Articles
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Aggression between household cats can often be improved with patience, structure, and training. This article explains how to introduce or reintroduce cats, reduce stress during interactions, and create a more harmonious home environment. It also reviews realistic expectations for success and long-term management strategies when conflicts persist.
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The leading causes of aggressive behavior among household cats are territorial aggression, fear-based aggression, and incompatible personalities. There may be more than one type of aggression occurring simultaneously. This handout explains the common forms of inter-cat aggression and how they may be prevented.
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Aggression may be defined as behavior meant to threaten or harm. However, it is important to recognize that aggressive behavior serves a normal communication function. This handout outlines why a pet may behave aggressively, types of aggression, how to read a pet's body language, and what you should do if you notice this behavior in your pet.
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There are many non-pharmaceutical products designed to improve a pet's behavior. There is little oversight for many of these products, and the label “natural” does not guarantee a product is safe to use in dogs and cats. Ask your veterinarian before using any over-the-counter product for your pet.
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Many behaviors are normal but problematic for a particular person or household. Some behaviors are not normal and may be unsafe for the pet or for others. The first step is to ask your veterinarian to examine your pet for signs of physical illness. Then, a behavior consultation can be scheduled to assess the behavior and design a treatment strategy.
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Several drugs are now used to help treat pet behavior problems. To determine whether drug therapy should be considered, it is essential to determine the cause of the behavior. Many dogs and cats can also benefit from medication that helps them learn more efficiently. It is important to have a behavioral and physical health assessment before giving medication.
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It is not unusual for behavioral problems to develop in older pets. Physical changes can exacerbate prior low-level behavioral conditions and illnesses. Age-related cognitive decline can directly contribute to new behavioral concerns. This handout discusses what to look for and what to discuss with your veterinarian.
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Cats can exhibit many behaviors that are considered normal but are nevertheless undesirable. Several products are available to help with behavior management in cats. This handout outlines some helpful suggestions for products that may help.
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Foraging toys are designed to provide mental and physical exercise and enjoyment by simulating hunting and seeking for food. Both dogs and cats are natural hunters and scavengers. They benefit from exercising this part of their brain on a regular basis. Providing enrichment in the form of foraging toys can decrease boredom, improve enjoyment, and encourage dogs and cats to engage in species-specific behaviors in a desirable way.
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Foraging toys are great for dogs and cats. They can be filled with treats or with the pet's regular food as an alternative to feeding from a dish. They offer mental and physical exercise while also providing benefits from sensory stimulation as they search for their meals. Dogs in particular benefit from the opportunity to solve puzzles in order to access food.