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How to Fix Behavioural Problems in Kittens
Most kittens are sweet and cuddly but as they go through their developmental phase, you might notice a change. Their hormones and energy levels change, and it might seem like overnight your sweet kitten has turned into a little hyperactive and opinionated cat! If your kitten is not given appropriate metal or physical outlets during this time, they will start inventing their own fun and chances are, you won’t like it! Undesirable behaviours should be addressed while your kitten is still young, or it will be much harder to change when they are adult cats.
What Are Some Common Kitten Behavioural Problems and How Should You Address Them?
Kitten Play Aggression
As your kitten develops, their play style can turn quite rough. They may be testing their boundaries or simply getting too excited during play and bite or scratch you. While your kitten may grow out of it, it’s best not to assume that they will. Afterall, an adult cat biting and scratching you is going to hurt a lot more than a kitten!
When your kitten does try to bite or scratch you during play, stop the session immediately and give them some time and space to calm down. Once they are calm, you can reward them and resume the play session. Try to ensure your kitten is also getting enough toys and play sessions throughout the day. Avoid using your hands and fingers to play and taunt your kitten as that just sends mixed messages.
Destructive Behaviours
Scratching is normal behaviour for cats. So, understand that it’s not something you can stop, but you can give them appropriate outlets. By providing them with acceptable scratching surfaces and posts to climb, they are less likely to damage your furniture or other household items.
Consider trying a variety of scratching materials such as, fabric and corrugated cardboard, until you find out which type your kitten prefers. Have these available in areas of the house your kitten has access to. At the same time, limit the ability for your cat to scratch your furniture by preventing your access while you are not able to supervise.
Vocalisation
As your kitten develops, their play style can turn quite rough. They may be testing their boundaries or simply getting too excited during play and bite or scratch you. While your kitten may grow out of it, it’s best not to assume that they will. Afterall, an adult cat biting and scratching you is going to hurt a lot more than a kitten!
When your kitten does try to bite or scratch you during play, stop the session immediately and give them some time and space to calm down. Once they are calm, you can reward them and resume the play session. Try to ensure your kitten is also getting enough toys and play sessions throughout the day. Avoid using your hands and fingers to play and taunt your kitten as that just sends mixed messages.
Jumping on Tables and Counters
The reason cats love jumping up on counters and tables is because they usually have a good time up there! Often food scraps are left on top of counter tops and while they are up there, your cat is also enjoying a better view of the environment.
It may be obvious, but the first thing to do is to ensure you don’t leave any food scraps for them to find. Then provide other appropriate options such as a cat tower for them to climb and observe from. You can even leave some treats up there for them to discover.
If you catch them on the counter or tabletop, gently but firmly remove your kitten and place them into the ground. If over time, they persist with the behaviour, consider covering the area with aluminium foil or an uncomfortable texture to deter them.
It’s completely normal for even the sweetest kitten to go through a behavioural change as they grow and develop. Just remember to be patient and proactive during this time and in no time, your kitten will grow into a well behaved adult cat.
