http://www.purina.com http://www.kittenchow.com Teaching your kitten good behavior starts when they are young. Establishing discipline and managing behavior issues are essential for a growing cat. Behavior is learned and how you react impacts the kitten. The Kitten Connection features Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorist and Purina Cat Chow Mentor Dr. Karen Sueda. Learn more about pets on The Purina Network www.youtube.com/thepurinanetwork and http://www.petcentric.com/
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The Kitten Connection featuring Dr. Karen Sueda brought to you by Purina Kitten Chow.
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Hi! Im veterinarian and Purina Cat Chow Mentor Doctor Karen Sueda. Few things are more fun than watching a new kitten explore, get riled-up, and be rambunctious. But as your kitten grows, you may notice behaviors that cause concern. Its important to remember that cats and kittens dont misbehave just to make trouble or because theyre mad at you. Their behavior is largely based on instinct and learning. Its the way you react to your kitten that will ultimately affect her habits. Your kitten will be sensitive to your tone of voice. If you catch your kitten acting inappropriately, clap your hands and say a stern no. Clapping your hands often interrupts the undesirable behavior. Ideally, try to do this out of your kittens sight so they dont associate your presence with the reprimand. That way, they wont learn they can misbehave when youre not around. Never, ever hit your kitten or use your hands to make physical contact with her when you are upset. This can have a very negative impact on her trust of you and your long-term relationship. Some misbehavior occurs just because your kitten wants to play and might not have her social or exploratory needs met. Its important to set aside special play time where she can get energy out and explore. Providing diversions such as safe toys, window perches, climbing towers, and scratching posts will allow your kitten to engage in normal behaviors in an appropriate way. Another way to strengthen your bond and develop your kittens mind is to teach her tricks. With a little patience, you can teach her to shake hands, wave, sit up, and come when called. If youre experiencing common shenanigans like your kitten jumping on counters, inappropriate scratching, or crazy behavior in the middle of the night, youll find plenty of good suggestions on how to address these by visiting KittenChow.com. I think youll find that establishing good behaviors early and engaging your kitten in fun activities will result in household harmony. Thanks for watching! And remember that giving your kitten lots of love and affection will help build the foundation for your happy, healthy life together.
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The Kitten Connection is brought to you by Purina Kitten Chow. To see more kitten care videos and even ask a mentor a question of your own, visit KittenChow.com.
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