My Pet World: Cat claws at TV, but may just be a fan of Justin Bieber
As you seek holiday gift items, why not consider two e-books that I authored? One is called "Good Dog! Practical Answers to Behavior Questions" (Chicago Tribune, 2011; $6.99) with contributions from dog trainer Victoria Stilwell or "Good Cat! Practical Answers to Behavior Questions" (Chicago Tribune, 2011; $.3.99) with contributions from certified cat behavior consultant Pam Johnson-Bennett. Actress Betty White and Dr. Sheldon Rubin also participated in each book.
Here are some questions and answers from "Good Cat!":
Q: Whenever certain people are on TV, our cat, Lilly, runs to the screen and begins to scratch. This always happens when she hears Justin Bieber. She goes crazy! Lilly's claws have long been removed, so there's no damage to the TV. Why does she respond this way? -- S.U., Pasadena, CA
A: Cats often express their excitement with a good scratch. Even cats without claws will go through scratching motions. I can tell you that much. I can't explain why your cat has 'Bieber fever.' Apparently, Lilly is a fan.
Q: My cat is about 16 months old and he's very skittish, as I understand his siblings were also. His buddy, an 18-year old Siamese, recently died, and he seems sad. I can't get near him; he runs if I come too close. Yet, he sits next to me on the couch as I watch TV. He also enjoys when I brush him. How can I make him feel more comfortable? -- K.G., Las Vegas, NV
A: Cats mourn, too, and your kitty may feel more withdrawn than usual since the death of his buddy. Be patient. However, I am concerned that something medically could be going on, even in a young cat. Anytime there's a change in behavior, a medical explanation should be considered.
In general, the rule should be, let the approach you. When he does, offer a treat and talk softly and sweetly.
When you do approach him, try to get down on his level or bend over and then extend your middle finger. If he responds by touching your outstretched finger with his nose, he's just shook your hand -- cat style.
Interactive play may work as a kind of antidote to get him out of his shell. And with some catnip, he may shed inhibitions. Feliway, a copy of a calming pheromone, may tone down anxiety.
Meanwhile, your cat is a perfect candidate for clicker training. By offering treats when you click a clicker (available wherever pet supplies are sold), your cat will develop a positive association with the sound. Begin to click and offer a treat when you catch the cat acting affectionately. Over time, you may shape a more affectionate cat.
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