Have you noticed your cat acting particularly grumpy lately? Does kitty's body language show he is peeved about something? Take a look around; you may find yourself responsible for your cat's bad attitude. For example, does his litter box smell like a construction area portable toilet? Find out more cats' typical pet peeves and make friends with your cat again.
Share your own cat's pet peeves. What are the things you do that s/he hates the most? Share them in the attached form Note:This form is not for asking questions or replying to another reader. Think of it as your own mini-article on the About.com Cat site.
Stinky Litter Box
This step-by-step tutorial will demonstrate conscientious litter box maintenance.
Nasty-Tasting Medicine
A sick cat really needs his medication to be well again, or in the case of certain chronic diseases, to maintain a stable condition. Make it easier for both of you and try one or more of these different methods of administering oral medications.
Spoiled Food
Kittens, who should be given smaller meals more frequently, probably will finish their meal well before 15 minutes. It's better to give them a tablespoon or two every three hours than to take a chance on spoiled food.
Be a hero instead of a chump, by keeping your cat's food fresh.
Too-Aggressive Petting
Some cats are overly sensitive to tactile stimuli. Feline hyperesthesia is often associated with this. Your cat may be on your lap, sharing a tender moment as you are petting her, but after awhile may suddenly bite or scratch you and jump down.If you will watch your cat's body language, she will give you plenty of clues beforehand to slow down or stop the petting entirely. Her ears may slant back, her tail will twitch, then wave wildly, and she may even growl at you. By learning your cat's likes and dislikes with petting, you can go a long way to making her happier on your lap.
Competition From Other Cats
- Hierarchy Disputes: The cats may find their own resolution and one cat will defer to the other, however you may have to separate them temporarily.
- Jealousy of Human's Attention to Another Cat: Will be covered in the next item.
- Outside Intruder: Fully covered in this FAQ.
Loud Noise and Commotion
Holiday times are often extremely stressful for cats, especially those we've come to associate with fireworks, such as the 4th of July and New Year's Eve. Loud parties at any time of the year are also stressful for most cats, especially the older ones.Thunderstorms are also a source of fear and stress for many cats. I have two cats who startle and run upstairs to their bedroom sanctuary whenever they hear a doorbell ring, even on a television commercial.
The linked article will offer many tips for helping your cats relax, which are applicable to all these situations. For especially "nervous" cats, it is also often helpful to give them one or another holistic remedy, such as Bach's Rescue Remedy. Here are some other suggestions.
Being Ignored by Her Human
Unlike some people believe, cats are not solitary animals, but they need and enjoy companionship. Witness how they will knead your legs when sitting with you, or even lick your hand.






