Tag: cat behavior

How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell

Posted on February 8, 2024 - 2:40 pm by
Two hands wearing yellow rubber gloves holding a spray bottle and a rag over white carpet.

It’s an eye-watering smell that’s instantly recognizable — cat pee. Litter typically does a great job at deodorizing cat pee, so when you smell it in your house, you know something’s not right. And so the hunt for the source of the stench begins. Behind the couch? The laundry basket? Under the bed — or worse, on the bed?

In situations like this, it’s good to be prepared and have the supplies you need to remove cat urine odor and stains as quickly as possible. The sooner you clean cat urine up, the easier it is to eliminate that lingering cat pee odor. To help you know what to do when a urine cat-astrophe inevitably happens, we’ve got some cat pee cleaning tips and some advice on how to prevent urinary accidents in the first place. So bookmark this page for future reference!

Why Does Cat Pee Stink So Bad?

Although cat pee has a very strong and distinctive smell, normal cat urine is actually about 95 percent water. The tell-tale acidic smell of cat pee comes from urea, uric acid, creatinine and ammonia, which are the natural waste products of broken-down protein in the urine. If you notice a strong ammonia smell coming from the litter box, that’s caused by urea in the pee being broken down into ammonia by bacteria in the environment. If you smell ammonia coming from the litter box, that’s a good sign that the litter needs your attention.

Even More Reasons for That Cat Urine Smell

Cat urine generally smells worse than dog urine because it’s more concentrated and it contains felinine. Found only in the urine of domestic cats and their close relatives (e.g., bobcats and lynx), felinine is a sulfur-containing amino acid that is actually odorless. But it breaks down into highly volatile and stinky compounds. Unneutered male cats (tom cats) typically have smellier urine due to testosterone and higher amounts of felinine in their pee.

If You Smell It, Clean It

If your cat has had an “accident,” don’t wait to clean it. Dried urine stains are harder to remove and the smell will become stronger the longer the cat urine is left there. As well as removing the smell so you can breathe fresh air again, quickly removing the urine stain and odor helps ensure your cat doesn’t use the same spot again next time. If they (or another cat in your home) can smell cat urine, they’ll likely keep using it as their new place to pee.

What Not to Do to Get Rid of Cat Urine Odor and Stains

We’re going to go over a few “don’ts” first. Don’t scrub or rub the urine — you’ll just make it soak in even further. Don’t use a steam cleaner by itself because the heat can make the cat urine stains and smells even worse. Don’t use any ammonia-based products because your cat may be attracted by the ammonia smell and pee in the same area again. Don’t punish your cat. There is typically a reason a cat pees outside their box, and you need to work out what that is (more on that later).

How to Clean Up Cat Urine

The Ohio State University Indoor Pet Initiative has some useful tips on cleaning urine off different surfaces. The supplies you should keep on hand include white vinegar, paper towels, club soda and possibly an enzyme cleaner. Here is a summary of their cat urine cleaning tips plus recommendations from the Sleep Foundation on removing cat urine from a mattress.

How to Get the Cat Pee Smell Out of Clothes

Machine wash your laundry using a cup of white vinegar and no detergent. Once the cycle is done, repeat the wash using regular detergent.

How to Get the Cat Pee Smell Out of Carpet

Use a towel or paper towels to blot up as much of the urine as you can. Cover the area with paper towels or a towel and stand on them — do this several times. Saturate the area with carpet cleaner or a few drops of dish detergent mixed with water and let it sit for an hour or two. Rinse the spot by gently blotting and using a wet sponge with water to rinse again. Soak the area with club soda for 10 minutes then blot up the club soda and put a pile of paper towels on the spot again with something heavy on top overnight. The next morning, spray the area with an enzyme cleaner. If your cat continues to use the area, you may need to replace the padding underneath the carpet.

How to Clean Cat Pee Off Linoleum or Hardwood

For linoleum, use paper towels or a mop soaked in soapy water to wipe up the pee. Rinse the area with warm water and then wipe with a sponge moistened with white vinegar and let the floor air dry. For hardwood floors, blot the urine then use an enzyme cleaner. If the smell remains, you may need to sand, bleach and refinish the hardwood floor.

How to Get Cat Pee Smell Out of a Mattress

If your cat pees on your mattress, the Sleep Foundation recommends blotting with paper towels or a towel to soak up as much liquid as possible. Mix a solution of half water and half distilled vinegar in a spray bottle, spray the area and then blot again. Cover the area with a generous layer of baking soda and let it sit on the mattress for as long as possible (at least 8 hours). Vacuum off the baking soda and repeat the vinegar and baking soda process until the odor and stains are gone. They recommend using an enzyme cleaner if the vinegar and baking soda don’t work.

Why Do Cats Pee Outside Their Litter Box?

If your cat is urinating everywhere but their kitty litter box, you should investigate why. It could be a health issue, a dirty litter box, behavioral issues or territorial marking. The quicker you address the problem, the easier it will be to get your cat using the correct place again.

