Cat behaviour: quick tip cards

Give your cat hideouts: boxes, high shelves, a covered bed.Why?Scared or stressed cats need somewhere to retreat. High spots let them watch while feeling safe.Source: [1][2]

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Spread bowls, trays and beds around separate spots.Why?Everything in one place breeds competition and stress, especially with several cats.Source: [1][2]

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Play hunting games daily, in a few short bursts.Why?Cats need the physical and mental work of the hunt. Without play they get bored, destructive and overweight.Source: [1][7]

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Let your cat come to you and decide when to stop.Why?Gentle, regular, predictable contact helps your cat trust you.Source: [1][2]

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Keep air fresheners and perfume away from your cat’s spots.Why?Cats rely on smell to feel safe and to recognise their territory.Source: [1][2]

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Swishing tail, rippling skin, ears back: your cat is uncomfortable.Why?Stop stroking and let it go before it scratches or bites.Source: [6]

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Quick quiz!Your cat swishes its tail while you stroke it. You should…

Keep stroking so it gets used to itStop and let it go

Right! Respect the signal and your cat will trust you more.

Risky! A swishing tail means discomfort, so stop.

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Growling or biting when touched usually means fear or pain.Why?It isn’t naughtiness. Arthritis or other illness can make a cat defensive, so get a vet check.Source: [4]

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Cats must scratch, so give them the right place.Why?Scratching keeps claws healthy, stretches muscles and marks territory. You can’t stop it, only redirect it.Source: [3]

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Tall, sturdy post, right next to the scratched spot.Why?Cats abandon wobbly posts. Put one near the bed too, as cats scratch after waking, and reward use.Source: [3]

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Never hit, shout at or spray your cat.Why?Punishment makes cats fearful and problems worse. Cats don’t act out of revenge.Source: [3][5]

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Quick quiz!Your cat scratches the sofa. Best move?

Spray it with waterPut a tall, sturdy post right next to the sofaBan it from the living room

Great! Redirect, don’t punish.

Not great: punishment just scares cats. Put a post right beside it.

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Sudden behaviour change? Vet check first.Why?Illness and pain are common causes. If problems persist, your vet can refer you to a cat behaviour specialist.Source: [4][5]

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