Cat Behavior: Inappropriate Elimination
According to the ASPCA, one in every 10 cats will exhibit inappropriate elimination in his or her lifetime. This lapse in litter box use will most often be due to a common problem or circumstance and can therefore be corrected.
Twenty of the most common reasons for inappropriate elimination, as suggested by the ASPCA, include:
- A medical problem involving the urinary tract.
- A bout of geriatric constipation.
- The litter box is not kept as clean as the cat wants it to be.
- The cat does not like the brand or type of litter.
- The location of the litter box is changed.
- The cat does not like the scent of the perfumed litter.
- The old box is removed and replaced with a new one.
- Too harsh a cleaning product is used to clean out the litter box.
- The location of the litter box is too busy or not private enough for the cat.
- The home is too large for just one litter box.
- The cat gets locked out of reach of the litter box.
- The cat is kept from using the litter box by another animal in the house.
- There are too many cats and not enough litter boxes.
- There are too many cats and not enough territory.
- Stray cats can be seen or smelled near the cat’s territory.
- An unneutered male cat is marking his territory.
- An unspayed female is in heat and advertising for suitors.
- The cat has developed an aversion to the texture of the litter.
- The cat was not properly trained to use the litter box.
- The cat is stressed by a change in routine or environment, including a new baby, new furniture, work schedule changes, vacations, overnight guests or a move.
Image by martie1swart
Cattitudes: The Secrets Behind Strange Cat Behavior
Cats can be strange animals, exhibiting behavior that is often elusive and bizarre. Cats appear to be quite intelligent and so we tend to blame their actions on vindictive and premeditated thoughts. However, as with all animals, there is a different explanation for these behaviors. But what are the reasons cats do what they do?
Check out some of these CATTITUDES:
Excessive Meowing
Meowing is a form of communication. When your cat meows at you he or she is trying to get your attention. There may be a problem, a want or a need that the cat is trying to get across or they may just be bored and wanting some human interaction. Constant meowing, unless related to a medical problem, should be ignored otherwise you may encourage your cat to continue, creating a behavioral problem.