Health conditions like bladder stones and crystals, bacterial urinary tract infections and feline idiopathic cystitis cause pain and an increased urgency to go. Your cat may associate their litter box with this pain so they urinate elsewhere. If your cat is urinating more than usual due to some other health reason, your litter box cleaning schedule may not be keeping up with the amount of urine as they’re producing and they won’t use it.

A change of lifestyle, routine or diet can cause stress which may cause urinary accidents. A perception of a threat to your cat’s territory like an outdoor cat in the yard or new pets or people in your home can trigger urine spraying.

If you have an older cat, arthritis may be making it harder to get into the litter box, so make sure you get one with low sides. Older cats can also suffer cognitive dysfunction (like dementia in people) and forget where the box is.

Cats Like a Clean Litter Box

To keep litter boxes inviting places to use, it’s recommended that you scoop the litter daily, change all of the litter weekly and do a deep clean every few weeks. A general rule is to have one litter box per cat plus an extra one. It should be placed in a quiet, private area that’s away from their food.

It’s an unpleasant task, but make sure you’re paying attention to what’s going on in the box to watch out for health issues. Does the urine smell worse, are there larger or smaller amounts of urine, has the frequency of using the box changed?

Accidents happen, but regular inappropriate urination isn’t normal. If you notice any changes in your cat’s urinary habits, contact your veterinarian so they can check if your cat is healthy and help get your cat peeing in the correct place again.

Surprise Things You Can Do to Make Your Cat Happy

Posted on September 14, 2023 - 1:35 pm by
A black, white and brown cat sitting in a white room surrounded by confetti and balloons.

Happy Cat Month, pet owners! Yes, you read that right. September marks the annual Happy Cat Month created by CATalyst Council. This celebratory month was established to spread education about the health, happiness and importance of companion cats. So, keeping this in mind, what ways can you surprise your cat and bring them some extra joy this September?

Quality Time Makes Happy Cats

Cats may seem like independent, quiet creatures, but they appreciate socializing with their humans just as much as dogs do. They’re usually a little less vocal than a doggo about needing attention, but they need it all the same. So, our first surprise for Mittens is to add extra spurts of playtime and cuddles throughout your daily routine. Life can get busy, but cat time can be the purrfect excuse to take a much-needed break. Quality time often improves Mittens’ mental health, which lessens anxiety and destructive behavior. An extra ten to twenty minutes here and there adds up. And according to Pet MD, at least one hour of play a day can increase your cat’s life span. Studies have also shown that cuddling your cat can lower your blood pressure and help fight off loneliness, depression, anxiety and stress. Just make sure Mittens is in the mood for kitty cuddles before going all ham on them.

Throw a Party for Your Cat

Happy cats sometimes call for a cat-themed parties for your toe-beaned friend. If your pet is a more social individual, consider inviting some family and friends over for snacks and showering the cat of the hour with all kinds of attention. Whip up a cat-friendly treat or visit a local pet store for the perfect cupcake-like cat treat to go along with the human foods. Top off the party with photo booth props and an area where attendees can snap some pics with Mittens.

If your pet is not a social butterfly, that’s OK! Pick a day where you and/or your household hosts a tiny party for Mittens. You can still surprise them with some yummy homemade treats and photo opportunities around the house. We’re pawsitive that as long as your pet is partying it up with you, they’ll be a happy camper.

Outdoors Is a Natural Cat Happy Place

Cats who spend time outside are stimulated by all the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Try leash training your cat to take them on short strolls through the backyard. They’ll have new areas to sniff, grass to eat and wildlife to watch. Reach for the flea and tick medicine before taking Mittens outside, though, so you don’t bring any parasites back into your house. One way to make your feline unhappy is dealing with literal blood suckers.

Another way to get your cat outdoors and enjoying the fresh air is with the help of a pet tent or a catio. Pet tents can be found at local pet stores or online. This portable option can be set up anywhere outside (or inside). It can be stocked with a water bowl, toys and other comfort items, too, to help Mittens enjoy their time lying in a collapsible shelter outdoors. We recommend setting up the tent indoors first, to help your cat get acquainted with the new item prior to its outdoor use.

An upgrade from a pet tent is a catio. This option is less portable but could offer your pet more space to climb and crawl around in. Catios can be ordered online or created from various materials picked up at the local hardware store and thrift shops. It provides your cat with a stable, stationary enclosure anywhere in the yard. They’re often weatherproofed and can be fitted with multiple shelves, cat hammocks and cat huts. We’re sure Mittens is happy just envisioning this possibility!

Planting Catnip and Cat Grass

Continuing with the nature theme, bring a little outdoors inside for Mittens. Consider planting pots of catnip and cat grass near your cat’s favorite window. Both plants are feline favorites!

