Worried about your cat’s current behavior? Is your cat exhibiting any strange new habits? We take a look at some of the common concerning behaviors in felines, and when it’s vital to book an appointment with your local veterinarian. 

Curious cats around the globe bring pet-parents endless love and entertainment, but sometimes their behavior can also signal something is wrong. For all pet owners, it is vital that if your cat begins to suddenly show any usual mannerisms, seek professional advice and help from your local veterinarian.  

Cat Behavior and What it Means?

Cat Toilet Issues

The most common and unwanted deed is inappropriate toileting. It’s always advised to grab a clean bill of health from your vet to rule out any underlying conditions such as urinary tract infections. It’s also a good idea to get a clear picture of what the problem is, and the possible reasons why your cat could be needing to defecate or urinate in an unwanted area.

Most cats do not like using dirty litter trays. If your cat is going to the bathroom outside the litter tray, consider cleaning the litterbox daily to see if this problem reduces. Other possible reasons could be:

• Having another cat using the box
• Not liking the litter – or sudden change of litter
• Having issues with the hooded versions.

If you have examined all of these possible reasons, and are still having issues, it’s a good plan to seek out a professional cat behaviorist. The key is to do this quickly, rather than allowing the habit to fester. Surveys conducted show that it is possible to maintain a 60% success rate of feline associated behavioral problems if treatment is sought quickly. However, like with all behavioral treatment plans owners must be willing to adjust the environmental triggers alongside possible medication. 

It’s good to note that felines are highly territorial animals. When felt threatened, unsafe, or scared many cats will mark or spray urine to flood their environment with their comforting scent. Having a clear understanding of why your pet could be suddenly exhibiting this behavior will help immensely with the solution. 

Consider:

• Has there been a change in the environment or a move of residence?
• A new family member? 
• A new pet?
• A threatening new cat in the neighborhood?
• Excessive fighting?
• Any reason for your cat to feel stressed?
• Age?

Keep a diary and take as much information as possible to your feline veterinarian.

Other common behaviors that pet owners care concerned about are; 

• Cats hiding from owners or visitors – the scared cat
• Attacking other cats and/or people – the brave cat
• Don’t like other cats

The good news is, these are all quite normal behaviors for felines and not something to be concerned about. It’s more a case of managing the situation and understanding if your cat is a scared cat or a brave cat.

Explaining Cat Behavior

As many multiple feline owners can attest; cats do not normally like the company of other cats, particularly if they are older than 18months old – cue the hissing and catfights. Older cats may learn to tolerate new felines but hoping for them to become lifelong snuggle-buddies can be an unrealistic expectation.

Behaviors that could signal a health problem:

• Obsessive biting of limbs or licking
• Excessive yowling
• Excessive thirst or urination
• Spraying/marking
• Unusual urination or defecation
• Flickering eyes

If you notice any of the above behaviors in your feline friend is it advisable to seek professional help from a cat behaviorist or your local vet. The sooner your cat has a correct diagnosis, the more likely they are to make a full recovery.