and…

The tabby is not a breed of cat. The name "tabby" refers to the striped or spotted pattern on the cat's fur and is the most common type of coloration in cats. Tabby cats can be found domestically and…

Cat owners will be the first to tell you that cat behavior is often strange, but sometimes it can be downright erratic and a bit of a concern. When a cat begins exhibiting erratic behavior, it may be…

Cats have many moods and behaviors. Reading a cat's behavior can mean the difference between enjoying the cat and being injured by one. Cats are instinctively cautious creatures that tend to not trust…

House cats are felines that are raised inside a household and aren't typically allowed outside of the home. The benefit of raising your cat to be a house cat is that it has a higher level of safety…

A cat's sense of smell is far more acute than that of a human. Like dogs, cats rely on their noses to tell friend from foe, find mates and learn more about their world.

"Tom" is the name for a sexually mature male cat that has not been neutered. The behavior of a tom is more readily observed in cats that roam freely, with little to no human interaction. However, as…

Cats can be difficult to train due to their independent natures, and they do not work as hard for human praise like dogs, says ASPCA. It is possible to control a cat's behavior if the cat's needs are…

An elderly or "geriatric" cat is considered to be more than 12 years old. Certain behavioral changes are not normal to the aging process and should be considered a sign that the cat needs to see a…

Himalayan cats are calm and devoted pets, identical to the Persian breed but with the coloring of a Siamese. They are an attractive and docile breed, perfect if you are seeking a lap cat.

Cats are carnivores and are hard-wired from birth to hunt. Even indoor cats have the urge to chase and pounce, which is why they love to play with prey-shaped toys and moving objects, like laser…

Owners of male cats that have been recently neutered or "fixed" will notice a drastic improvement in their behavior, often for the better. Before neutering, male cats only have breeding on their mind,…

A stray cat is one that has been under the care of a pet owner previously but for whatever reason is now on its own. Stray cats are often beloved pets that have somehow become lost and cannot find…

While dogs may be man's best friend, many find that cats are more to their liking. Cats exhibit different behavior than dogs, and many believe that cats have a different "character." Personalities…

Cat owners sometimes perceive calico cats as being independent or as having wild or unpredictable dispositions. However, cats with calico patterning, like all cats, exhibit a wide range of…

Cats have a solitary nature and are generally independent creatures, some more than others. Despite this, domestic cats can also make extremely affectionate pets. A cat's behavior and body language…

Many owners may begin to suspect that their cat could be pregnant when it suddenly gains weight or is exposed to unfixed male cats. A cat pregnancy can easily sneak up on you, since the feline…

Trainers previously believed that teaching your pet exact protocols--such as eating after owner, walking behind owner and staying off furniture--reduced behavior problems. However, as more pets become…

Cats suckling on their own paw or a woolen blanket might seem funny or cute at first, but it may be a sign of an underlying psychological compulsion. Suckling behavior can be compared to a human child…

The Asian leopard cat, Prionailurus bengalensis, can be found in many parts of Asia. They are slightly larger than domestic house cats and share many of the same behaviors.

Mother cats have certain normal behavior patterns depending on their life stage. Being familiar with what's normal can help you determine when and if you have a problem.

Cat pacing in small degrees is perfectly normal. However, when the pacing moves from occasional into chronic behavior, it is possible there are underlying causes that should be examined.

Cats use their tails to communicate with their owners and with other animals as well. Cats may lower their tails and swish them back and forth when angry or raise them high and quiver the end slightly…

Every cat has a unique personality, but certain behaviors are more common in male cats. These include both healthy personality traits and aggressive behaviors. Fortunately, neutering a male cat can…

Understanding the behavior of your cat will make it easier for you to train her. Not all cats are the same so it is important that you observe your feline in order to see what she likes, what she…

Though the term "exotic cat" can refer to the large African cats--like lions and leopards--it also describes a specific breed of domestic cat, which has its own set of distinguishing behaviors.

Neutering your male cat is the only foolproof way to prevent unwanted litters, territorial aggression, and dangerous long-distance wandering. The surgery itself is quick and the incision is small and…

Many people are quite surprised when they see just how aggressive felines can be. Cats will lunge, scratch, bite, growl and hiss when they feel provoked, not to mention roll, defecate and urinate as…

As a cat's appearance changes as it ages, so does its behavior and personality. It is important to know what is normal for an aging cat to determine if the cat should see a veterinarian.

