Cat Behavior

Cat Behavior - Scratching

Hi, I'm Dr. Chobot and I'm here to talk with you today about the most common cat behavior problems.

Let’s start with scratching - a totally natural behavior for cats, but one that can wreak havoc on your favorite furniture if not redirected. The key is to teach them where it’s okay to scratch.

First, provide plenty of appropriate scratching surfaces. Many cats love cardboard scratchers, but preferences vary - some like sisal, carpet, or wood. It’s a good idea to offer a variety of textures and both vertical and horizontal options, since some cats like to stretch up while others prefer to scratch flat.

Placement matters too. Put scratchers in areas your cat already likes to hang out or near the spots they’ve been targeting.

To make off-limits areas less appealing, try double-sided tape or furniture-safe deterrents you can find online. These make the surface less satisfying to scratch.

If you catch your cat scratching something they shouldn’t, avoid scolding. Instead, redirect them to the right spot using treats, praise, or even a little play. I’ve even scratched the post myself to get their attention - curiosity kicks in, and they often follow suit!

You can also sprinkle or rub catnip on the scratchers a couple of times a week to keep them enticing.

Cat Behavior - Enrichment

Let’s talk about enrichment for cats - and why it’s not just fun, but essential. More and more, we’re starting to treat our indoor cats like the intelligent, active animals they are—much like how zoos care for their animals. After all, our cats live in enclosed environments, and without enough stimulation, they can become bored, stressed, or even overweight.

In the wild, a typical cat might hunt and catch eight to ten small prey items a day. That’s a lot of activity! So how do we recreate that natural behavior indoors?

One of my favorite tools is the Doc & Phoebe’s Indoor Hunting Feeder - adorable little blue mice that you fill with kibble and hide around the house. Your cat gets to “hunt” them down, bat them around, and work to get the food out. It’s a fantastic way to engage their natural instincts and provide both mental and physical stimulation. These feeders have even been shown to reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being.

Of course, there are plenty of other enrichment options too - like treat-dispensing balls, puzzle feeders, and regular interactive play sessions. Try to schedule playtime around dawn and dusk, when cats are naturally more active. Making this a daily routine gives them something to look forward to and helps burn off that extra energy in a healthy way.

Cat Behavior - Litter Box Management

Let’s talk about litter box management for cats - a topic that’s always interesting because, well, cats definitely have opinions!

Most cats prefer a larger litter box, ideally about twice the length of their body. Unfortunately, many commercial boxes are too small, so you may need to look for oversized options or even repurpose storage containers to give your cat the space they need to feel comfortable.

Cleanliness is key. Just like us, cats prefer a clean bathroom. Scooping once or twice a day is ideal, and giving the box a full clean once a week helps keep things fresh. If you’re looking for a little help, self-cleaning litter boxes (like litter robots) can be a great option - specially for cats who are picky about cleanliness.

When it comes to litter, unscented, clumping varieties are usually best. Cats have incredibly sensitive noses, and strong perfumes or chemical smells can be off-putting. Stick with something simple and gentle on their senses.

Location matters too. Place litter boxes in quiet, low-traffic areas where your cat can have some privacy. Avoid loud appliances or busy hallways.

And here’s a golden rule: one litter box per cat, plus one extra. Spread them out across your home - especially if you have multiple floors - so every cat has easy access. If you have cats who don’t always get along, make sure each one has a box in their own space to avoid territorial tension.

The bottom line? More boxes, more comfort, less stress. Your cats will thank you - with fewer accidents and happier tails.

Cat Behavior - Counter Surfing

Let’s talk about counter surfing in cats - a super common behavior issue I hear about all the time. In fact, we dealt with it ourselves with our cat, Beans!

The first step is management: make sure there’s nothing tempting on the counter. Even if your cat finds food just once in a hundred tries, that one success reinforces the behavior and keeps them coming back. So, keep counters clear of food or anything that smells interesting.

Next, give them a better option. Cats love high places where they can observe their “kingdom,” so place a cat tower or perch near the kitchen. That way, they can still be close to you while you cook. Reward them with treats, attention, or play when they choose the perch instead of the counter.

You can also make the counter less appealing. Try double-sided tape - it creates a sticky surface that most cats dislike. For more persistent climbers, motion-activated air canisters can be a helpful deterrent. They release a harmless puff of air when triggered, which startles the cat without causing harm.

I recommend these over spray bottles, since we don’t want your cat to associate you with punishment. Plus, automated deterrents work even when you’re not home, making them more consistent and effective

Getting your Cat Comfortable in a Carrier

Let’s talk about carrier training for cats - a topic that can truly improve life with your cat.

Many cats dislike the carrier, and I’ve had my own struggles with this at home - our cat Monte was no fan at first! But with time and patience, we turned it around, and now he hops in with ease.

The first step is choosing the right carrier. Soft-sided ones can be easier for some cats, but hard plastic airline-style carriers work well too. Just make sure it’s roomy enough for your cat to turn around comfortably. Add a towel or soft bedding to make it cozy.

Leave the carrier out in your home so it becomes part of the everyday environment - not just a signal that a vet visit is coming. Toss treats inside, play with toys around it, and encourage your cat to explore it on their own terms. For kittens, this kind of early exposure is especially helpful.

If your cat is nervous, try feeding meals near the carrier, then gradually move the bowl closer, and eventually inside. It may take a few weeks, but it’s worth the investment.

You can also use Feliway spray, a synthetic version of the calming pheromones cats release when they rub their faces on things. Spray it inside the carrier about an hour before travel to help reduce stress.

Once your cat is comfortable with the carrier, practice short trips-around the house, to the car, or even a quick drive. Pair these with treats, praise, and play to build positive associations.

Most importantly, go at your cat’s pace. If they seem stressed, slow down. The goal is to make the carrier feel safe and familiar - not scary.