You and Your Cat

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Although cats are naturally independent animals, they can still be trained to display desirable rather than undesirable behaviour to ensure they fit in with your household.

Toilet training

Although cats are naturally independent animals, they can still be trained to display desirable rather than undesirable behaviour to ensure they fit in with your household.

You can teach your cat to respond to its name by using it when you interact with it. Undesirable behaviour (e.g. scratching furnishings, sleeping on beds) can be discouraged by using a gruff, loud tone of voice and a water pistol or spray bottle the instant any undesirable behaviour occurs. Always remember to praise and reward appropriate behaviour.

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Travelling with your cat

Many families like to take their pets with them on outings or holidays. It is important that your cat enjoys travel, and learns there are certain restrictions required for the safety of people and pets.

All animals must be restrained when travelling in cars. Cats should be placed in a sturdy travel cage, which has plenty of newspaper in the bottom. The travel cage should also be securely restrained within the vehicle. Your cat may feel more comfortable if the travel cage is covered with a light cloth. Cardboard boxes may be sufficient for small kittens, but should be avoided for adult cats and extended periods of travel.

NEVER leave a cat in a closed, stationary car - even in cool weather the interior of a car can become extremely hot which can be fatal to your cat!

Once at your destination, it is preferable to keep your cat indoors, otherwise it may get involved in territorial fights with other cats, or try to wander home.

Microchip identification

Unfortunately some cats do get lost. However, your vet can implant a small microchip under the skin of your cat as a means of permanent identification.

Microchips work in a similar way to a barcode, and allow your cat to be traced back to you through a central registry. In some regions, microchips are compulsory for all newly registered cats.

A collar with an identifying name, phone number and registration details will also help trace your cat back to you.

If your cat is lost, contact your local pound, council, RSPCA and veterinary clinics, as lost or injured animals are often brought to these centres.