People certainly aren’t lukewarm when it comes to the perception of cats. Even history hasn’t been lukewarm when it comes to cats. Cherished during a time in ancient Egypt, they have also been associated historically with witchcraft. They were appreciated for controlling the rats during the plague, yet also believed to steal the breath from babies.
Even the way cats are portrayed on TV and in the movies often add to the misinformation. Garfield is lazy, manipulative, and enjoys getting the upper hand over innocent Odie. In some pet food ads, cats are portrayed as finicky, condescending, and demanding. Even the cat in Cinderella is downright evil. And take a look at Halloween decorations. Do you see any mean-looking dog faces carved into Jack-o-Lanterns? Probably not.
Many of the behavior problems I see during consultations are the result of people not understanding enough about what cats need or what the true motives are that drive particular behaviors. If I had a dime for every time I heard an owner say that the cat was misbehaving out of spite or trying to get revenge, I’d be a very rich lady.
Cats are highly intelligent, social, sensitive, graceful,
loving, and very trainable creatures. Although living with cats
isn’t meant for everyone, they certainly deserve better than being
misrepresented. Many people who don’t know cats believe the myths
that they’re independent, aloof, snobby, you name it. Part of the
problem is that we constantly compare cats to dogs and are
disappointed when Fluffy doesn’t respond the way Rover does.
If you’re experiencing a behavior problem with your cat or you’re at the point where you’re considering adopting a kitty for the first time, do yourself and the cat a huge favor and get educated about behavior, training, and health. Read, ask questions of your veterinarian, attend public seminars held by local humane organizations, and if necessary, consult certified behavior professionals. If you have a kitten, take the time to socialize him. Puppy socialization classes have long been popular but did you know there are kitten kindergarten classes available around the country? They are held at veterinary clinics and humane shelters in many cities. Take time to train your cat and help him get comfortable with being around people, traveling in his carrier, etc. All-too-often, people get cats because they don’t have time for a “real” pet like a dog and then end up disappointed because the cat doesn’t bond with them. Your relationship with your cat requires your participation. The more you train him, provide what he needs, and take the time to bond, the more you’ll get in return. Cats have been second-class citizens for far too long.
Don’t believe myths or assume your cat is peeing outside of the litter box as an act of revenge against you. Unwanted behaviors aren’t displayed to be willfully disobedient. An unwanted behavior is performed because it serves a purpose for the cat who feels he has no other option. The best way to solve those problems is to 1) figure out what the underlying cause is and what the need the unwanted behavior fulfills; 2) provide a better option for the cat and change the conditions surrounding the behavior; and 3) reward the cat for doing the right behavior.
Be an educated, kind, insightful cat owner and you can help
spread accurate information about how wonderful cats truly are.
For help with behavior and training, visit Cat
Behavior Associates or check out the book Think Like a Cat.
Think Like a Cat
Pam Johnson-Bennett
Certified Animal Behavior Consultant
