Strengthen your relationship with your cat and reduce unwanted behavior with these tips from OHS’ Behavior Modification (BMOD) experts.
Don’t underestimate the power of play. Use wand toys to encourage your cat to play with Daily interactive playtime can boost your shy cat’s confidence, keep your older cat in shape, and prevent unwanted behaviors that stem from boredom.
Rotate your cat’s toys weekly by making only four or five toys available at a time. Your cat will be excited to play with “new” toys each week. Keep a variety of types easily accessible. If your cat has a huge favorite, like a soft “baby” that she loves to cuddle with, leave that one out all the time.
Encourage your cat to “forage” for her food. Food dispensing puzzle toys can help keep your cat entertained while you’re at work, and encourage her to slow down while she eats. Start off easy – try putting some of her kibble in a muffin tin or empty egg carton so she has to work to get her dinner.
Bring the outside In: Put a cat tree in front of a window and place a bird feeder outside. Grow kitty grass and catnip inside for your cat to feast on. Catios are also a fun solution to allow “outside” time but in a protected, fenced-in environment.
Multiple cats need multiple resources. Cats find comfort in knowing that resources are abundant and accessible. Make sure each cat in your household has plenty of options to hide, perch, scratch, play and potty. Your cat doesn’t want to wait their turn to use the litter box. Have one box per cat, plus one extra.
Don’t hide the crate: Leave your cat’s carrier out at all times with a comfy bed inside. Either remove the crate door, or securely prop it open. When it’s time for a vet visit, your cat may feel more comfortable if she’s already used to spending time in her crate.
