The IT Trader

Q: Is cat training possible?

A: Yes, cat training is not as frustrating as some doubters imagine it is. Cats most likely are not as responsive to training as Champ or Rover are but they are trainable. Tasty treats presented as positive reinforcement is certainly the main method to successful cat training.

Q: Why and how do kitties purr?

A: Adult kitties purr because they are happy and contented and to manipulate humans — Can you resist a purring cat? Kittens purr in answer to their mother cat’s purr to help bond them. It is widely thought that the purring is a vibration of the voicebox as air is pushed though it. It is also believed that purring is a voluntary action.

Q: What is the reason a number of folks are allergic to cats?

A: Cat allergies are caused by the proteins in cat dander generated from the cat’s saliva. The dander dries and becomes airborne. People with cat allergies have a reaction because their immune system is trying to combat the enemy protein and creates histamines.

Q: How do you stop bad cat behavior like clawing?

A: The best way to break unwanted cat behavior is the same way the mother cat controls an errant kitten. This is by scuffing the cat. You firmly but gently grasp the cat by the scruff of the neck and hold it down until it calms down. You must do this at the time of the undesirable behavior.

Q: How do you litter train a cat?

A: You really shouldn’t have to do any training for a cat to use a litter box, but if your adult cat has begun to avoid the litter pan you need to determine the cause. The cat may have a urinary tract infection in which case you need to visit the vet. If it is just too dirty you need to keep it cleaner. If you have switched to litter you may have to change back or sprinkle a little catnip in the litter to attract the cat to the new litter.

Q: How do you keep cats off counters?

A: This is the most asked about cat behavior issues and can be a difficult one. Cats like elevated spots and they often find food or food odors on counters and tables. It is best to keep the counters clean and to use something like foil or double sided tape to keep cats off the counters.