A minority of cats show a tendency to chew on foreign objects. Not every chewing behavior is fully understood. Veterinarians and behaviorists sometimes cannot resolve the issue, although medications…

Siamese cats, originally from Siam (now Thailand), are one of the oldest cat breeds. They typically live long lives (upwards of 15 years) and are considered to be an intelligent but moody breed,…

Humans can contract rabies if bitten by a rabid cat. Pet Education.com reports that one person dies from rabies every 10 minutes worldwide. These numbers aren't quite as staggering in places where the…

Cats live by a different social structure than people, so sometimes it may be hard for us to understand. They use very specific social behavior to convey certain feelings or concepts.

Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine considers house soiling--defecating in places other than the litter box--as the most common cat-owner complaint. Understanding cat litter box and…

Mother cats, or queens, display distinct nurturing behaviors with their new kittens. Born blind and unable to stand up, kittens depend on the queen’s maternal instincts to help them do…

Cats can be great pets, but no one is likely to deny that their behavior can be a little odd. As cat owners we become accustomed to some of these strange acts, but occasionally the cat may behave in…

Cats are complex animals, using their entire bodies to communicate with each other and with their owners. Learning to read your cat's behavior will help you understand her. Many behavioral issues…

Rabies can affect any warm-blooded animal, and it is spread via the bite of an infected animal. While vaccination can prevent an animal from developing rabies, cats are vulnerable if they have been…

Cats have some of the most perplexing behaviors of any type of domesticated animal. Cat owners can both love and hate these feline friends for their relaxed attitude and bossy behavior. However, aside…

Tortie, short for tortoiseshell, cats have coats in various brindled combinations of black, brown, amber, cinnamon, red and chocolate patches. These patches vary from specks to large swaths. Dilute…

Familiarizing with feline friends can be tricky; many of them don't seem very eager to make friends. Sometimes, they seem to be lost in narcissistic thoughts as they prettify themselves by grooming…

The rabies virus grows in muscle tissue and symptoms may not be present for several months. Within one to three months the virus moves into the central nervous system, affecting the brain and spinal…

A cat can live up to 16 years or more. Generally, when a cat is 7, it is considered a senior. And, when a cat reached 12, it is considered to be geriatric. A 12-year-old cat is equal to a 70-year-old…

Any cat owner will tell you that her cat communicates his wishes very clearly. Simba uses a certain sound when he's hungry, another when he wants to go outside, and yet another when he wants a scratch…

Whether indoors or outdoors, there are dozens of ways in which a cat may become injured. Depending on the method of injury, an injured cat will often alter its conduct and exhibit unusual behavioral…

Some animals, like humans, are prone to compulsive behaviors, and cats are no exception. Compulsive behavior is described as "the repetitive, irresistible urge to perform a behavior," according to the…

It is common for dogs to chew and lick. Normal habits include chewing on appropriate items for fun and exercise. Chewing exercises the gums and licking is their way of getting a taste for things.…

Cats, like people, have different personalities and behaviors, but some behavioral traits are common among female cats. Their environments and interactions with others can have an influence on their…

Animal lovers have long debated between cats and dogs as being the preferred companion. Dog enthusiasts tout their four-legged favorite as having a longer list of virtues, such as being better…

Every cat has a different temperament. Just like humans, cats can be laid back or high strung, sweet or stodgy. But there are certain behaviors typical of a domestic cat. No matter if a cat is easily…

Some cats are more aloof than others, but all cats exhibit certain behaviors. If you learn what they mean, you will be better at decoding your cat's communications with you. A cat's body language…

While some cats age well, remaining physically and mentally healthy and active, others become confused, disoriented and generally infirm, according to Petplace.com. Dementia is a cause of many…

A cat that has recently given birth to kittens tends to undergo a temperament change. She may react differently toward her owners, and she might behave in what seems like a strange manner toward her…

Medication is one of many treatment options for aggressive cats. Medication is a last resort, after you have tried other techniques such as behavior therapy and play conditioning. The veterinarian…

Cats make wonderfully entertaining pets. Many people think of cats as mysterious animals. The reality is that a cat gives you straightforward indicators of what he is thinking or needing. You just…

People have been keeping cats as pets for over 5,000 years since Egyptians first domesticated them around 3500 B.C. Even still, cat behavior remains an enigma to the people lucky enough to keep them…

