Think Like A Cat...

You're a predator at heart. Your instincts tell you to pounce, run, climb, perch and sometimes hide. You must keep your claws sharp. And you must protect your territory by marking its boundaries, because your life - and the lives of your offspring - depend on it.

Did you know that...


- Of all our domestic animals, cats are the closest to their wild ancestors. In fact, some behaviorists think cats are not domesticated at all.


- Cats are independent, self-sufficient and resourceful, but they are not antisocial. When they live in our homes, they need our attention and companionship.


- Cats understand what we say to them. Some behaviorists theorize that they have a "human" vocabulary of about 200 words.


- Cats think, comprehend and form bonds and attachments.


- A cat values its territory more than anything else, including food and the opportunity to mate.


- Cats are creatures of habit. Even the tiniest change in its routine or environment can cause stress and inappropriate behavior.


- Cats do not "misbehave" out of spite. When they sharpen their claws on our furniture or mark their territory on our rugs, they are only doing what comes naturally.

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This handout was prepared with love for cats by Missy Zane of the Howard County Cat Club. Reprinted with permission-this article may not be reproduced without written permission.