Episode 6: Your Cat Behavior Questions Answered!

Hiss & Tell: Cat Behavior and Beyond

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In this episode your host, Kristiina Wilson, a cat behaviorist, answers various cat behavior-related questions submitted by listeners. Some of the topics discussed include why cats scratch around their food bowl, the use of CBD for stress and anxiety in cats, transitioning cats from dry to wet food, bathing cats, correcting mistakes in cat boundaries, introducing cats to each other, dealing with inappropriate defecation, shifting cats from a treat-only diet, and addressing 3 a.m. howling. Additionally, Kristiina explains how cats use their tails to communicate and whether it's okay for cats to watch videos on phones. In this conversation, Kristiina provides tips and advice on various cat behavior topics. She suggests using play and puzzle feeders to keep cats mentally stimulated and prevent them from eating too quickly. She also recommends using cat TV or bird feeders to provide visual stimulation for cats. Kristiina emphasizes the importance of play and interaction with cats to prevent boredom and obesity. She discusses the process of introducing new cats to the household and recommends using Feliway products to create a positive environment. Kristiina provides tips for determining if cats are play fighting or fighting and advises redirecting or startling them to stop negative behavior. She emphasizes the need for regular play and exercise for cats and suggests using toys and interactive play to keep them active. Lastly, Kristiina shares tips for carrier training cats and recommends using trazodone for reducing anxiety during vet visits.

Takeaways

• Cats scratch around their food bowl before and after eating to clear away debris and mimic natural instincts.
• CBD may not be effective for anxiety in cats, and it's important to consult a vet for appropriate behavioral medications.
• Transitioning cats from dry to wet food can be done gradually, using food toppers and high-quality wet food.
• Bathing cats is generally unnecessary, as they are self-cleaning animals.
• Mistakes in cat boundaries can be corrected by showing a willingness to respect their boundaries and making adjustments gradually.
• Positive reinforcement, such as high-value rewards, can help cats get along with each other.
• Inappropriate defecation may have medical or litter box-related causes, and it's important to consult a vet and consider environmental factors.
• Transitioning cats from a treat-only diet to regular cat food can be done gradually, mixing treats and dry food.
• Addressing 3 a.m. howling involves providing physical and intellectual stimulation, such as play and auto feeders.
• Cats use their tails to communicate various emotions, such as happiness, fear, agitation, and excitement.
• It's okay for cats to watch videos on phones, as it provides intellectual stimulation, but it's important to pair it with play to prevent frustration. Use play and puzzle feeders to keep cats mentally stimulated and prevent them from eating too quickly.
• Provide visual stimulation for cats through cat TV or bird feeders.
• Regular play and interaction with cats is important to prevent boredom and obesity.
• Introduce new cats gradually and use Feliway products to create a positive environment.
• Distinguish between play fighting and fighting by observing body language and vocalizations.
• Regular play and exercise are essential for cats' physical and mental well-being.
• Carrier train cats by making the carrier a positive and familiar space.
• Consider using trazodone to reduce anxiety during vet visits.