Cats are so funny. They are not of the same disposition as dogs, and they will be the first to let us know that. They were worshiped in ancient civilizations and have never forgotten this fact. They normally do not jump to do our bidding like dogs do, but they can be trained.
Many things come naturally to a cat, like litter training. They naturally dispose of their "business" without any help from humans, thank you very much. A kitten or a cat that is new to the household will need to be shown a few times where the proper place of disposal is, but they will pick it up quite quickly. Normally, the proper place of disposing of refuse is not an issue once your cat has learned where it can be found.
There are ways through positive reinforcement and through speaking in a strong tone that will get their attention. For instance, if you see your cat scratching on your new sofa, speak a loud "No!" and pick him up; take him to a scratching post which you have provided for him. Gently put his paws on the post and let him know this is the appropriate place to scratch. There is usually a reason why cats do what they do. They scratch because their paws hurt and scratching releases the pain and makes them feel better. They are not doing it just to irritate you!
Each time you see your cat responding favorably and correctly to the training you have been giving him, give him a little kitty treat. Cats are very practical.
Never punish your cat by beating or hitting him. Cats are delicate creatures and very sensitive. They will learn to distrust a person who harms them, and will not understand the reason they were beaten or hit. Using a stern loud voice or a spray bottle will let them know that some behaviors will not be tolerated. Kindness and positive reinforcement, not cruelty, is always the appropriate way to train a cat.
A cat like a human sometimes can become ill. Since it cannot talk, there are other indications it may be ill. A change in its behavior is a good indication there is something wrong. Early detection will minimize suffering and costly veterinarian bills.
A cat will not outwardly show it is suffering because its heritage considers it a weakness especially to its predators. It will hide and heal itself. If it isolates itself for over 24 hours, loses interest in its toys or is listless, it may be ill. Purring combined with a bad mood or extreme defensiveness is another indicator.
A wound, lump or breathing difficulty are outward signs of illness or pain. Its temperature should be between 101 to 102.5 degrees F. Anything above 105 or below 100 degrees F can be serious. Increases or decreases in appetite or thirst are other signs of trouble.
Bowel movements should be firm and consistent. Signs of blood worms or rice like objects in the stool need to be analyzed by a veterinarian. Constipation can also indicate a problem.
Increased urination coupled with increased thirst can indicate kidney failure or diabetes. Cloudy or bloody urine or pain when urinating are other reasons for concern.
Vomiting and diarrhea may indicate an upset stomach from something digested. Constant vomiting, blood in the vomit or dry heaves may indicate something else is going on.
Sneezing, coughing and running eyes can be from a cold or the flu. These symptoms will go away in a few days. Puslike discharges, drooling, listlessness and loss of appetite can indicate a more serious condition. Pale gums and tongue and lack of energy and appetite can be caused by anemia.
After determining what it is suffering from, the next challenge is administering medication if needed. Pills should be swallowed whole and not crushed in its food. Before using ear medication, the ear should be cleaned with a cotton ball. Apply eye ointments in small amounts and avoid touching the eye itself with the tube or eye dropper. Give liquid medications in small amounts. Do not skimp or stop giving a medication because a cat looks better. Follow the veterinarian's instruction completely.
All cats need some form of medication or preventative treatment given monthly or annually. This can often times be a daunting experience: cats will sometimes hiss, scratch frantically, then run and hide. When administering medication to your pet kitty, it can often be helpful to have a few different tactics up your sleeve.
Cat medication generally comes in 3 different ways of administration: pills, syrup, or topical treatments, like preventive flea or tick products. Depending on the form of medication, you will want to change your tactic. Cats can be picky, and they are often hard to trick- this requires skill on your part, but it can be done!