The cat or kitten is an independent animal. And educating her can be ambitious. In any case, you’ll never make her as docile a companion as a dog. But you can still teach your cat a number of life habits so that everyone can find their place in the home.
Teaching your cat to use the litter box properly
One of the first things you should teach your cat is to relieve himself in the right place. That means in the litter box, not on a carpet, in your closet or in the corner of your living room. To make him want to go, you need to put him in a quiet place that respects his privacy. The litter box should also be located far enough away from her eating and sleeping areas. You’ll also need to clean it daily (your cat may meow or even refuse to go in it if it’s dirty).
To teach your cat how to use it, you can put him in it for the first time. He should understand its use immediately. If he doesn’t respond, show him that he can scratch inside with his paws. Then take him out regularly, especially after each meal. If you notice your cat looking for privacy and sniffing the floor, it’s probably because she wants to relieve herself. This is the time to take her to the litter box.
During the first few weeks, your cat may have a few “accidents”. If this happens, take her back to the litter box again! With these few rules, things should soon be back to normal.
Getting your cat used to care
If you don’t really need to bathe your cat (she’s very clean, spending her time licking herself clean), it’s important to get her used to some routine care, such as cleaning her eyes and ears, or taking pills. For this to work, you’ll need to get him used to it from a young age, so that he’ll see these little things as normal. Of course, you’ll still need to be gentle so as not to frighten your little cat.
You may also need to trim your pet’s claws. It’s possible that he’ll do it himself, frequently scratching on a place he thinks is suitable… But it’s not necessarily so. If this is the case, be careful! He shouldn’t have the idea of scratching on your grandmother’s beautiful voltaire or on the curtains that you have lovingly made. Buy a scratching post or provide him with a log to get him in the habit of clawing on it.
Teaching your cat not to eat houseplants
Cats often have a tendency to eat your houseplants. Why do they do this? Often to purge themselves, as they do with grass. It is very common for them to vomit right afterwards. They can also devour your plants because their diet lacks fiber, which they need to have a good transit. They may also eat your plants to manage their stress or to relieve their boredom. You will have to start by treating these causes. For example, you can give him catnip.
Another advantage of catnip is that it will prevent your cat from ingesting poisonous plants that you should remove from your home. This is the case with ficus or oleander, for example.
If your cat eats your plants because it is bored, try to spend more time playing with it. If you’re away during the day, you can buy small accessories such as a cat tree that will allow him to jump, hide, etc.
Also, if you catch your cat eating your plants, tell him no in a firm manner, and try again each time he tries. If he doesn’t obey, you’ll have no option but to put your plants away.
Prohibiting your cat from going to the neighbor’s house
Even if you have a good relationship with your neighbors, it can be embarrassing to know that your pet is taking up residence in your absence. It’s important that your cat learns to go out only with you. To do this, you can set up a set time for your cat to go out at a young age, and he will get used to it.
But the first question to ask is: why does my cat go to the neighbor’s? Of course, the little feline is an animal that is curious by nature and likes to explore other territories. Moreover, he can also find his hunting instinct, and have spotted a mouse which he would make his four hours.
But it is also possible that your cat will go to your neighbor’s house to find the affection and attention he doesn’t get at home. Maybe it’s because you’re away at work during the day, or you don’t have time for understandable reasons, but if that’s the case, you’ll have to find a way to give your cat a little more play time.
While cats are notorious for being freewheeling, it is possible to teach them certain habits and hygiene. The earlier you do this, the better these rules will be respected and applied. And the easier family life will be.