Q&A for How to Discipline Cats

In addition to cuddling and petting, showing you love your cat also means meeting all their basic feline needs. As well as food and shelter, this includes playtime, the ability to climb, an opportunity to exercise their claws (scratch!) and hunt (even if it's toys). Meeting these needs leads to better behavior.

Cats often poop on items or places that smell strongly of something they link to security. In this case, she may be pooping on your bed because it helps her feel close to you and reassured when you are away. To resolve the problem, make sure she has a clean litter tray at all times, and put something that smells of you (a T-shirt or jumper) on her favorite sleeping spot. Also try using a feline pheromone diffuser which sends out reassuring signals. Do not punish her, as this only increases feelings of insecurity.

This requires considerable dedication and patience. Provide 5 litter trays (one for each cat plus one spare) in different locations around the house. Thoroughly deodorize all areas where the cats have already marked, as the scent will draw them back. Put food bowls on the areas where they toilet most often, as the cat is less likely to soil near food. Never punish a cat, as this increases their anxiety and the need to spray to establish her territory. Consider using Feliway to make the cats more tolerant of each other. Give each cat individual attention and play at some point during the day. Try and give the cats access to the outdoors.

Unfortunately, the cat may become fearful of you and avoid you. Cats rarely link punishment to the crime and are more likely to think you are unsafe to be around. However, if it was just a one-off, try and make it up to her with treats and a fuss, and she may well forgive you.

If this is a new habit, get the cat checked by a vet. There are several medical conditions that cause night-time disturbance. If the cat is well, then be sure not to respond to the meowing, because this rewards the behavior and it will persist. Instead, play with the cat an hour before bedtime, and then give her a meal. Settle her down in a comfy bed (perhaps with a heat pad) in a peaceful room. If she wakes, ignore her. It might be necessary to turn a deaf ear for several nights, but she will eventually get the message and stop crying.

The kitten probably views the adult as a play mate, and she therefore is stimulated to attack when the cat walks past. One option is to let the adult cat "discipline" the younger one by hissing, spitting, and swatting at the youngster. Most adults make an impressive noise (designed to deter the kitten) without actually causing damage. Alternatively, completely separate the cat and kitten, and slowly introduce them using scent swapping and staged meetings where the youngest cannot chase the adult.

If the cat is stalking the dog, rather than running away, this shows self-confidence on the cat's part. If the dog is a puppy (and therefore amenable to being trained by the cat!) or submissive, then the cat will most likely intimidate the dog and teach him to respect her, at which point they will live in peace together. If the dog is liable to attack the cat, keep them in separate rooms and make sure the cat is never cornered. Train the dog to a rock-solid "Sit," and, if necessary, keep a leash on in the house so you can control him at all times.