Cat grass may look like grass from your backyard, but rest assured it’s not! It’s typically grown from rye, barley, oat, wheat or alfalfa seeds. Cat grass provides your favorite feline with antioxidants, chlorophyll, vitamins and additional nutrients that promote overall gut and immune health. It also aids in removing hairballs and enhances mental stimulation. Cat grass can be found online or at a local pet store.

Catnip plants are a member of the mint family. You can add catnip to a homemade recipe or give it to them raw as a treat. This plant can help reduce anxiety and enhance positive associations to objects, events or locations. Because of its holistic calming effect, some veterinarians recommend catnip when anxious pets must travel. When cats come into contact with the catnip plant, they’ll likely roll around, show increased affection or may play-bite. Do not be alarmed — they’re just showing you how happy they are with their new catnip.

Dental Toys Make a Healthy and Happy Cat

Who doesn’t love a new toy? And when a new cat toy can double as a way to better your cat’s health, it’s a win-win! Add cat dental toys to the lineup of surprises to upgrade your cat’s hygiene habits. From catnip sticks to wiggle worm (plastic) chew toys, there’s a wide array of options at your local pet store or online.

Now, it’s important to note that cat dental toys do not replace a vet visit and teeth cleaning, but they do freshen your pet’s teeth as they play and chew. Cat dental toys can also keep your pet mentally stimulated as they gnaw on something throughout the day. We think Mittens will be delighted to maintain their mouth health and get a new toy to play with.

Ensure Optimal Health for a Happy Cat

Now a surprise Mittens might not be expecting is an annual vet checkup. But it’s worth adding to your September to-do list. By taking your favorite feline in for an annual checkup, you can catch any potential issues early (cats are notorious for hiding pain or discomfort), and this will save money in the long run. Surprise, Mittens! You get to live a healthier, fuller life.

No matter which surprises you choose to bestow upon your furry friend, we’re sure they are going to love the thought and time you put into celebrating this annual holiday. We hope this September enhances the care your cat needs, strengthens the human-feline bond you’ve already established and leads to a lifetime of furry happiness for you both.

RELATED POST: How to Interpret Your Cat’s Behavior: A Taste of the Wild Guide

Common Cat Behaviors and How to Correct Them

Posted on June 8, 2023 - 1:50 pm by
Interior graphic detailing reasons for litter box issues and potential solutions.

At some point, most cat owners deal with at least one of the following behaviors. Deal with any of them long enough, and you’ll be yearning to correct that cat behavior.

Why do cats do the things they do? Well, cats aren’t people, and are often oblivious to what is or is not acceptable behavior by human standards. Kittens are still learning the ropes of how to cat, and older felines are holding onto learned behaviors. There’s a lot to declaw here, for them and you.

The good news is that no matter your cat’s age, with a little TLC, lots of patience and some clicker training you can help curb unwanted actions and redirect their attention. Here’s how to curb a few common cat behaviors.

Scratch That!

Cats have an instinctive urge to scratch. They’re not doing this to destroy your furniture. Your feline is scratching to express their emotions, mark an object, file their nails or get in a good stretch.

Help your cat “file” their nails by trimming their claws every ten days to two weeks. You can schedule a vet appointment or you can carefully trim them at home.

Provide your furry friend with sturdy scratching posts to help them express emotions or get in that good stretch without causing damage to furniture. Some cats prefer horizontal scratching posts while others prefer something more vertical. Keep their preferences in mind while finding the right scratching post for Mittens. When in doubt, provide one of each.

Place the scratching post near the object you’d like them to avoid. Then cover the spot they keep clawing on the furniture with double-sided sticky tape, furniture protectors or sandpaper as a deterrent. Each time they go to scratch the furniture, divert their attention to their new scratching post. Follow that up with paws-itive reinforcement to show them the desired behavior is appreciated.

Litter Box Woes

When cats choose to relieve themselves outside of the box, there could be a simple fix or it could indicate there’s a larger issue at hand. First, let’s examine potential internal or external factors. Do any of the following situations sound familiar?

Interior graphic detailing reasons for litter box issues and potential solutions.

Grumpy Cat Stand-In

Is your feline exuding grumpy cat vibes? Cats are not aggressive animals by nature, so let’s step back and look at the situation. If your cat’s body language seems relaxed and their ears are pointed forward as they get a bit aggressive, it’s likely that they’re just playing.

However, if they flatten their ears, show their teeth or puff up their fur, this is a sign they’re ready to fight. Do not try to physically engage an angry cat. They’re asking for their space. An angry cat could be the result of one of the following.

Interior graphic detailing reasons for grumpy or aggressive cat behaviors and potential solutions.

If you notice other unwanted behaviors, check to make sure Mittens has an appropriate number of outlets for playing, exercising, scratching and climbing. Sometimes, a tired kitty is a well-behaved kitty, and exercise can solve those problems all by itself. If all the options mentioned so far do not work, make a hissing noise or holler, “Ah, ah, ahhh” to get your cat’s attention. It’s not a long-term fix, but it can stop the behavior in the moment and allow you to divert their interest to a more desirable behavior and use positive reinforcements to let them know they’ve made the right choice.

