Q: Is it possible to train a cat?

A: Yes, cat training is not as challenging as some doubters think it is. Kitties most likely are not as attentive to training as Fido or FiFi are but they can be trained. Tasty treats presented as positive reinforcement is probably the best way to train a cat.

Q: Why and how do kitties purr?

A: Grown kitties purr because they are happy and contented and to manipulate humans — who can resist a purring kitty? Kittens purr in answer to their mother cat’s purr to assist in bonding them. It is widely theorized that the purring is a vibration of the larynx as air is pushed though it. It is also believed that purring is a voluntary action.

Q: What makes a number of people are allergic to cats?

A: Cat allergies are caused by the proteins in cat dander coming from the cat’s saliva. The dander dries and becomes airborne. People with cat allergies have a reaction because their immune system is attempting to combat the alien protein and creates histamines.

Q: How do you halt undesirable cat behavior like scratching?

A: The best way to change unwanted cat behavior is the same way the mother cat controls an errant kitten. This is by scuffing the cat. You firmly but gently grasp the cat by the scruff of the neck and hold it down until it calms down. You must do this at the time of the undesirable behavior.

Q: How do you litter train a cat?

A: You really shouldn’t need to do any training for a cat to use a litter box, but if your previously litter trained cat has started to avoid the litter pan you need to find out why. The cat may have a urinary tract infection in which case you need to visit the vet. If it is just too dirty you need to keep it cleaner. If you have started using litter you may have to change back or sprinkle a little catnip in the litter to attract the cat to the new litter.

Q: How do you keep cats off the kitchen counter?

A: This is one of the most asked about cat behavior issues and can be a difficult one. Cats like elevated perches and they may find food or food smells on tables and counters. It is best to keep the counters clean and to use something like foil or double sided tape to keep cats off the tables.