CAT BEHAVIOUR PROBLEMS

Generally Feline (cat) behaviour does not impinge on our Society except where predatory behaviour by the domestic cat has affected the indigenous wildlife population. In some states of Australia and the USA domestic cats are either under curfew or forced into an environment of indoor living.

Feline (cat) society does not fit into our interpretation of a Social System as cats are classically views as solitary creatures. Historically, cats were employed by Humans as rodent killers and lived in association with Humans rather than as a domestic pet. Under British Law the feline is not viewed as anything other than vermin and is therefore not protected whereas dogs are described as property.

Inappropriate cat behaviour is not necessary a behaviour problem but should be viewed as how cats cannot adapt to the Human social system  within the domestic setting (home). Cats are restricted by their evolutionary behaviour and this is seen by the huge variety of  communication and social problems as well a a variety of attachment problems. Aggression and toileting problems are the most commonly reported behaviour problems, offensive behaviour towards the owner is also shown as predatory ‘play’ aggression, as well as attacking the owner when being stroked.  Spraying, scratching and middening (poohing) are signs of social problems between the cats in a multi cat household and/or neighbouring cats.