Training your furry feline is not an overnight process, so don’t lose hope or commitment — especially if you have an older cat. They’re having to unlearn years of lived behavior.

Why Do Cats Purr?

Posted on May 11, 2023 - 2:30 pm by
A gray kitten with its eyes closed with a human hand on its head next to text that reads ‘Are they PURRRfectly content?’.

While cats may not be able to communicate in human tongues, their body language and purrs can be worth a thousand words. But are those words always PAWSitive?

Contrary to popular belief, purring isn’t always an indication that your cat is calm and happy. Researchers have found that cats can express a variety of emotions through the act of purring. Here are some reasons your cat purrs, and some things to watch out for as well.


Mother/Kitten Bonding

Kittens are born deaf and blind, so they rely on the vibrations their mother sends out when purring to lead them toward milk. The mother cat can also use her purr as a lullaby to soothe her babies and strengthen their bond. Kittens can return the favor, as they begin purring as early as two days old or as late as three weeks old. The kitten’s hum signals to their mother they’re safe, content and happy.

Don’t Worry, Be Happy

A happy, purring cat will stretch out, take up space and breathe slow and steady. They will also keep their ears and whiskers slightly forward or in a neutral position. They’re in their happy place, so if you’re petting them, cuddling them or just talking to them, keep it up! Your furry companion’s purr signals they are purrfectly content.

Now, if you pet is hunching down, wide-eyed and has their ears and whiskers down, they’re likely anxious or frightened. A higher-pitched purr, potentially with panting, indicates your cat is trying to soothe themselves. Researchers have found that purring can calm a cat in stressful situations like visiting the vet or seeing a dog in the backyard.

Starvin’ Marvin

It’s food time! Or so your furry feline thinks. When your cat is hungry or they want something else badly enough, they will combine purring with an unpleasant meow that resembles a human baby’s cry. Cats notice that humans are more likely to get up and grab the food or treats the moment they hear that specific sound.

It’s OK to be “trained” by your cat, within reason. Follow the directions on your cat’s food packaging to ensure your feline does not use this purr-and-meow tactic to overeat. Too much food can lead to health complications like diabetes. Your local veterinarian can also help you determine a good feeding regimen if needed.

That Healing Touch

You may notice your cat purring even in painful moments. Purring can ease pain and help regulate your cat’s breathing. A purr’s low-frequency vibration of 25 to 150 Hertz (Hz) can even stimulate muscles and promote healing. When your feline is in pain, you’ll notice the increased purring is accompanied by faster breathing, agitation and/or mobility changes. If you think your cat might be in pain, consult with your local veterinarian to ensure they receive proper care.

Now the next time your cat purrs, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge of how that purr should be received. But if your cat doesn’t purr at all, it’s not an immediate red flag. A lack of purring could be a matter of your cat’s origin, communication style or physical state. Here’s a brief breakdown of reasons your cat might skip the purrs all together.

  • If your cat had feral parents, your fur baby was likely taught to be very quiet in hopes of avoiding notice by This is why cats raised in the wild are often quieter than domestic felines.
  • Like people, cats have different ways of communicating their thoughts and feelings. A quieter cat could show their happiness in other ways such as cuddling or head bunting their human. Happiness doesn’t require the purr!
  • Similar to a human’s laughter, some cats can purr louder or quieter than others. You may miss your cat purring if you’re listening for a loud sound and they hum on a lower frequency. In addition, many medical conditions — such as muscle disorders, trauma or an autoimmune condition — can prevent your cat from sending out an audible purr. Visit with your local veterinarian if you suspect your cat isn’t purring due to an ailment.

We hope you now feel purrfectly versed in all the reasons your cat may (or may not!) purr. As always, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you feel that your cat needs medical attention.

RELATED POST: Why Do Cats Need to Knead?

Is Your Cat Happy?

Posted on September 15, 2022 - 2:30 pm by
Taste of the Wild

By now you’ve probably seen the trending videos of doggos bouncing to “I’m a happy guy, just a happy, happy guy.” But what about the cats of the world? Are they bouncing happily about, too?

If you’ve ever owned a cat, you’ll know it’s likely that they are not bouncing around like a bunch of happy dogs. But just because they’re not bouncing around doesn’t mean they’re not gleeful. Cats in general are simply more curious… and restrained.

Cats exhibit happiness in different ways. Knowing what signs to look for in your cat can help you see just how purrfectly satisfied your cat has been this entire time.

Good Grooming Habits

A content cat will groom themselves frequently and often in front of you. The next time they plop down in the middle of the room and hike up a leg for an impromptu bath, remember it’s their way of saying, “Hello, I’m doing great!”

If your cat begins to show signs of an unkept coat, it could be a heads-up that they’re not feeling well. We recommend giving your local vet a call as soon as regular grooming is no longer a top priority for your feline.

