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Cat Training and Behavior (Domestic and Feral)/Cat attacks legs
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Question
Dear Tabbi-
We own a 17 month old tabby tom named George. We love him, but for the
first time, this morning, he jumped onto my back and dug his claws into me!
Why is he doing this? We got him neutered at the proper time but thats it.
Joe,
Stop that behavior immediately before it becomes a habit. Yell at him, shake him off hard, use a rolled up newspaper, anything for him to associate jumping on your back with loud noises or something scarry. Wait a few minutes then pet him so he isn't afraid of you, but afraid to do what made you upset.
He is more than likely doing it for attention and to be petted. Try to give him attention BEFORE he 'asks' for it.
You may want to get him a kitty friend. At that age they like to play and need a friend to play kitty games with, and to be companionship and comfort when he is alone. I would try to find one about his same age and temperment. Two cats are easier to take care of then one because they have each other, and it takes the pressure off of you to keep them amused and entertained.
Carol
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Answers by Expert:
Dear Tabbi
Expertise
My expertise is in helping people understand their cat (or cats) and their behavior. Questions are welcome even if you don't have a cat....just a question about them. Hopefully my experience, suggestions, and comments will be of help to you...and your cat (or cats). Looking through my past responses to questions will give you additional information and/or answers too. Domestic Cats = cats (no matter what breed) who are tame or not wild, or abandoned cats who were pets that became wild, but can be tamed again. Ferals = cats who are born with one or more parents who were wild stray cats. They usually have had no interactions with people. They have an inbred distrust of humans and are difficult to socialize. They are skittish, hide, and are afraid of people. They take a lot of time and patience to work with them. A lot of kittens from shelters had a feral parent.
Experience
Since I was a child, over 45 years, I have been owned by a LOT of cats and kittens of almost every temperament, behavior, and personality. I have had experience with neurotic, disabled (including blind), stray, and 'problem child' cats and kittens. (A few normal cats too!) Plus all the things a lifetime of owning cats and research has taught me. I also have experience in feral cat behavior (which is different from domestic cats), and some experience with feral colonies that includes colony feeding and feral cat TNR (trap/neuter/release).
Education/Credentials
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* One of the top 50 Experts Of 2008 *
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