Caring for a Grouchy Cat

Did you know that today, October 15th, is National Grouch Day? While this holiday may technically be meant to honor grumpy people, there’s no reason we can’t take this opportunity to celebrate grouchy pets. Just like people, our animal friends all have their own personalities, and some of them are, well, a bit cantankerous. If you have a furry little curmudgeon on your hands, read on. A local Fort Collins, CO vet discusses caring for a grumpy cat in this article.

If your kitty is, well, rather cranky, schedule a veterinary appointment for her right away. Medical issues can have a huge effect on Fluffy’s temperament, so you’ll want to make sure that her grumpiness isn’t caused by health problem. If your feline buddy gets the all-clear, then you know you have an ornery pet, rather than a sick one.

While some kitties are basically furry little cuddlebugs, others prefer to be admired from a distance. Always let Fluffy decide when it’s time to snuggle. Keep in mind that cats can quickly change their minds about when and how they want to be petted. Never force attention on your cat!

Cats can get very uneasy if they have nowhere to retreat to. Make sure Fluffy has somewhere to go in every room, even if it’s just a spot under the couch or behind a bookcase. Kitties often feel safer in high, secure places, so vertical space is a good option.

One curious thing about cats is the fact that they sometimes attack their human pals playfully. If Fluffy is just being silly, she probably won’t bite or scratch hard, and won’t sustain the attack. A feline that is truly angry will attack full-force, and may hiss, growl, lash her tail, or flatten her ears. If your pet is being aggressive, ask your vet for advice. Never punish your kitty for biting or scratching: this may just make matters worse!

Offer Fluffy plenty of fun toys, and take time to play with her every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. This will allow your feisty furball to take out her aggressions on an appropriate target – that fuzzy mouse toy—instead of on you.

Please contact us, your Fort Collins, CO pet hospital, for all of your grouchy cat’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!