Pet anarchy or cat democracy?

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 300, 18 August 1989, Page 7

Pet anarchy or cat democracy?

All training depends on understanding, encouragement and reward - not upon punishment and pain, says the Petcare Information and Advisory Service.

A cat that is constantly threatened by its owner every time is does something wrong is not going to be a loving pet. Unlike dogs, who readily follow the leader of their pack, (which in domestic circumstances is their owner), cats remain unimpressed by attempts at domination. A cat is much more selfish and, although a kitten's subsevience to its mother may rub off a little on you as a mother substitute, a cat's cooperation must be won.

The owner should associate desired behaviour with reward such as food, physical pleasures such as stroking and with appreciative and friendly sounds. When it is necessary to discourage a cat from doing something immediately, such as stealing food, or scratching the sofa, it is best to use a method that appears to 'disassociate' you from the action. If you have children, raid their toy box, as a squirt from a water-pistol, (or plastic

bottle with a nozzle like the ones found on washing-up liquid bottles) proves most effective! By disassociating yourself from the act of discouragement, the lesson learned is general and good behaviour will have these instruments to hand every time. If your cat persists in pestering for food at the table, or jumping up onto it, declare a curfew and shut it out of the room during meal times or when food is being prepared. It is essential that the whole family sticks to the rules when training the cat otherwise it will become confused.