Fluffy’s Cattitude

It’s National Grouch Day! While this occasion was started in honor of Sesame Street’s beloved Oscar the Grouch, quite a few of our feline friends definitely deserve some recognition here as well. Fluffy can be quite the little curmudgeon! Here, an Oconomowoc, WI vet discusses caring for a grumpy furball.

Reasons For Kitty Crankiness

While some cats are naturally grouchy, others act that way in reaction to something. Try to figure out why your furball is so cantankerous. Health issues are the first thing you’ll want to (hopefully) rule out. Schedule an appointment for a full exam. If Fluffy gets a clean bill of health, you can look at other options. Jealousy is one possibility. If you have more than one cat, your feline buddy may be envious of or competing with her roommate. Ask your vet for tips on this. Cats sometimes lash out if they feel frightened or bored. They also sometimes take things out on their humans or other pets. For instance, your furry little grump might actually be mad because she saw the neighbor’s cat in her yard. She can’t reach the intruder, so she might attack you instead.

Soothing The Savage Beast

Simply providing Fluffy with great care and some kitty luxuries can go a long way towards keeping her content. Offer your cat good food, fresh water, a clean litterbox, and, of course, lots of toys and beds.

Play Vs. Attacks

Cats are quite purrplexing. Fluffy sometimes attacks us just for fun, or as a way to practice her hunting skills. Kitties also sometimes start out playing, but then suddenly decide that they’re angry. Rough play may be cute in kittens, but it’s bad petiquette! To discourage your feisty furball from scratching, tell her ‘No’ firmly, or blow in her face. Then, ignore her until she’s ready to be polite. 

Work It Out

Try tiring Fluffy out with a fun play session. Let your feline friend get her angst out by attacking a wand toy instead of your foot.

A Purrfect Pet

Cats are all unique, and they all have their own personalities. Some kitties are just naturally cranky. Others just have a very low tolerance for being petted or held. Let Fluffy be herself! Don’t force attention on her, and if she’s acting bratty, just let her be.

As your Oconomowoc, WI animal clinic, we’re here to help! Call us anytime!