Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
I cannot emphasize enough how important litter box placement
and maintenance is to making a cat happy (see Chapter 1 for more on
litter boxes). An inappropriate litter box is the number one reason cats
eliminate in inappropriate locations. Many feline behaviorists recom-
mend having one box per cat, plus one extra.
Although cats may play less as they age, play is another component
of good feline mental health. Many cats will play on their own with
toys, but interactive play every day is also very important for your cat's
mental health. Play relieves boredom and provides exercise. It provides
an outlet for stalking, pouncing and biting behaviors. Don't give up on
cats who seem uninterested in playing. Search for fishing pole toys
with feathers or laser lights that will stimulate at least a little interest in
play.
To keep your cat entertained, set up an outdoor bird feeder that
your cat can observe through a window, or install an aquarium. These
items will provide a lot of stimulation to a cat who longs to hunt and
chase, as well as a couch potato.
SIGNS OF STRESS
Trying to understand how a cat perceives the world is difficult. We do
our best to make their lives comfortable, but we do not always proper-
ly meet our cat's individual mental needs. Changes in the home envi-
ronment or with an owner's schedule may seem trivial to us, but they
can have a major impact on our feline friends. Cats can manifest their
stress through various behaviors.
A trip to the veterinary hospital sends some cats into a frenzy of
fearful aggression. Boredom makes some cats engage in destructive
chewing and clawing behavior. They often perform these behaviors
simply to get negative attention from their busy owners. Some cats
overgroom to the point of creating bald patches and sores as a
response to stress.This condition is called psychogenic alopecia. Other
stressed cats spray urine or eliminate inappropriately around the
house.
Pay attention to your cat and look for signs of stress-induced behav-
iors. Early intervention is the key to preventing unwanted behaviors
from continuing, and to making your cat happier.
