New unwanted behaviors

[Marjorie]

Hi Gin.

My first thought is that your kitty might just be looking for more to do. New experiences, new “entertainment.” I have a 3 year old as well and recently she has rejected every single toy so now I’m scrambling for new ways to engage her curiosity and keep her busy.

I’ve read that keeping a toy rotation is a good idea so I’ve started removing some old favorites to bring back later.

Here are some things I’m working on that might be helpful:

• Regular playtime with things my girl can chase, like springs and a long ribbon dragged down the hallway or the stairs
• Crumpled up packing paper with a few treats tossed in that she can hunt
• Birdfeeder hung near a window
• Rearranging furniture that is familiar to her. I put up a card table and tossed a sheet over it to make a fort. She can hide under it and chase things that you drag around the edges.
• New boxes are always interesting

You might also try teaching her tricks like high-five, roll over, sit, fetch etc. If your girl is food motivated this would probably be a fun and easy thing.

I think it really comes down to making her living space as interesting as possible and changing things up so she has a variety to enjoy. And exercise! Try to find things that keep her moving.

And, of course, if it’s possible for her to have a companion kitty, that would be something to consider.

Hope this is helpful. Hope you’ll share what you find that works for you and your little charmer. Good luck.

[Melina]

Hi Gin

Thank you for reaching out. I appreciate that your neighbor contacted you immediately after the incident with the bedroom window screen.

A sudden display of destructive behavior, such as chewing on cables, usually indicates that your cat’s environmental, physical, or emotional needs are not being met. This issue is relatively common among young cats and can arise due to severe boredom or underlying medical problems.

Cats kept indoors without sufficient stimulation may resort to destructive behaviours to pass the time. Additionally, a sudden behavior change can be a sign that your cat is unwell and may require a veterinary check-up. Possible causes could include dental issues, nutritional deficiencies, or anxiety/stress. Certain breeds, particularly oriental ones like Siamese, Burmese, and Birmans, are more prone to compulsive behaviors such as chewing on items.

Try some of the following suggestions this week:

1. Cords: Use plastic cord protectors, wrap cords in electrical tape, and cover all wires with spiral wrap or PVC pipes. You can also spray cables with bitter apple spray, citrus spray, or rub them with a scent they dislike.

2. Chewing Alternatives: Provide safe chew toys and silvervine sticks to redirect chewing behavior.

3. Enrichment: Increase playtime to twice a day. Enhance your environment with tunnels, cardboard boxes, cat grass, and introduce puzzle feeders to keep her foraging.

4. Routine: Cats are routine-oriented, minimize changes to your schedule and visitors visiting the home.

5. Calming Pheromones: Consider plugging in a Feliway diffuser to help maintain a calm environment.

6. Schedule a Vet Visit: Since the behavior change was sudden, it’s important to rule out any medical issues, such as tooth pain or pica.

Let us know if anything helps.

All the best

Melina