The Importance of Slowly Introducing a New Cat
Bringing a new cat into your home is an exciting moment, but for the cat, it can be one of the most stressful experiences of their life. Cats are territorial animals that rely on familiarity, scent, and routine to feel safe. A slow, methodical introduction to a new household is not optional, it is essential […]
Christmas with Cats – Holiday Hazards
The festive season is a time of warmth, celebration, and decorating our homes with beautiful, shiny things… which, to your cat, look like toys, climbing frames, and hunting targets.It’s completely normal for cats to be curious during the holidays, but with that curiosity comes a few risks. Knowing what to avoid – and how to […]
The Hidden Dangers of Feeding Raw Food to Puppies and Kittens
Raw feeding has become a popular trend, with many owners believing it’s “natural,” “healthier,” or closer to what dogs and cats would eat in the wild. But when it comes to puppies and kittens, a raw diet can be far more dangerous than people realise. Young, growing animals have delicate nutritional needs, immature immune systems, […]
Why Is My Cat Spraying in the House? Causes, Solutions & What to Do
Cat spraying is one of the most frustrating behaviours for cat owners and one of the most misunderstood. While many people assume spraying equals “dominance,” it’s actually a form of communication. Understanding why your cat is spraying is the first step to fixing it for good. In this guide, we’ll break down the common reasons […]
Understanding Pain & Behaviour Changes in Cats
Why Recognising Pain in Cats Is So Important Cats are masters of disguise. In the “wild”, showing pain makes them vulnerable, so they’ve evolved to hide it, even from the people who love them most. Unfortunately, that means a cat in pain may look perfectly “fine” on the surface. 1. How Pain Affects a Cat’s […]
Why You Might Need a Cat Behaviourist
When Your Cat’s Behaviour Becomes a Mystery. Cats are complex, sensitive creatures; deeply emotional, yet often misunderstood.If your cat has started biting, hiding, urinating outside the litter box, or showing sudden aggression, it’s not “bad behaviour.” It’s communication. At Gentled Animals in Cape Town, our certified animal behaviourists specialise in understanding why cats behave the […]
How to Help Your Kitten Be More Confident
Bringing a new kitten home is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming for such a tiny creature. Some kittens are naturally bold, while others are shy, hiding under furniture or avoiding new people and sounds. Just like people, confidence isn’t something all cats are born with- it’s something that can be nurtured over time. […]
Why Doesn’t My Cat Like My Other Cat? Understanding Feline Relationships
Bringing a second cat into your home can feel exciting, but sometimes your cats don’t see it that way. If you’ve found yourself asking “why doesn’t my cat like my other cat?”, you’re not alone. Cats are territorial animals with unique personalities, and it’s common for tension to arise between them, especially at the beginning. […]
Types of Aggression in Cats: Understanding the Causes & Finding Gentle Solutions
For many cat guardians, sudden hissing, swatting, or biting can be confusing and upsetting. The truth is, feline aggression is not about being “naughty” or “bad.” It’s a form of communication; your cat’s way of saying, “I’m scared, uncomfortable, or overwhelmed.” 1. Fear-Based Aggression When a cat feels threatened or trapped, their instinct may be […]
Clicker Training for Cats: Is It Possible?
When most people think of clicker training, they picture dogs learning tricks, horses practising groundwork, or dolphins performing in shows. But what about cats? Can our feline companions actually learn through clicker training, or is it just wishful thinking? The answer is: yes, cats can absolutely be clicker trained. In fact, many cats thrive on […]