Q: Can you  train cats?

A: Yes, cat training is not as tough as most cat lovers predict it is. Cats most likely are not as attentive to training as Champ or Rover are but they can be trained. Treats offered as positive reinforcement is definitely the most certain means to successful cat training.

Q: Why and how do kitties purr?

A: Adult cats purr because they are happy and contented and to play on the emotions of humans — Who can ignore a purring cat? Kittens purr in response to their mother cat’s purr to assist in bonding them. It is usually thought that the purring is a vibration of the vocal chords as air is pushed though it. It is also believed that purring is a voluntary action.

Q: What is the reason some people are allergic to cats?

A: Cat allergies are caused by the proteins in cat dander generated from the cat’s saliva. The dander dries and becomes airborne. People with cat allergies demonstrate a reaction because their immune system is trying to fight the enemy protein and creates histamines.

Q: How do you stop naughty cat behavior such as biting?

A: The best way to break naughty cat behavior is the same way the mother cat controls an errant kitten. This is by scuffing the cat. You firmly but gently grasp the cat by the scruff of the neck and hold it down until it calms down. You need to do this at the time of the naughty behavior.

Q: How do you litter train a cat?

A: You really shouldn’t be required to do any training for a cat to use a litter pan, but if your previously litter trained cat has started to avoid the litter box you need to figure out why. The cat may have a urinary tract infection in which case you need to visit the vet. If it is just too dirty you need to keep it cleaner. If you have started using litter you may have to change back or sprinkle a little catnip in the litter to attract the cat to the new litter.

Q: How do you keep cats off tables?

A: This is the most asked about cat behavior issues and can be a difficult one. Cats like high perches and they may find food or food odors on counters and tables. It is best to keep the counters clean and to use something like foil or double sided tape to keep cats off the counters.