As with humans, cats have preferences and react to positive and negative experiences. Although they are very tolerant of the mistakes that humans make, certain behaviors that family members do can cause stress and damage the link. I have written many articles about strengthening the link and how to foster a good relationship with cats, but it is also essential to be aware of the things that people make cats hate. There are 10 common behaviors that could irritate their own cat.

1) Abrupt change. Cats are definitely habit creatures, and sudden changes in their environment or daily life can be distressing. This goes from the introduction of a new pet, moving to a new home, changing in the food or garbage brand, or reorganizing furniture. Even the events that people see as very minor can be stressful for unsuspecting cats. Try to incorporate changes gradually to give cats to make a more comfortable adjustment.

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2) Dirty sand box. The maintenance of the sand box is not the favorite task of cats, but cats are meticulous with their sandboxes and a dirty can cause severe stress and can even become health problems. Nobody wants to use a toilet without fondness. The sand box must be collected at least twice a day and completely washed. Do not use scented coverings to avoid your important work of keeping the box clean and welcoming for cats.

3) Touch the belly. Although there are certainly some cats that tolerate this and can even enjoy it when it caresses their exposed and vulnerable belly, but most cats hate it. When cats stretch and expose their belly, it is a sign of trust and relaxation. Unless he knows with certainty that the cat enjoys being touched there, respect Kitty’s limits.

Photo: Pam Johnson-Bennett

4) Strong noises. Cats have a very sensitive audition and strong noises can be surprising and even frankly scary. Things such as vacuum cleaners and other appliances, high music, strong television, people shouting and construction noises can add stress. Make sure there are quiet places in your home where cats can retire when things get too loud. Never force cats to stay in the room with you if the noise level is high. Do not locate resources (food station, sandbox, scratch post, rest areas) in rooms that are noisy. Take into account the volume of electronics and activities in your home to avoid causing auditory discomfort. If you are concerned about the noise level in your home, download a decibel meter to your smartphone so you can make a quick verification.

5) Forced interaction. Cats are social animals, but they, as with humans, need personal space and the choice to interact or not. Forcing cats to interact can lead them to learn to avoid it in the future. Allow cats to choose whether to participate and for how long. This is especially critical when there are home visitors who may want to meet or caress any cat at home. Always let cats establish the rhythm.

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6) Uncreated hug and support. While many cats enjoy being retained, others feel more comfortable with their legs firmly on the ground. For those who like to be retained, they often have specific preferences on how they are placed in their arms. Respect individual limits because even cats that enjoy closeness do not appreciate when forced. Remember, hugging is not a natural behavior in the world of animals, so some can find it uncomfortable or unwanted. Be especially aware of how cats are handled by children who can squeeze too much and cannot accurately read the body language that indicates that a cat is not enjoying interaction.

With cats that do not enjoy being hugged, there are numerous ways to show affection in a way they prefer. Train cats so that they feel more at ease for the one maintained through gradual and positive methods. This training is useful when it comes to placing cats in a carrier to travel or relocate them for specific reasons. However, the key to success is in the approach: never force the problem. Grant in positivity, kindness and reward the positive steps that cats take, however small.

7) Punishment. In training, there is absolutely any place for punishment. The behaviors, even those who do not like them, serve for cats. Unwanted behaviors are not shown for dismissal or deliberately for bad behavior. The punishment does not teach cats the correct behavior, but only teaches them to be anxious, defensive or scared. Human and adequate training implies identifying the underlying cause of behavior so that it can provide a better alternative. In other words, discover what is needed so that you can supply it in a way that is acceptable to both. Reward cats for behavior sought with sweets, praise, a toy or whatever that specific cat sees as positive.

8) Ignore the signs of body language. Cats are teachers in communication, and speak a lot through body language. Ignore the visual signals that indicate whether or not to interaction, can lead to stress, reluctance to be close to you in the future or even aggression. Learn to read feline body language signs and adjust your interactions accordingly. When it respects the signs of body language, it contributes greatly to strengthening the link it shares.

9) strong aromas. Cats have an acute sense of smell, and strong aromas, such as air fresheners, cleaning products, very scented sand, sand additives or perfumes, can be overwhelming. Take into account the products you use in areas where cats will be. When it comes to scented sand additives, there is no reason to use them because they can actually end up becoming a deterrent element. A clean sand box is the best way to control the unpleasant smell.

10) inconsistent schedules. Cats are comforted in routine and predictability. An inconsistent schedule often interrupts its sense of security. From food times to game sessions, try to maintain consistency for the comfort and tranquility of your cat. Predictability is very useful to reduce stress.

Photo: Abby Chung for Pexels

Understand and respect cat preferences, since these things are crucial to help avoid behavioral or health problems. Each cat is an individual with their own set of tastes and dislikes, but this list of 10 things that cats hate can help you create a more comfortable and safe environment.

Do you need more information?

If you want to obtain more information on the behavior and training of CAT, see the best-selling books by PAM Johnson-Bennett. PAM’s books are available in bookstores and online. We have included Links to Amazon here on our website for convenience.