Avoid the usual hectic chases before going to the vet, easily manage more than three cats (or dogs) and, finally, encourage cuddling moments with your furry friends.
Steps
Step 1. Begin by recognizing that a pet is a fully-fledged living being
Always keep in mind that that creature has eyes, a skeleton, a beating heart, and it learns to interact with you the way you interact with it. Remember that most animals, including your pets, usually don't like being hugged or cuddled. Birds, for example, do not show their affection in this way and therefore hugging and cuddling will not have the same value that you give them. In fact, some species of parrots react violently to cuddling. Macaw parrots, in particular, are known for their aggressive reaction to this type of approach, and can even gouge your eyes out.
Step 2. Get to know his character traits
This is especially important if you have several pets. In most cases, each animal will have their own preferences, their own way of reacting and responding to your requests and displays of affection.
Step 3. Put aside any silly supernatural notions and actively listen to your pet to understand what it is communicating to you
You won't start hearing him speak, of course, but you will find that he is mentally present and more responsive than is commonly thought.
Step 4. Stay calm and talk to your pet as if they can actually hear what you are saying (and in a way they are
). Speak softly to him especially when you are about to tell him that he needs to go to the vet or that he needs to take medicine. He understands that something is happening; the energy created by nervousness and a certain detachment will only increase the chances of a situation of chaos forming.
Contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained. It is easier when the animal is very young. The combination of positive conditioning, non-physical messages of disappointment, and a certain urgency when the action is not immediately carried out by the animal, will give the best results. Be consistent with the signals you will use to identify and reward a request. These include keywords, phrases and visual cues. Many times, this practice brings the human being closer to the animal and fosters a relationship of mutual respect, eliminating some of the disadvantages of having a pet. Keep this in mind when considering giving an animal to an elderly person. or to a family with children
Advice
- Treat animals the same way you would like to be treated!
- Cats seem to "go crazy" at night, as they start running around the house and jumping up and down from furniture. They will be more than happy to include you in this game. Take out their toys and play with them. Sometimes it happens at seven in the morning, but it can happen at any time of the night. Never punish them for this activity, as it is their way of burning off excess energy.
- Many pets feel calmer and safer if they can take refuge in a carrier or basket full of blankets (a quick and affordable solution) when you take them on a trip or have guests in the house.
- You can understand what a cat, dog, or any other pet wants by the movement of their ears, tail or body. If it's a bird, it will peck you when it's hungry or because it wants your attention. Sometimes the reasons will be other. If your dog wants to play, he will probably do some kind of "bow", raise his hindquarters and lean forward. There are several ways an animal can communicate and you simply show your love to them.
- No matter what a dog may look like when you leave him at the vet, he will be fine in any case. As soon as you leave, it will start behaving normally. When you go to pick him up, he'll seem more agitated, like he's been through a bad moment, but he's probably not.
- Sometimes it is better not to talk to the animal as you would a newborn, rather its character should be considered. Also, when used as a persuasion method, this type of approach could give opposite results and discourage the animal from following your requests.
- When you approach a cat, do not run towards it, but walk slowly, hold out your hands and let it sniff them; this may help him feel more confident in you.
