Q: Is cat training possible?

A: Yes, training a cat is not as hard as many owners think it is. Kitties probably are not as responsive to training as Fido or Rover are but they can be trained. Tasty treats presented as positive reinforcement is certainly the primary procedure to successful cat training.

Q: Why and how do happy cats purr?

A: Grown cats purr because they are happy and contented and to play on the emotions of humans — who can resist a purring cat? Kittens purr in response to their mother cat's purr to assist in bonding them. It is generally believed that the purring is a vibration of the voice box as air is pushed though it. It is also believed that purring is a voluntary action.

Q: What is the reason a number of people are allergic to cats?

A: Cat allergies are caused by the proteins in cat dander originating from the cat's saliva. The dander dries and becomes airborne. People with cat allergies demonstrate a reaction because their immune system is trying to attack the enemy protein and creates histamines.

Q: How do you curtail bad cat behavior like nipping?

A: The best way to stop naughty 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 be required to do any training for a cat to make use of a litter pan, but if your adult cat has begun to avoid the litter pan you need to determine the cause. The cat may have a urinary tract infection in which case you need to go to the vet. If it is just too dirty you need to keep it cleaner. If you have changed 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 table?

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