Keep it positive when helping cat adjust to car rides
Our cat stays with relatives when we travel. She enjoys her time there, but the transportation is an issue. She hates the caging and the car ride. As soon as she realizes she’s going into the crate, she hides under beds. Would a larger carrier help, or is there something else we can do?
Cats, like dogs, can make associations. They realize that certain items predict positive or negative experiences. In this situation, the crate reliably predicts car rides. Since car rides are unappealing, the crate becomes something to avoid.
The solution is to treat cats more like dogs in terms of training. Give them the same learning opportunities. Teach that crates and car rides are pleasant.
Switching crates may be an option. However, before doing so, recognize that the new crate may appear to work because it does not carry the same negative baggage. Over time, the cat can realize that the new crate is no different from the old one. The problem resurfaces.
If adding a new crate, introduce it in conjunction with behaviour modification. Convince the cat that this new crate is different.
The first step is to introduce the crate in a positive manner. Bring the crate into the room. Feed the cat some very tiny flakes of special food. Keep the session short. Put the crate away and give a break. Repeat this until the cat is happy to see the new crate.
Next, put those bits of food inside, leaving the door open. Build trust. Gradually begin closing the door and building duration. The cat learns to be happy inside the crate for longer periods because it means special treats are available. Once this happens, start moving crate with the cat inside to various locations. Continue to offer food.
Only then, bring the cat, inside the crate, into the car. There is no need to drive anywhere initially. When ready for that first trip, it should only be to the end of driveway. Extend the trip length with the cat’s behaviour being the guide.
Keep it within the cat’s abilities and keep it positive. Cats are no different than dogs in that a clear plan within their capabilities is the path to success. Our new puppy dislikes being brushed. How do we make him to stand still and accept grooming?
The short answer is to make the dog enjoy grooming. Dogs that like being brushed do not avoid it. They solicit it. Most puppy owners typ- ically purchase a grooming brush at the pet store that has hundreds of metal bristles. While popular, watching an owner use one is like watching a parent untangle a screaming young child’s long hair.
Take a lesson from parents and choose a brush that feels better. Rubber curry combs are great for some dogs. For those that require detangling, try a Tangle Tamer Max. Like a dog grooming brush, it has many bristles, but they are made of softer plastic and designed for detangling child’s hair without pain.
Introduce all new tools slowly. Show the brush to the dog and offer a treat. Touch the brush to the dog’s skin and offer another. Watch the dog’s response to gauge whether to push forward or practice easy introductions for longer. Make the first stroke short and offer yet another treat. Most dogs learn to love new grooming tools quickly if introduced correctly.
When dogs do have serious tangles, make use of conditioning products to make the process less painful. Dogs can learn to enjoy grooming. We can also make it a less painful process by striving to make it pleasant. Yvette Van Veen is an animal behaviour consultant. Write her at advice@awesomedogs.ca.