Happy Cat Acoustics

Cats can make nearly 100 different vocalizations. Feline noises associated with positive body language — tail up, rubbing up against you, etc. — are a great sign. It’s their way of communicating their level of happiness. For example, if you’re rubbing their belly and your cat is purring away, they’re saying, “Loving this! Keep it up, hooman!”

Now you may notice that some cats are more vocal than others. That doesn’t necessarily mean they’re significantly more content. Like humans, some cats just like to communicate more.

Making Biscuits

We all know how adorable it is when cats knead or “make biscuits” with bedding or your lap. But did you know this is also a sign that your furry companion is feeling safe and loved? It’s true! This motion is instinctive behavior felines begin exhibiting after they’re born.

Kneading can also mean they’re marking their territory. According to veterinarians, cats produce a substance called “interdigital semiochemical” between their toes. When the cat makes biscuits and flexes their toes, this chemical is released to label you or that spot as safe territory.

Tails Up

As you bond with your cat, start observing their day-to-day postures and facial expressions to evaluate what they’re responding positively or negatively to. A cat’s body language can say a lot about how they’re feeling.

If they’re scrunched down, wiggling their behind and have dilated eyes, they’re ready to pounce and play. If they’re stretched out and lounging in front of you, they’re relaxed. Or if they’re walking with their tail up with a little curve at the end, they’re happy as a lark.

Greeting Their Human

Being a cat owner, walking in the door from a trip to the grocery store usually means you’re greeted with a cat by your feet. To you, it’s a game of don’t trip over the cat and drop the eggs. But to Mittens, it’s their way of saying, “Welcome home! I’m ecstatic you’ve returned.” Happy cats will lift their head, meow, rub up against your leg or blink slowly whether you’re entering through the front door or walking in their direction.

Regular Litter Box Usage

Not only do you want your cat to use their litter box because it keeps your place cleaner, but it also signals that they’re doing okay, health-wise. And we all want our furry feline to be feeling well.

A sick or unhappy cat will try to communicate with their human that something is off by going to the bathroom near the box but not in it. If this is a persistent issue, make an appointment with your local veterinarian.

Eating and Sleeping Well

Gleeful cats will eat and sleep regularly, meaning they aren’t suddenly awake different hours of the day. What’s a normal amount of sleep for a cat? Typically between 12 to 16 hours a day depending on their age. Kittens and older cats can sleep up to 20 hours a day.

Happy, healthy cats typically don’t shun a healthy diet (as determined by pet food packaging and/or your veterinarian). But it’s good to remember that food intake is also based on age and life stage.

If you notice your cat’s sleep and eating habits are out of sorts, contact your veterinarian as this could also be another warning sign your pet is not feeling well.

After evaluating your cat’s level of happiness, how do you feel? If Mittens doesn’t seem like the most happy or content cat, get with your veterinarian and see what you can do to help!

RELATED POST: Enrichment Tips to Keep Your Indoor Cat Happy

Clicker Training for Cats: A Beginner’s Guide

Posted on May 12, 2022 - 2:08 pm by
A cartoon hand holding a clicker with sound waves emanating from it.

It’s not just clever canines who can be trained to follow commands and do tricks — fancy felines can do it, too! While cats don’t live for praise like dogs do, as long as you’ve got a tasty treat ready, they’re usually quite willing to follow your cues.

Clicker training cats has many benefits. It provides your cat with mental stimulation, it strengthens your bond with your cat, and it can help curb bad behaviors like counter surfing or furniture scratching. You can also use clicker training as a way to teach your cat some fun tricks! Here are some cat training tips to get you started.

How Does Cat Clicker Training Work?

Obviously, the first thing you’ll need is a clicker. Some clickers are louder than others, so you may have to test which clicker your cat prefers. You’ll also need to pick up a pack of your cat’s favorite treats. These need to be small, high-value treats that they can’t resist — don’t use their normal cat food or treats as they won’t be as motivated by these. Make sure you use the right reward; if your cat isn’t food-motivated, then use a favorite toy instead. Either way, you’ll want to reserve the reward for training time only.

Start by introducing your feline friend to the clicker. Push the button on the device and then immediately hand them their high-value reward. If you’re using a toy, pick it up after a few seconds. Repeat these steps for as long as your cat is interested; training sessions will probably only last a few minutes. The training process may take some time, but once your cat begins to understand that a reward is given after the clicking sound, they’ll start looking for treats or the toy when they hear the clicker. Once they start responding consistently to the clicker, you’re ready to teach your cat some tricks!

How to Train a Cat to Sit

Begin by holding the clicker in one hand and a reward in the other. When your cat is standing on all fours, place the reward in front of their nose. Once they begin to sniff the reward, slowly move it from their nose to their ear. In the process, they will likely raise their chin, eyes and back before placing their bottom on the floor. As soon as your cat sits on the floor, click and give them a reward. Once they’re catching on, you can add in the vocal cue “sit.” Timing will be essential for your cat to learn this behavior. Repeat, repeat and repeat some more!

