Just like people, kitties all have their own unique characteristics and purrsonalities. Some of our feline pals are sweet and friendly, some are talkative, and some are, well, rather dour. If you have a furry little curmudgeon on your hands, read on! Here, a London, ON vet discusses caring for a cranky kitty.

Veterinary Care

First things first: you’ll want to rule out the possibility that your cat is irritable because she isn’t feeling well. Have Fluffy examined thoroughly, and make sure she is current with her vaccinations and parasite control. If your furball gets the green light, then at least you know she’s grumpy, rather than sick.

Playtime

Cats can get bored and irritated with nothing to do. Make sure Fluffy has lots of toys to smack around. Your kitty will also appreciate some pet furniture and a comfy window seat with a good view. It’s also important to play with your cat regularly. This will give your furball a healthy outlet for her angst, and will also help burn off excess energy. After a fun session of Catch The Red Dot, your pet will hopefully be a bit tired, and therefore calmer.

Hidey Holes

Cats have big purrsonalities, but at the end of the day, they are very small and fragile, and are easily frightened. Your kitty may be grouchy because she feels uneasy or threatened. Toddlers can sometimes make cats nervous, even if they don’t mean to, as they may be unintentionally loud or rough. Other pets can also put Fluffy on edge. Make sure your grouchy feline has hiding spots to go to in every room, so she always has somewhere to retreat to. This can be a spot under the couch or behind a bookcase, a pet tent, or vertical space, such as a cat tower.

Fluffy’s Rules

Our feline overlords can be a bit fussy at some times. It’s entirely possible that Fluffy just doesn’t like to be touched or picked up, but will do just fine if left alone. Never force attention on a cat, especially a grumpy one. On the other hand, if your pet is acting aggressive, you’ll want to get to the root of the issue. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Please call us, your London, ON pet hospital, with any questions or concerns about your cat’s health or care. We’re here to help!