Is A Tiger Stalking
Your Living Room?
by Susan Nelson
Hopkins
 Let's face it, even young
kittens succumb to the "tiger syndrome"... and thoroughly enjoy
themselves! But, as a kitten matures, so does that "tiger".
Depending on the cat's breed
as well as its individual nature, stalking could become a behavior
problem. If recognized early, your little "tiger" impersonator can be
refocused to playful pursuits.
Remember that stalking is
instinctive to your cat, and should be closely monitored as he
matures.
Outdoor cats...
If your cat is allowed
outdoors, this instinct will be satisfied as he wanders through the
yard. He'll pursue grasshoppers and butterflies with as much
intensity as he does birds.
You need to intervene if the
activity becomes destructive. If your outdoor cat starts digging in
the garden or using it as his kitty box, a liberal dose of
citrus
spray or a handful of citrus rinds tossed around the garden will
usually deter them. Keep it up until they find a more acceptable
spot.
By the way, you need to give
them a clue as to what is acceptable to you... scoop up their waste
and place it where you want them to go. They'll get the message
quickly.
Your outdoor cat may become
too adept at stalking birds. If you have bird feeders, then this is
definitely a problem. One way to warn the birds is to attach a bell
to your cat's collar. It won't stop him, but the birds will soon
identify the sound of the bell and be warned.
Indoor cats...
An indoor cat can stalk with
equal relish, only his prey is the occasional creepy-crawly, dust
balls, shafts of light, pillow tassels, pencils...
And if he's really bored, he
will even stalk you! He'll pounce on your ankles and nip you. This
can be dangerous... you or a guest can trip and fall. If allowed to
continue, your cat will become frustrated and aggressive.
(For specific
tips on this "pouncing" behavior, see
Can
You Live Peacefully with Your Cat?)
The earlier this behavior is
modified the easier it is on your feline friend... and on you!
Purchase
toys for him to stalk. This focuses his "tiger-ness" on the
toy instead of you or your furnishings. Chose toys that he can play
with on his own, and some that involve you as well. This helps bond
the two of you as equals rather than "tiger and prey".
A word of caution... toys
should be large enough to prevent choking.
Select toys that are
lightweight so your cat or kitten can move them around or carry them
in its mouth. A bouncy toy is really fun for them and offers great
exercise. Find a toy that hangs from doorknob, and move it each day.
Hide toys in the laundry basket or under a chair.
Make it fun for them, and
you'll soon have that "tiger" by the tail!
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