Train Your Cat to Wave

If your friends are impressed that your cat sits on command, this will blow their mind. Grab your clicker and your cat’s reward. Hide the reward in your hand in front of your cat’s nose. When they extend their paw to investigate, quickly click and reward them before your cat makes contact with your hand. Repeat these motions, but raise your fist a little higher each time until your cat cannot reach your hand.

Click and reward every attempt at first. In later training sessions, click and reward only during the highest waves. After your cat is consistently offering a wave, you can transition from a closed hand to a small hand wave. Now you’ll be able to wave at your cat — and they’ll wave back!

Using Clicker Training to Encourage Good Behavior

You can also use clicker training to help curb unwanted behavior like scratching furniture. First, purchase a scratching post if you don’t already own one. Set the post up somewhere that you can easily see when your cat uses it. Push the clicker the exact moment your cat is scratching the post, then immediately follow that with their chosen reward (treat or toy). Timing will be crucial. Every time you see your cat scratching the correct surface, immediately click and provide the reward. While they’re still learning, it can help to cover up the furniture to avoid temptation.

As with all cat training exercises, repetition is important to reinforce this positive behavior. When your cat habitually scratches the correct surface, you can gradually phase out the clicker and rewards.

How to Train a Kitten with a Clicker

It doesn’t matter whether you have a kitten or a senior cat, you can try clicker training cats of any age. Training kittens is usually easier, but they also have shorter attention spans. Approach training a kitten the same way that you would an adult cat; kittens may be more likely to appreciate a toy reward, though. And just like any form of training, consistency is key.

Cat Training Is Possible!

Despite popular belief, cats are quite trainable, just like dogs. However, it will take some time, treats, patience and positive reinforcement to train them to learn each command you introduce. Training sessions will likely keep your cat’s focus for only a few minutes.

After your cat learns these basic skills, you can go on to teach them how to roll over, jump through a hoop, feel more comfortable with their carrier and so on. The possibilities are endless for you and your kitty cat!

Why Do Cats Need to Knead?

Posted on August 12, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
A close-up of two cat paws.

For some cats, kneading seems like the pinnacle of Zen contentment. They close their eyes and rhythmically press one paw, then the other, often extending and releasing their nails at the same time. In this meditative state, they may drool slightly or rev up their purring engine to the loudest setting. But what’s behind this behavior?

Instinctive nursing behavior

Shortly after birth, kittens often knead to stimulate their mother’s milk flow, a behavior dubbed “milk treading” by noted zoologist Desmond Morris. This behavior may continue into adulthood as a way to show contentment. Snuggled in your lap or in a soft bed, your cat may knead as a way to communicate how happy they are there. And the drool? Perhaps it’s a feline version of Pavlov’s dog: they salivate in anticipation of the milk they received as kittens.

Labeling “what’s mine”

Your cat has scent glands on their paw pads, so when they knead, they leave an olfactory message for other cats that says, “I was here” or “this is mine.” Contented cats may also rub their lips, cheeks or foreheads on their owners for the same reason, to leave a personal message from scent glands in those areas.

A calming influence

Cats may also knead when they’re feeling anxious, as a self-soothing behavior. For instance, cats in unfamiliar surroundings, such as a boarding facility or veterinary clinic, may knead to block out distractions and focus on a feeling of contentment.

Creating a nest

Just as dogs turn in circles before lying down, a behavior that may come from their wild ancestors who tamped down the grass to make a bed, cat kneading may be an instinctive behavior to clear a place to rest.

Kneading until it hurts

Some cats may get downright aggressive with their kneading, using all four paws, sinking claws into human skin and yowling loudly. The cats are often in a trance-like state with legs that twitch or move stiffly.

If that happens, avoid punishing the cat. Kneading is a natural behavior, and negative reinforcement will likely confuse the cat and cause additional stress. There are, however, a number of things you can do:

  • Keep your cat’s nails trimmed.
  • When your cat kneads on you, place a thicker blanket between you and your fur baby.
  • Redirect your cat’s behavior to a different area, such as a blanket or cushion.
  • Distract your cat with treats or a play session with their favorite toy.

If the kneading becomes excessive, it’s possible your cat is feeling stressed about something and resorts to kneading to soothe itself. Synthetic pheromones such as Feliway, available in sprays or plug-in diffusers, may help the cat feel calmer. Otherwise, consult your veterinarian for other strategies to help your cat.

Cats are mysterious, but knead not to be

The ways of a cat’s mind or the whys of what they choose to do might be an ever-unsolved mystery. But they don’t have to be! Our comprehensive guide to cat behavior might shed a little light on the subject of your inscrutable kitty’s thoughts and moods. We’ll help you use your cat’s tail to tell the tale of their mood, better understand what’s in a purr, examine what your cat does all day when you’re not around, and just grasp the concept of cat behavior a little better.

Read How to Interpret Your Cat’s Behavior: A Taste of the Wild Guide here!

