If there’s one predictable thing about cats, it’s that they are often unpredictable. For those new to being a cat guardian (or servant, as we jokingly prefer), there can be some frustrating challenges. But there is plenty of help out there, including from our friend Jackson Galaxy!
Recently, Galaxy shared some helpful information about the top 5 reasons people come to him for consultations about cats. With over 30 years of behavioral consultations, he’s seen it all. Yet cats still find “creative ways” to frustrate their guardians. However, these are the ones he sees most often.
Galaxy offers lots of insights, helpful tips, and videos for those facing these challenges. But if all else fails, he’s there for consultations, too!
Whatever you do, please don’t give up on a cat! With shelters and rescues helping record numbers of pets, you are your cats’ best hope!
Top Reasons People Need Help with Cats
According to Jackson, the top 5 reasons people consult him for help are:
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Litter Box Issues
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Multi-Cat Friction
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Fearfulness
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Aggression
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Hyperactivity
Help for Litter Box Issues
One of the reasons cats make incredible indoor companions is they use a litter box. But when they have problems with using it, we want a solution immediately. The best idea is to consult the vet, as it could be a sign of physical discomfort, pain, and illness.
Otherwise, there could be territorial issues from multiple cats or even feral cats outside the home! You can see more clues from Galaxy, the Detective, below.
Video by Jackson Galaxy:
Help For Multi-Cat Friction
When cats have lived together for a long time, there is always a bit of harmless friction. But when introducing a new cat, a full-scale war can break out. This is where an expurrt’s advice is a lifesaver, for you and your cat!
As we’ve shared, it takes a very gradual introduction, with cats kept in separate areas for a while. In the meantime, they can become familiar with their new siblings’ scent and presence gradually. There’s no rush, and it’s best to take things slowly.
Galaxy wrote the book on “Catification,” on designing an optimal cat environment. Having the right environment helps dispel tension between cats in the home. For example, they need high places in a cat tree to escape and feel safe.
Video by Jackson Galaxy:
Help for Fearful Kitties
A lot of people aren’t aware that even in the best of circumstances, a newly adopted cat can take several months to overcome fear and feel at home. But what about if they remain fearful?
Galaxy uses a wide range of techniques to empower the kitty Wallflower.
Video by Jackson Galaxy:
Help for Aggressive Cats
Folks may not expect aggression from a cat, but if you’ve watched “My Cat From Hell,” you know it can be extremely stressful for everyone. Galaxy has identified over 8 different forms of aggression and how to diffuse and redirect it effectively.
Note: Whatever you do, don’t try to pick up a cat in a highly agitated state!
Video by Jackson Galaxy:
Help For Hyperactive Cats
One of the most frequent reasons Galaxy is consulted is for the hyperactive cat or kitten. As we know, kittens are usually the first to be adopted. They’re ridiculously cute, but first-time guardians may have no idea how much energy one kitten has. They could power the grid!
“Kittens are just one big toy-seeking missile. They’re just looking for fun and sometimes, in all the wrong places,” Galaxy says.
In his video, Galaxy explains how to direct a kitten’s attention to interactive toys and away from your delicate skin!
Although counterintuitive, adopting a second kitten is usually a purrfect idea, making it easier for you! Kittens learn so much from each other and love having a playmate/wrestling buddy.
“Cats being with other cats is the most natural thing, more natural than being with humans,” Galaxy says. “It is the most gratifying thing for a cat to grow up with another cat.”
See more on Jackson Galaxy’s website, Facebook, and Instagram. Cole and Marmalade also have lots of articles to help you enjoy life with cats!
Video by Jackson Galaxy:
Featured image via Facebook/Jackson Galaxy with Haru, the cat and I Am the Cat Photographer
