Stopping unwanted behavior in cats often requires a combination of understanding why the behavior is happening and implementing strategies to redirect or discourage it. In this CatsandWoofs article, you will get general tips to stop unwanted behaviors. So do not skip. 

Punishing Doesn’t Work

Yelling, scolding, spraying water, spanking, rubbing their nose in pee – these are considered punishing for cats. Cats usually don’t know the cause of punishment and often feel frustrated, avoiding. 

1. Stop Your Cat from Getting to the Counter: Try to avoid placing food on the counter. Placing a cat tree near the kitchen can help.
   
   

   

2. Stop Scratching Things: Cats usually scratch different objects to smooth their nail tips. Using sticky tapes where the cat usually scratches can be beneficial to stop them. Providing them with scratching posts is also a way to prevent your furniture from getting scratched.

    

3. Let You Sleep in Peace: It’s common for cats to try to wake you up in the middle of the night. Offering a meal before bed, playing before bed, and ignoring them while staying awake can help stop this unwanted behavior. 
   
   

How to Say NO? 

These are common unwanted behaviors along with various others. To say “no” to a cat in a short and effective way, you can use a firm tone of voice and a simple command like “No” or “Stop,” followed by redirection to a more appropriate behavior. Additionally, you can use a gentle physical gesture like gently removing the cat from the situation or creating a barrier to prevent the unwanted behavior. If your cat responds well to treats, you can use them as a reward for stopping the unwanted behavior and redirecting to a more desirable one. For example, if your cat stops scratching furniture when you say “no” and redirects to a scratching post, immediately praise them and offer a treat. Seek specialized help if concerned. This helps reinforce the desired behavior and encourages them to not repeat it in the future.