Avoiding cat-astrophes

Some statistics suggest that in the United States today, cats have overtaken dogs in popularity.
If you share your heart and home with one or more felines, you may benefit from this discussion regarding common cat issues.

Issue No. 1: The litter box
This can be an extremely stressful problem that demands immediate action. If you have a cat who is using the litter box inappropriately, take him to your veterinarian immediately. Your cat may have a serious medical problem, such as a urinary tract infection or blockage which can be life threatening. Once the medical problem is treated, the litter box problems should be rectified.
If your vet has ruled out a medical cause and your cat continues to use the litter box inappropriately, it is now time for you to put on your detective hat. Many litter box problems are caused by the following:

-- The litter box is too close to the cat’s food and water bowls
-- The litter box is in a noisy, high-traffic area
-- The litter box is dirty
-- You changed to a new brand or type of litter too quickly
-- You don’t have enough litter boxes.

Cats are fastidious creatures. They do not want to toilet near their food, and they demand a clean litter box. Cats also crave privacy. Also, like humans, cats dislike change; if you are determined to start using a new brand or type of litter, you will need to introduce it slowly by mixing a bit of the new with the old over a period of several weeks.
The general rule of thumb is that you should have a litter box for each feline family member, plus one. For example if you have two cats, you should have a minimum of three litter boxes. For some reason, cats with long hair seem to require more litter boxes in order to stay happy. If you have just one long-haired feline friend, you may find that adding additional litter boxes will eliminate litter box
problems.
To aid in solving litter box problems, you will need to use special enzymatic cleaning products to remove all traces of urine or feces from your floors, carpets and furniture. Normal household cleaners will not remove every bit, and your cat may return to the inappropriate spots and eliminate again. Enzymatic cleaners are available at pet supply stores.

Issue No. 2: Spraying
This issue is usually a problem with unneutered males. A cat sprays to mark his territory and to tell other cats to “stay away.” Typically, male cats that are neutered by the age of 6 months will not spray; hence, have your male cat neutered as soon as possible. Not only will it help prevent spraying, this surgery will help make your pet healthier by decreasing the likelihood of certain
cancers.
If you have a neutered cat who is spraying in your home, you may have a cat that is suffering from severe stress. In this case, a product called Feliway may help. Feliway is a synthetic feline, facial pheromone that helps calm stressed cats.

Issue No. 3: Nighttime Antics
Cats thrive on play and social interaction with their human companions. Unfortunately, cats — especially young ones — always want to play when you are trying to sleep. To prevent disruption of a good night’s rest, make playing with your cat a before-bedtime routine. Purchase or make several toys that really capture your cat’s attention and give him a 15- or 20-minute workout right before lights-out. Also, after your cat has cooled off a bit afterward, offer him a couple of treats or pieces of kibble. A good romp and a full belly are often enough to help your cat sleep through the night.

Resources
“Think Like a Cat” and “Twisted Whiskers,” both by Pam Johnson-Bennett. These books are for the experienced cat guardian as well as the newcomer to the world of cats.