1. Home & Garden

Naughty No More, by Marilyn Krieger

Change Unwanted Behaviors through Positive Reinforcement

About.com Rating 4.5 Star Rating

From

Picture of Book Cover:

Book Cover: "Naughty No More"

Photo Credit: © Courtesy of Bow Tie Press

Cats can't be trained-at least, that's what most people assume. Marilyn Krieger's new book challenges the assumption. She describes the most common cat behavior complaints, why cats indulge in "naughty" behavior, and explains how training can resolve these issues using positive training methods including clicker training.

Pros

  • Short, 160 pages
  • Attractive large format
  • Authoritative text
  • Appealing author voice
  • Case studies of cat training successes
  • Breakout boxes of tips or important information
  • Gorgeous photos
  • Resources with additional information

Cons

  • "Cute" subheads obscures information
  • Brevity leaves out some key tips
  • Requires time and practice to see success

Description

  • Published by BowTie/Cat Fancy
  • Written by Marilyn Krieger
  • ISBN # 978-193395892-7

Review – Naughty No More, by Marilyn Krieger

Marilyn Krieger is a certified cat behavior consultant, with hands-on experience for helping owners modify problem kitty behaviors. Her book offers outstanding explanations for understanding normal feline behaviors, and the science behind positive reinforcement and clicker training techniques.

The lavish cat photos and book design with brightly colored call-out boxes of important tips and information make the book coffee-table quality. But it's more than a pretty face. Content offers solid answers to dealing with counter-surfing cats, door dashing, scratching, aggression, vet visits and even trick training. I particularly liked the chapter on cat introductions.

Training takes skill and time, which may frustrate readers looking for quick fixes. I failed to find specific location or number suggestions about scratch objects or potty facilities, which could be helpful. More cat communication information beyond the "Assignment For The Teacher" box would also be nice. Similar "Cute" titles were confusing and didn't accurately describe the content. For example, "Cause For Frustration" points out concerns regarding laser toys.

Despite these minor concerns, I found the tone of the book delightful and written with warmth and humor. The behavior information and training tips are impeccable. Any cat owner can implement these techniques. Marilyn Krieger writes with deep affection for felines and the people who love them. This book offers important information that can save cat lives and relationships, as well as provide great fun for kitties and their humans. Bravo!

Disclosure: A review copy was provided by the publisher. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.

User Reviews

 5 out of 5
Warriors : Into the Wild, by Erin Hunter, Member NachoBeales

In the first of the Warrior series, Into the Wild brings us the story of Rusty, aka Firepaw, a kitty-pet (house cat) who enters into the wild realm of warrior cats. Follow Firepaw as he endeavors to …More

Write a Review

See all 7 reviews

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.