You can tell a lot about your cat's mood by watching their body language. If you pay attention you will notice that cats communicate with their bodies all the time. Some cats will make obvious facial expressions, especially a certain narrow-eyed "I'm not impressed" look when they get scolded. Curled-back ears show an anxious and threatened cat. One ear turned sideways is the impish look of a cat who knows they're being bad and likes it. Tail position can also reveal kitty's mood. A kitty who is happy will stick their tail straight up in the air like kittens do when their mom is around, or they will lazily swish it back and forth. An indecisive kitty will hold their tail in a halfway position. A poofed out tail is a very mad cat, usually in attack mode. A kitty who holds their tail closely curled up to their body is usually frightened and untrusting; this often seen in abused cats. The belly is also an indicator of mood; kitties are very sensitive about their tummies because it is their vulnerable spot. If kitty rolls over and exposes her belly she is saying that she trusts you completely.

Litter box

Probably the most frustrating of all cat behavior is toilet training problems. The majority of cats need only a brief introduction to the litter box, as it is an instinctive behavior. However, there are many possible reasons why your cat may have "accidents" in the house. The first thing to rule out is health problems. A cat who has pain upon urination may avoid the litter box because they associate it with a painful experience. If nothing is is physically wrong it could be a number of other factors. Cats can be picky about cat litter. They may not like certain textures or scents, or very dusty cat litters. Cats prefer to stick to what they like, they may not take kindly to a new brand. Another big factor is other cats. Cats who are not spayed or neutered are more likely to engage in territorial behavior. They may fight over the box or not allow another cat to get in. Even spayed/neutered cats have certain hierarchies within the home, and they may not enjoy sharing. You should have one litter box per cat, plus one extra. Additional suggestions: use a cleaner that uses enzymes to clean up "accidents," the enzymes remove organic matter and will get rid of the scent that has been left, discouraging kitty to use that same spot again. Many cats hate the feeling of walking on tin foil, and placing it on the floor or around plants could help. Kitty's love to go in plants because it is their natural behavior to go in the dirt and then cover it up. Bitter Lime and Bitter Apple sprays are helpful in keeping kitty out of the plants. Another great deterrent is Sticky Paws, a sticky paper cats hate and will avoid stepping on. There are many cat repellant type sprays on the market, but personal experience has taught me that they don't work. If problems persist you may need to consult a behavior specialist. Try not to get discouraged though, the majority of litter box problems have a solution and your vet can help you determine what is best.

Scratching

It is natural and instinctive for cats to scratch. There is no sense trying to get them to stop, it's important to concentrate on providing appropriate areas to scratch. Sisal posts and cardboard scratches are very effective and very desirable for scratching. Many scratching posts are treated with catnip to attract kitty, or a catnip spray can be used. Did you ever give your kitty a scrap of carpet to scratch on? Try flipping it over - the rough side is even better for sinking their nails into. Remember, it is very possible to train your kitty which area is appropriate. A quick spritz from a water bottle will make them think twice about scratching your couch. After deterring them in this way show them to the scratching post so they know where they're supposed to scratch. When buying furniture always consider the weave of the fabric. A big, open weave is appealing to kitty claws, and should be avoided. Stick with smoother fabrics, like a faux suede, that are difficult to sink claws into. Please remember there are many products that can help, like Soft Paws, that go over kitty's nails, or couch protectors, even pressure sensitive alarms that beep when kitty gets on the couch. Declawing is inhumane and should never be considered an option. For reasons not to declaw, click here.

Territory

A cat's territory is very important to them. Does your kitty rub his face on you, the couch, the corner of the wall, his bed, the dog, etc? This is territorial behavior, and the cat marks territory by leaving behind its scent through facial glands. Marking is displayed in unneutered males by spraying. This is a nasty problem and can be prevented by neutering. Spaying/neutering also reduces aggressive behavior. A multi-cat household usually has a sort of hierarchy. Cats have their favorite spots, and may compete at trying to find the highest one. In a multi-cat household it is important to provide at least one litter box per cat plus one. This may be a pain but it has shown to be a very effective solution to litter box troubles. Also provide many food and water dishes. Cats will sometimes refuse to allow another cat access to their food and litter. If you are considering adding another cat to your household, keep in mind that it will be a long process of careful socialization. The animals should initially be kept in separate rooms, allowed to sniff each other under the door. After a week or two switch rooms so the cats become familiar with one another's smells. After another week or so let the new cat out with the others for short, supervised periods. There will be sniffing, probably growling, and maybe some hissing. Be patient, it is very rare for two adult cats to become instant friends. The growling is perfectly normal and should be expected. If their is any biting, scratching, or fur flying going on separate them right away and try again at a later date. It takes a lot of patience, especially when you are eager for your new pet to be part of the household. However, it will pay off in the end. There is an occasional cat that will hold a grudge for months and years, terrorizing the newcomer and being a bully. Don't be tempted to get rid of the problem kitty, rather talk to your vet about behavior training. There is also a helpful product called Comfort Zone. It is a diffuser that you plug in and it releases simulated cat facial pheromones into the air, causing a calming effect. It can also help to eliminate other problem behaviors such as inappropriate scratching and urine marking.

Keep your Cat Healthy

While you're worried about your cat's behavior perhaps you should consider your options for your pet's health. It's good to know about your cat's history, but also be sure to consider your cat's future! After all, you want to make sure you're stays healthy and learn about pet insurance! Once you know all of your options buy pet insurance today!