Cats are intelligent animals that are capable of feeling emotions toward their owners. Some cats love their owners while others may feel indifferent or even dislike the people in their home.…

Cats learn socialization from their mothers and littermates during the first 12 weeks of life, according to the "Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians." Cats who were abandoned or taken away…

Every cat has its individual greeting pattern. Some cats greet humans enthusiastically while others are more subtle. Some behaviors, however, are common throughout the feline world. If an owner can…

Rabies is a virus transmitted by the bite of an infected animal. It travels neurologically to the brain. There is no treatment, with euthanasia of an infected animal--without prior vaccinated--as the…

As cats age, they often develop a range of unusual and inconvenient behaviors. Older cats may suddenly fail to use the litter box properly; develop a habit of wandering the house at night, calling…

Cats have a remarkable history and exceptional hunting and acrobatic skills. From the smallest to the largest, they are amazing and distinctive animals. The United States ranks number one in the world…

Cat owners will often say that cats own people, and not the other way around. Cats are complex creatures that are considered one of the most popular kinds of pets in the world because of their beauty…

Deafness in a cat is a condition that may prevent it from hearing in either one or both ears. The actual process of going deaf is often a gradual one, and you may not notice that your cat is deaf…

Domestic cats make wonderful pets in any type of home. They can be a solitary pet or one of many animals in your house. Cats behave quite different from dogs and have different needs. Cats are often…

Any sudden change in cat behavior shows that something has disrupted its routine. The cat may be upset about a change in the household, a different kind of food or new pet, for example. The cat might…

Many people consider cats to be part of their family. Like any true member of the family, sometimes cat behavior becomes annoying or inconvenient. It is perfectly acceptable to feel frustration when…

While dogs have always had a reputation as man's best friend, cats have always suffered from the stigma of being self-centered pets. Sometimes, however, pet owners have recognized dog behaviors in…

Even though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that less than 1 percent of domestic animals are diagnosed with rabies each year, unvaccinated cats that live outside are particularly…

Rolling skin disease is the common name for feline hyperesthesia, a condition that can have both physical and mental consequences for your cat. While the exact causes are unknown, the effects are…

Cats that growl while eating were usually the runt of the litter, or have spent some time having to survive in the wild or on the streets. They are used to having to fight for their food. They could…

Feline hyperesthesia disorder, sometimes referred to as rolling skin syndrome, is not well understood. When a cat has FHS, symptoms will include the pet seeming to hallucinate, having manic,…

Aggressive cats can be difficult to deal with and even dangerous. If other techniques have failed to control the behavior, medication might help aggressive cats become more pleasant (and safer)…

Cats were first domesticated approximately 4000 years ago by the ancient Egyptians, who revered and worshiped them. Felines eventually worked their way around across the world, finding a home in just…

Feline dementia is a condition that affects older cats. Feline dementia is also known as cognitive dysfunction syndrome, and is treatable under the care of an experienced veterinarian.

Contrary to popular belief, cat training is possible. While a cat won't react to training with the same enthusiasm as a dog, you can use proper reinforcement to teach your cat not to scratch…

Catnip is any herb of the Nepeta family, which includes about 250 different varieties. All of these can affect cat behavior.

Cat biting behavior can be a big problem in some households. Some cats bite other cats in the household. Other cats bite their human owners. Sometimes, a cat will display both behaviors.

There are several reasons for an adult cat to bite or chew on household items, according to veterinarian Dr. Michael Richards. Cat owners may find it annoying that their pets are biting everything,…

Though it may not be possible to detect any signs that your cat is pregnant during the first three weeks of gestation, her behavior will soon begin to change in some noticeable ways.

