Cats, with their independent spirit and often “feisty” characters, can sometimes exhibit behaviors that owners find undesirable. While they may not always obey like dogs, cats are intelligent creatures capable of learning commands and responding to human cues. Understanding the root causes of these behaviors and employing consistent training methods can foster a harmonious relationship between you and your feline companion. Cats are intelligent creatures, capable of learning, and can respond to our body language and actions.
Why Is My Cat Misbehaving?
Many behaviors that we perceive as “misbehavior” are, in fact, natural for cats. These can include scratching, aggression, inappropriate toileting, or excessive vocalization. Identifying the underlying reason for these actions is often the first step toward modifying them.
Aggression Toward People
Behaviors like biting, hissing, scratching, and pouncing can be unsettling. Aggression towards humans typically stems from fear, anxiety, frustration, inappropriate play, or underlying illness or pain. A veterinary check-up is crucial to rule out any medical causes. Inappropriate play, especially in kittens, can escalate into unwanted biting in adulthood. Fortunately, cats that learn to play aggressively can be taught that such behavior is unacceptable.
Aggression Toward Other Cats
For multi-cat households, inter-cat aggression can be a significant source of stress. Cats are territorial, and conflicts can arise if resources like food, water, litter boxes, and resting spots are not plentiful and accessible to all. Ensuring each cat has its own “space” and resources can help mitigate these issues.
Inappropriate Toileting
If a cat repeatedly urinates or defecates outside the litter box, it may signal emotional or physical problems. Initially, assess the cleanliness and location of the litter box. If those are satisfactory, consider potential health issues. It’s important to distinguish between urination and spraying. Urination typically occurs on horizontal surfaces with a significant volume, while spraying is usually directed at vertical surfaces with a small amount and is a form of communication. Conditions like urinary tract disease, stress, territorial disputes, or anxiety can contribute to these behaviors. A veterinarian can help rule out health concerns, and observing your cat’s toileting habits and any household changes can provide further clues.
Furniture Scratching
Scratching is a fundamental behavior for cats, serving to maintain claw health and release pheromones. While it’s natural, it doesn’t have to be destructive. Providing appropriate scratching alternatives, such as cat trees or scratching posts, can redirect this instinct away from furniture.
Vocalization
While some vocalization is normal, excessive meowing for attention, food, or simply the sound of their voice can become tiresome. Cats can learn boundaries, and teaching them a “no” command can help manage incessant noise.
Climbing
Cats are naturally curious and enjoy exploring vertical spaces. While this exploration is normal, it can sometimes lead to dangerous situations. A cat that responds to a “no” command can be invaluable in preventing them from getting into trouble.
Can Cats Be Trained?
Contrary to popular belief, cats are trainable. The key lies in understanding their motivations. While they may be perceived as aloof and independent, cats possess the intelligence to learn basic commands and tricks.
The cornerstones of successful cat training are:
- Patience: Training takes time, and consistent effort is necessary.
- Repetition: Cats, similar to two-year-old children in cognitive ability, require frequent repetition to grasp concepts.
- Commitment: Training demands consistency. Inconsistent responses will hinder learning.
- Understanding Normal Behaviors: Knowing why your cat behaves in certain ways makes it easier to shape new habits.
How To Teach Your Cat ‘No’
Cats don’t inherently understand the word “no,” but they are adept at reading body language, tone of voice, and intention. Consistent use of “no” in a specific tone and posture will eventually lead them to associate it with ceasing an action.
To teach your cat “no”:
- When your cat exhibits an undesirable behavior, say “no” in a loud, firm voice. Maintain eye contact and a consistent posture.
- Initially, physically remove your cat from the behavior to create an association between “no” and stopping.
- Redirect your cat to a more acceptable activity. For example, if they were scratching furniture, guide them to a scratching post. If they were playing roughly, offer them a toy.
- Repeat this process consistently every time the unwanted behavior occurs.
How To Get Your Cat To Understand ‘No’
While cats don’t grasp language literally, they are highly sensitive to vocal tone, body language, and posture. A firm voice and strong posture are essential. If your cat seems unresponsive, adding a hissing sound after “no” can emphasize your command. Avoid shouting, screaming, or making sudden physical movements, as these can induce anxiety and frustration.
Conclusion
Training cats requires patience and consistency, but they can learn basic commands like “no.” When your cat engages in unwanted behavior, use a loud, firm “no,” physically redirect them from the activity, and engage them in a preferred behavior. Consistent application of this method will help them learn to stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my cat to stop doing something?
If your cat is performing a behavior that you want them to stop, say “no” loudly and firmly with a tall, strong posture. Remove them from the activity and move them onto something more preferable. For example, stop them from scratching the furniture and put them on a scratching post.
Why do cats never listen?
It can certainly seem that way! Cats are more attuned to body language, posture, and expression than spoken words. However, they are capable of learning basic commands through consistent training.
Do cats understand when you say no?
Cats do not understand language, so they won’t respond solely to the word “no.” However, through consistent repetition, a firm tone of voice, strong body language, and physical redirection, they can learn to associate the word “no” with stopping their current action.