Enrichment Tips to Keep Your Indoor Cat Happy

Posted on February 11, 2021 - 7:48 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Life may seem a lot easier for indoor cats than their outdoor counterparts. Indoor cats don’t have to lift a paw to receive tasty, nutritious meals. They can snuggle in a warm bed in the middle of a blizzard. And they never have to worry about dodging cars or ferocious animals.

But the truth is, indoor cats need to express a lot of the natural instincts and behaviors like hiding, hunting, scratching and scent marking that outdoor cats accomplish organically. When deprived of these outlets, indoor cats can become stressed, potentially leading to illness and unwanted behaviors.

As part of National Cat Health Month, we’re sharing indoor cat enrichment tips to help you make sure your indoor kitty is as happy and comfortable as possible.

Make your cat feel more at home

Understanding your cat’s needs can help you make small changes that will have a big impact on his or her well-being. Here are a few examples:

A private sanctuary — As the actress Greta Garbo famously quipped, “I want to be alone.” Cats seek private time, too. Cats cope with noisy workmen, overzealous children and other household pets by escaping to a place where they can hide and feel safe. Ideally, provide each cat with a quiet room where it can sleep without feeling vulnerable. If possible, include a bed or box for hiding, food and water bowls, toys and other resources your cat may need.

A bird’s eye view — Many cats prefer to survey their kingdom from above. Cat trees and perches that attach to the wall or windowsill offer the opportunity to climb and observe the world from a safe place. Even better, position the cat tree near a window where your feline can keep an eye on the bird feeder outside.

The right litter boxes — Cats can be particular about their litter box preferences. As a rule of thumb, there should be one litter box per cat in the household, plus one more. Boxes should be about one and a half times the length of the cat (excluding the tail). Cats generally prefer uncovered boxes with unscented, scoopable litter. Boxes should be placed in private but easily accessible locations. You should clean litter at least once a day, and wash the box with mild dish soap once a week.

Physical and mental stimulation — Although cats often like routine, monotony can cause stress and lead to illness and behaviors such as overgrooming. Take time each day to get your cat moving, whether it’s a game of fetch or a laser pointer chase. Some cats can even be trained to walk on a leash. Food puzzles can help stimulate your cat’s mind and make them work for each meal. Toys should be rotated on a regular basis to keep things fresh.

Something to scratch — Cats like to scratch to shed dried nail husks and sharpen their nails. But even declawed cats need to stretch and mark the area with pheromones from the scent glands in their paws. Providing vertical or horizontal scratching posts can provide cats with a suitable place to flex their paws.

An opportunity to hunt — Cats rarely tire of the thrill of the chase. Help your cat express their predatory instincts with toys that mimic the hunting experience. Wands with feathers and bells, toys that squeak or race across the floor all give your cat a chance to stalk and pounce. Finish the game with treat rewards to satisfy the experience of eating prey.

Personal space — In multiple-cat households, competition for resources such as the litter box, food or toys can cause anxiety. Make sure to distribute these items around the house so cats have an opportunity to enjoy them without another cat (or dog) pushing them out of the way.

By minimizing stress and helping your cat express its natural behaviors, you can strengthen the bond between you and your indoor feline companion.

Your Cat’s Tail: A Translation

Posted on July 27, 2017 - 6:14 am by
Taste of the Wild

Does it seem that your cat intentionally keeps you guessing about what’s in his or her mind? Guess what: your cat is actually giving you hints — with its tail. In fact, tail position is one way cats communicate with other animals. If you know how to decode the language, you can understand what your cat is trying to say to you, too.

Of course, every cat is unique and may have his or her own way of communicating, but in general, here’s what your cat may be saying with its tail.

An interior graphic detailing how to translate your cat's tail with nine different tail positions and what these positions may indicate.

Of course, knowing what your cat is saying with his or her tail is just the start. Your cat also uses facial expressions and other body parts to communicate. Once you become more fluent in your cat’s body language, you’ll realize that he or she actually talks to you quite a bit — without saying a word.

Top 8 Litter Box Training Issues & What to Do About Them

Posted on March 24, 2016 - 9:19 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Many cats experience a litter box issue at some point in their lives. Finding the root cause is the key to helping your kitty love the litter box again. Here are a few of the most commonly found litter box training issues and what you can do to alleviate them.

Ew, I Can’t Go In There!

A cat making a silly expression while looking around.

Is your precious furball eliminating everywhere except their litter box? It could mean their litter box needs a thorough cleaning.

Avoid any issues with cleanliness by removing clumps daily and changing the litter at least twice weekly for non-clumping and monthly for clumping. Whenever you change the litter, wash the litter box with soap and water (avoid bleach and ammonia).

Notice a lingering smell? Toss it out! If you can notice a smell, you can bet your cat’s sensitive nose definitely smells it.

This Is Mine

A cat lying on a couch by itself next to text that reads, 'Sorry, couch is full'.