As much as we love our cats and dogs, there are times when their poor behavior can make them difficult to live with. In some cases, the behavior can be corrected with a combination of training and the…

If you are expecting a baby, you know your life is going to change drastically in a few short months--to some extent, it probably already has. But there is no reason for these changes to include…

Cats commonly can be seen chewing and eating grass, which can often be misconstrued as an unusual behavior, as the nutritional value from grass and plants is minimal at best to cats. If the behavior…

For most cats, growling is used as a way to signal to any other creature around them they are aggravated and should not be messed with. Some cats growl more than others, but there are a few who seem…

Feline dementia, also called feline cognitive dysfunction, is a condition similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans. It affects mostly cats over the age of 11, with the chance of developing the…

There's a reason we have the term "cat fight." Cats are territorial animals who don't always like sharing their space with other cats, and they aren't shy about making their unhappiness known. Cats…

Maybe you never meant to own multiple cats; you were happy with your single feline. But then that sweet tabby stray needed a home, and your neighbor moved to Dubai and couldn't take his Siamese.…

Cats are not pack animals. For that reason, dominance behavior in cats is typically limited to resource guarding and territorial behavior. Cats may attack if they feel that their territory has been…

Cats are natural stalkers and hunters. A cat that doesn't get the chance to chase birds and squirrels may decide it wants to "catch" your feet instead. Fortunately, cats are quite easy to discourage.…

The Jacobson's organ is an olfactory sense organ in many species of animals. It allows them to perceive pheromones, or chemical messages, from other animals of the same species.

Cats have long been regarded as mysterious creatures, but they are just like other animals in that they have behavior patterns that are readable by humans, letting you know whether the cat is happy,…

A cat that beats up on another cat in the household can disrupt the peace for everyone. Cat aggression between two cats is often the result of territorial disputes, dominance issues or fear. Often it…

While owning a cat can provide lots of joy and companionship, it can also provide a few headaches if your cat displays undesirable behavior. Typical unwanted actions can include scratching in…

Many people believe cats are ideal pets because of their independence and playfulness. Cats are born with instinctive predatory activities and behavior that can create problems for their human…

Dogs and cats may exhibit jealousy toward any other individual who takes your attention away from them. This jealousy may extend to spouses, boyfriends and girlfriends, babies and even other pets. The…

Many cats need surgery at some point in their lives, including routine spay/neuter surgeries and dental cleanings. Veterinary anesthesia today is very safe, but there are risks. Some cats also…

If you have a cat, you have probably wondered if cats ever grieve. Although there isn't much scientific evidence that they do--all signs point to "yes." The fact that cats form close bonds…

Ever wonder why your cat sleeps all day and wreaks havoc at night? Or why she purrs at you but hisses at your friends? Your cat's behavior is based on her nature as a solitary, semi-nocturnal hunter.

Rabies vaccinations are not required for cats, and the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine says "the number of reported feline rabies cases in the United States far exceeds that of dogs…

Startle or aversion tactics correct a dog that is misbehaving at times when the owner is not present to intervene. These tactics work by stopping behavior with sudden, loud or unpleasant sound or…

Cats are creatures of habit, and once your cat has started pooping outside the litter box it can be difficult to change her ways. There are a few common causes for cats pooping on the floor, most of…

Suckling is a normal action by kittens when feeding on their mothers, but some cats will continue to suckle after being weaned. That often happens when kittens are weaned too early, so the kitten…

Senility in cats is a condition, similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans, which causes a decline in mental function in older cats. Cats suffering from feline senility exhibit behavioral changes and…

Cat lovers may refer to their felines as "the kids" or their "babies," but cats are not children in fur coats. Nor are they small dogs "with attitude." Many behaviorists believe housecats are closer…

When cats pull out their hair, it is often a symptom of the condition psychogenic alopecia. It similar to the obsessive-compulsive disorder known as trichotillomania in humans. In both species, the…

Your veterinarian can determine conclusively if your cat is pregnant. However, you can recognize signs that your cat is pregnant even before you confirm it with a veterinarian. Although the precise…

Cats spend up to a quarter of their waking hours grooming. Some overdo it and compulsively create symmetrically bald or closely "mowed" patches by licking, biting or chewing their fur. This is called…

Cats can be loyal, loving, intelligent and independent companions to humans. Although cats are known as being animals who have certain routine behaviors, as cats get older some of these behaviors…

Your “kneady” kitty has a perfectly good reason for the press and pull routine it performs on your favorite blanket. Rest assured, this baffling behavior does not warrant a call to the…

Cats can be trained, though not in the same way as dogs. Dogs form packs and because you are the leader of that pack, your dog will follow your direction in most instances. Cats, however, have loose…

Cats can be our cuddly best friends who love us unconditionally. They can bring humor and love into our lives, and we can admire their independence and regal demeanor. But when a house cat is afraid,…

Have you ever seen your cat burrow his head in the couch or covers and start kneading his paws into the soft surface? There is a very good reason why this happens. You may have thought it was pretty…

A cat will communicate their cat language to humans and other animals through their own kind of cat language. Just as people do, a cat will communicate with cat behavior through cat body language,…

Jumping is a cat behavior problem that is innate to the species. Control a cat's jumping habits with tips from an animal rescue volunteer in this free video on cat behavior.

