Five Things to Avoid for Your Cat's Sake

This article was written by Pet Community Center co-founder and former Board Chair, Jourdan Parenteau. You can learn more about the author at the end of the post.

Cats are a lot like humans in many ways. We both have likes and dislikes and react in a variety of positive or negative ways to certain behaviors. As people, we often mistake cats for being independent creatures who need very little from us, and our assumptions about their needs can sometimes lead to miscommunication with our furry loved ones. While it’s always important for us to think about how we can make our cats happy, we also need to consider the behaviors that might provoke a negative response.

Sudden Change

Cats prefer daily routine and consistency. Even a small change to the cat’s environment or just an everyday way of being can be very stressful to a cat. Sometimes we don’t even realize that certain changes could affect our cats so negatively. These changes could include new smells, new sounds, a change in what time they’re fed, a new person or pet in the home, a different kind of litter or litter box, or even a new furniture arrangement. Try to introduce changes slowly and gradually over time for the cat to feel more comfortable exploring what this change looks like. Never force a cat to notice the changes, especially when it comes to introducing a new pet, but instead, let them decide on their own when they’re ready to accept the change.

Forced Interaction

Like us, cats are social animals that also need personal space and boundaries. Cats need the choice of whether they want to interact or not, so watching for the signs that your cat is either enjoying the interaction or not is really important. Sometimes cats want to be pet or shown affection for a short period of time but then can be overstimulated if the interaction continues for too long. Let the cats decide if they want to be petted, especially when there are visitors in the home or there’s a change in their normal routine. Your cat might also not enjoy being held or hugged so pay attention to signs of distress or unease if she tries to get down or seems scared or annoyed. Show signs of affection slowly and gently, and let your cat decide if and when she wants more.

Dirty Litter Box

Nobody wants to use a dirty restroom, and it’s no different for your cat. Keeping a clean and tidy litter box is more important than you might think. Cats prefer to keep themselves very clean and will sometimes develop behavioral or even health issues if they’re forced to use a dirty litter box. People often complain about having to keep up with the litter box, but it can actually be much easier to scoop the box several times a day than waiting until it all piles up and gets out of control. Multiple litter boxes for multiple cats can also help with cleanliness. Litter boxes should be scooped at least two to three times a day and washed out and cleaned once a week. Cats can be deterred by scented litter to mask the smell or even robotic or hard-to-access litter boxes. Keep it simple and keep it clean.

Loud Noises and Strong Scents

Cats have a superior sense of hearing that allows them to hear far beyond the range of humans. Because their hearing is so sensitive, sounds that might be ok to us could actually be too loud for your cats and cause discomfort or even fear. Very similarly, cats' sense of smell is also very sensitive, beyond ours as well, and strong scents such as perfume, candles, scented litter, air fresheners, etc. can really bother and overwhelm your cat. There’s no need for scented litter when you keep the litter box clean! Be mindful of the sounds and smells in your home and consider whether they might be too much for your cat.

Punishment

Punishment doesn’t teach your cat to behave in a positive manner, instead, it creates fear and anxiety that can be very harmful for your relationship. Cats behave in a way that feels necessary for them, even if it’s not a behavior that you like. Humane training starts with discovering the underlying cause of the behavior so that you can address the needs of your cat and offer alternatives that are acceptable to you both. Reward your cat for positive behavior with treats, toys, and praise. Your cat understands positive reinforcement, not punishment.

Always treat your cats with respect. Know their boundaries, needs, likes and dislikes. It’s crucial to avoid these five things in helping keep your cat’s health and behavior a top priority in your family.

About the Author: Jourdan Parenteau

(Photo Credit: Mandy Whitley Photography)

Jourdan Parenteau is a co-founder and former Board Chair of Pet Community Center and currently serves on their Marketing Committee. Jourdan has volunteered with many animal welfare organizations trapping cats for TNR, fostering and adoption, providing advice as a cat behavior counselor, volunteering with several rescues and shelters, teaching kitten yoga, sea turtle nesting conservation, and animal welfare marketing, planning and fundraising.