Territorial cats tend to mark their territory by “spraying” items around the house. Spraying is a common problem for cats that have not been spayed or neutered. Typically, spaying and neutering an intact cat will often resolve the issue.

And remember — it’s best to use the formula “cats + 1” to determine the number of litter boxes you need in the home if you have multiple kitties. (You’ll need three litter boxes for two cats, four litter boxes for three cats, and so on.)

Have feuding cats? This can also cause the problem to escalate. Separate any territorial cats and reintroduce them slowly.

It’s Not Just Right

A cat closing its eyes with a tear rolling down its cheek.

Your cat may be a feline Goldilocks — the litter box has to be juuuust right. If your cat is uncomfortable in the litter box, chances are good that they will avoid eliminating there. Take a look at the litter box and ask yourself these questions:

  • Is the litter box hard for your cat to get into? (Do they need better accessibility?)
  • Is the litter box the right size? (Too small is uncomfortable, too big is scary.)
  • Does the litter box have a hood? (If yes, your cat might feel claustrophobic. If no, your cat might feel overexposed.)
  • Does the litter have a scent or an odd texture? Is there too much or too little litter in the litter box? (Cats are sensitive to textures and smells. Try a new litter that is better suited for their senses.)

Location, Location, Location

A cat running down steps past a frightened kitten that is having trouble going down the steps.

Sometimes the root of your litter box problem can be as simple as its location. Have you recently moved your litter box? It could be that your cat is having a hard time remembering where it is… or they are unimpressed with the new location. Gently remind your cat where the litter box is and see if anything in the area is putting them off using the litter box.

Make sure your cat can easily locate and use the litter box. If a litter box is all the way in the basement, your cat may be having an issue reaching it. If that’s the case, your cat may need a litter box on each floor of your house.

That Box Is Scary!

A frightened cat raising its paw to its face.

Like humans, cats can associate things or places with a memory. If that association is something negative, it could lead to litter box avoidance. If there is a negative sentiment, help create a safe, quiet space for your kitty to eliminate in an effort to make it a positive experience.

Has someone in your house reacted to your cat eliminating outside of his or her litter box by placing his or her in it as punishment? Many pet owners think this helps teach their cat a lesson, but in reality, it causes cats to avoid the litter box.

Is There an Underlying Medical Issue?

A cat wrapped in a blanket lying face up in a sink bowl.

In some cases, inappropriate elimination is a health issue. Common illnesses that cause elimination issues include urinary tract infection (UTI), bladder stones or blockages and feline interstitial cystitis.

If you believe your cat is suffering from a medical issue, consult your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian will walk through the steps to identify these health issues.

I’m Not Trying to Make a Mess

A used litter box with litter scattered all over the floor.

While kicking litter out of a litter box may seem like an irrational practice to pet owners, it is a logical step for a cat. Cats make an indentation in the litter when preparing to eliminate. Afterwards, the cat covers it up with litter, and if the walls aren’t tall enough, you will have litter everywhere.

To fix this, the easiest solutions are to either buy a new litter box with taller walls or fix up the current one you own.

If you prefer to keep your current litter box, consider placing it in a large plastic storage box. Be sure to cut an opening in one of the sides for your cat to easily access the litter box. This solution may be ideal for solving the stray litter issue when dealing with a cat who has joint or mobility problems.

Litter, Litter Everywhere

A white cat stepping out of an enclosed litter box.

While living with a cat can be lovely, constantly cleaning litter off your floor is not. To decrease the amount of time you spend sweeping up spilled litter, try one of these methods.

Heavier or Bulkier Litter

Many lighter litters can get stuck in your cat’s paws, meaning they are tracking that litter well after their visit to the box. If that is the case, try a heavier or bulkier litter. Be aware — you’ll need to transition between litters for the comfort of your cat.

Use a Mat

Try placing a mat outside the litter box. A mat will help trap the majority of excess litter. Avoid any mats with textures your cat has shown an aversion to.

Trim Your Cat’s Hair

Long-haired cats, as the name implies, typically have long hair between their toes. This hair often catches litter, resulting in your cat tracking it around the house. Trim the hair between their toes to help stop spreading litter.

How to Solve Other Litter Box Problems

A cat sitting on top of a bucket on the floor.

There are many problem-specific solutions to inappropriate elimination, but if you are unable to identify the root problem or if it seems your cat enjoys eliminating in a specific place at your house, try these potential solutions:

  • If possible, try closing a door or putting up a barrier to close off that area.
  • Place food bowls and treats in those favorite areas to discourage them from eliminating in that space. Cats typically will not eliminate near their food, so this tends to be successful.
  • Put a bell on your cat and catch them in the act. If you catch your cat, try to startle them to create a new association with that spot. Do not scare your cat — this will only worsen the problem.
  • Change the texture of the area. Place newspaper, plastic or sandpaper on those favorite areas.

It can be difficult to break inappropriate elimination habits. But early detection and dedicating your time to solving any underlying issues are key to controlling these problems. With time and patience, your cat will be happily using their litter box!