Protecting furniture from cat behavior redirects a cat's attention to designated scratching areas. Protect furniture with tips from an animal rescue volunteer in this free video on cat behavior.

Bullying is a cat behavior that can cause tension in the household without adequate toys and distractions. Assess cat bullying with tips from an animal rescue volunteer in this free video on cat…

With cat behavior problems, medication can sometimes be used as a last resort. Learn about cat behavior medications with tips from an animal rescue volunteer in this free video on cat behavior.

Scratching the furniture is a cat behavior problem that is fixed with designated scratching posts. Fix scratching problems with tips from an animal rescue volunteer in this free video on cat behavior.

A cat's behavior is affected by stress that could be caused by outside cats or general unhappiness. Reduce stress in a cat's life with tips from an animal rescue volunteer in this free video on cat…

Reward good behavior in new cats with treats that smell good and little pinches of catnip. Learn to reward good cat behavior with tips from an animal shelter worker in this free video on introducing…

Normal cat behavior includes being extremely curious of their environment, exhibiting a predator-type behavior and interacting with other cats in a playful manor. Understand how cats behave normally…

Unfortunately, cats need to undergo surgery from time to time, like the rest of us. This is extremely difficult for them, as cats like privacy and routine. But if your cat has had a recent surgical…

Cats are creatures of habit, and any change in their behavior can be a signal of something serious. If there is no obvious reason for a pet cat to develop a sudden change in behavior, a visit to the…

Many a cat owner has come upon a completely unexpected litter of newborn kittens in their home or yard because they never suspected their female cat was pregnant. Cat pregnancies are relatively short…

If you own a cat, most likely it's the other way around; s/he owns you. Because cats are mysterious by nature, you can expect your cat to be highly intuitive - especially since all of his or her…

A cat behavior expert is trained in feline behavior. Cat behavior experts work with cat owners to determine the cause of and solution for behavioral problems. The ultimate goal of a cat behavior…

Don't you love those pictures of adorable little kittens frolicking playfully in baskets of unraveled yarn? Keep dreaming--that only happens in calendars. Real cats can be a terror and a half, peeing…

Cats are unique and curious creatures. As any first time cat owner will quickly discover, these feline friends have a very interesting, and often perplexing, set of behaviors. If you are unfamiliar…

Cats are wonderful creatures, but their behavior can be somewhat of a mystery at times. They seem to have mood swings that turn from loveable to aloof. Cats will seek your attention when they want it…

Bringing a second cat into your family can add love and companionship for both you and your old cat, but that doesn't mean your old cat might not get upset. With a little time and a lot of patience,…

Find materials that promote good cat behavior and encourage the use of clickers. Take control of your cat's behavior with useful tips from an accomplished veterinarian in this free video on finding…

Use cat accessories like harnesses, clickers and leashes to teach your cat basic commands. Promote good behavior using the advice of an accomplished veterinarian in this free video on how to use…

To encourage healthy cat behaviors, use tape and aluminum foil to prevent cats from scratching or sharpening their nails. Keep your furniture tidy with some helpful tips from an experienced…

Cats explore everything often to the consternation of their owners. Because of their tendency to do whatever they wish, cats often climb on counter tops and furniture where their owners don't want…

If you don't understand cats, you may think they are a bit strange. Read on for a list of common things you should know about your cat and why he may behave as he does.

Some cats like to suck, lick and chew on items such as wool and other fabrics and items. This behavior is commonly known as wool sucking because this tends to be the material most cats prefer. Experts…

Learn to think like a feline and you won't be puzzled by a meow again. Perhaps the kitty is trying to tell you to fill her food bowl or to get rid of the dog, but whatever your cat communicates,…

Cats display many fascinating behaviors, and it's important as a cat owner to learn the meaning behind their body language and habits. Understanding their actions will make you a better owner as you…

Petting a cat is not only pleasurable and beneficial for the cat, but numerous studies have proven that it's good for the person who's doing the petting too. Both parties reap the benefits of lower…