Library
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Fearful behavior in cats may develop for many reasons. Hereditary and environmental factors contribute to behavioral development. Early socialization of kittens is very important for normal development. Cats and kittens that display fearful behavior should be treated as soon as possible for the most successful outcome.
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House soiling in cats, sometimes called feline inappropriate elimination, has many potential causes. The behavior may relate to a physical illness, a need to communicate, or a need to find a suitable toileting spot. The prognosis for resolution is very good, once the cause has been determined.
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House soiling or feline inappropriate elimination is not uncommon. Urine and/or stool may be deposited outside of the litter box. The motivation for the behavior may be a need to eliminate (toileting) or a desire to communicate (marking). Medical conditions may predispose cats to exhibit house soiling and a veterinary examination is always needed.
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Urine marking is a form of communication for cats and can be used to establish territory and communicate social and sexual status. House cats may mark when there is social conflict in the home, or when they experience anxiety or frustration. Medical conditions, particularly those associated with pain, can trigger marking. It is important to learn the motivation for marking in order to find an effective treatment plan.
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Many cats are active through the night. Often, they have slept all day and are not tired at night. Enrichment that includes social play and interactive toys can help solve the problem. A medical and behavioral workup should be done if your cat has only recently begun to be active at night, as there may be an underlying illness.
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Some cats that appear to be perfectly comfortable resting in a lap can suddenly turn around, bite, and run away. There are ways to reduce the likelihood that your cat will bite you. Treatment will depend on the specific reason for the behavior.
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Scratching is normal feline behavior. Cats use their claws to mark territory, climb to safety, hunt prey, and stretch their bodies. However, this behavior may be problematic inside the house. This handout outlines behavioral approaches to help with scratching. If you notice changes in your cat's pattern of scratching, check with your veterinarian.
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Cats vocalize to communicate. Vocalizing can be problematic when it interferes with people's sleep. Often, the behavior develops due to unintentional reinforcement, but could also reflect underlying illness, particularly if it is a new behavior. Both a medical exam and a behavioral work-up are needed.
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The birth of a baby or the adoption of a new child can be associated with both excitement and stress. It is important to prepare your pet for the new addition. Before the baby arrives, introduce novel sounds and scents, and be sure your pet has access to safe resting spaces. Socialize your young pet to children from the start. Children should be directly supervised by an adult when they interact with pets.
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Behavior Counseling: Diagnosing a Behavior Problem - Is It Medical or Behavioral?
Los problemas de comportamiento pueden deberse a causas médicas, psicológicas o a una combinación de ambas. Una historia clínica minuciosa, un examen físico completo y una serie de pruebas diagnósticas apropiadas determinarán si hay alguna enfermedad que influya en el problema.