How to Discipline Your Cat the Right Way

The Cat Whisperer's Guide to Discipline: A Tale of Paws, Scratches, and Good Behavior

Ah, the feline. A creature of mystery, grace, and sometimes, mischief. Cats are like the mischievous children of the animal kingdom, often getting into trouble without even realizing it. They leap onto counters, chew on wires, and scratch furniture that wasn't meant to be scratched. As cat parents, we understand the frustration, but more importantly, we understand the love.

So, how do we discipline our feline friends without damaging our relationship with them or causing them harm? Enter the Cat Whisperer's Guide to Discipline. This guide will walk you through the do's and don'ts of disciplining your cat the right way. Remember, with a little patience, understanding, and a sprinkle of humor, you can turn your mischievous cat into a well-behaved companion.

Don't Compare Your Cat to a Dog

Cats and dogs are like two different species from different planets. They have their own unique personalities, quirks, and behaviors. Don't make the mistake of expecting your cat to behave like a dog. Cats are incredibly intelligent and have both long-term and short-term memories. This means they can be trained, but they also know what they can get away with. So, before you start disciplining your cat, remember that they are not like dogs and require a different approach.

Do Use Positive Reinforcement

Just like humans, cats respond well to positive reinforcement. When they do something good, reward them with attention, food, toys, or all three. Choose a motivator that your cat enjoys and use it consistently. For example, if your cat jumps on the counter, ignore them. But if they jump off, reward them with a treat and praise. This teaches them that good behavior is worth the effort.

Don't Physically Reprimand Your Cat

Never, ever physically punish your cat. Hitting, kicking, or scolding them will only cause fear, stress, and aggression. Cats are sensitive creatures, and physical punishment can lead to more problems in the future. Instead, use alternative methods of discipline, such as ignoring bad behavior or providing a scratching post for them to use.

Do Provide Alternatives for Bad Behavior

Cats often behave badly because they want to express something. For example, if your cat jumps on the counter, they might want to be up high. Provide them with a perch or a window sill bed that is about the same height as the counter. This gives them an outlet for their desire to be up high without causing any damage to your home.

Don't Scruff Your Cat

Scruffing your cat is an outdated and cruel method of discipline. It is painful for the cat and can cause them to associate fear with you. Instead, use a blanket to scoop up your cat and transport them to a safe place. This method is less stressful for both of you.

Do Use Pheromones

Pheromones are chemicals that cats use to communicate with each other. Certain pheromones, like Feliway, can be used to deter cats from scratching or marking certain areas. These pheromones signal to your cat that the area has already been "marked" and they don't need to mark it again. Additionally, providing a scratching post and placing treats or rewards around it can also help redirect your cat's scratching behavior.

Don't Make Loud Noises

Using spray bottles or noisy cans to punish or deter your cat is not effective. It will only cause your cat to be wary of you and continue the bad behavior when you're not around. Instead, use alternative methods, such as double-sided tape or aluminum foil, to deter your cat from unwanted areas.

Do Use Double-Sided Tape or Aluminum Foil

Double-sided tape or aluminum foil can be placed on surfaces you don't want your cat on or scratching. This method is particularly effective for kitchen counters or other high-traffic areas. Be sure to provide positive alternatives, such as a nearby scratching post or a piece of cat furniture, to give your cat an alternative place to climb and perch.

Don't Engage With An Aggressive Cat

If your cat shows aggression, do not respond with force. This will only escalate their aggression and reinforce their fear of you. Instead, remove yourself from the situation for a few minutes and then return when your cat is calm. Reward them with treats and praise to help them associate a positive outcome with their calm behavior.

Do Use Motion Activated Air-Sprays

Motion activated air-sprays can be placed around areas you don't want your cat to access. When the cat comes close, the device sprays air and typically deters them from coming closer. This method is effective on kitchen counters or other areas where you don't want your cat jumping up or walking.

Don't Yell

Raising your voice and yelling at your cat is not helpful when it comes to discipline. They might get scared, stressed, or nervous, especially since they have sensitive hearing. Instead, use a soft, calm tone to communicate with your cat and avoid raising your voice.

Do Say Something

If your cat is engaging in rough behavior, such as biting or scratching, use a soft "ouch" or another word to startle them. Then immediately remove yourself from the situation and go into another room. This teaches them that rough behavior means playtime or cuddles stop.

Don't Rub Your Cat’s Nose in an Accident

Rubbing your cat's nose in a spot they peed in or defecated on is not a good move. It frightens them, they don't understand why you're doing it to them, and it doesn't resolve the underlying issue. Instead, clean the area thoroughly and consider consulting with your veterinarian to rule out any medical issues.

Do Encourage and Train Good Behavior

Believe it or not, techniques used to train dogs, such as positive reinforcement clicker training, also work well in cats! Rewarding positive behavior with treats, pets, or play gives your cat the good vibes they need to continue to exhibit this behavior and it strengthens the positive bond you have with your cat. Whenever possible, give treats, praise, and attention to your cat if they're behaving nicely.

Do Rule Out Medical Issues

Sometimes, a medical issue might cause your cat to act out or develop distressing behaviors. If your cat suddenly develops troubling behaviors, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. These behaviors include: aggression or shyness in a cat that was formerly friendly, urinating inappropriately around the house, fighting with other household pets that the cat got along with previously, and acting in a way that seems "off."

Remember, disciplining your cat is about understanding their behavior and providing them with the tools they need to succeed. With patience, love, and a little humor, you can turn your mischievous cat into a well-behaved companion. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some treats, and let's embark on this journey of paws, scratches, and good behavior!