|
Destructive Behavior
|
Digging
Digging is a normal behavior for both dogs and cats. Cats, and less frequently dogs, tend to dig before and/or after elimination- cats to bury their waste and dogs to scatter their odors (Marking Behavior).
Dogs
Other reasons for dogs to dig include: to regulate body temperature, hunting (especially Terriers), burying items, playing and escaping.
Treatment may include:
- Provide a cool/shaded area.
- Rid yard of small prey. Rat poison kills dogs too! Never allow your dog access to rat poison.
- Provide an acceptable digging location.
- Determine why dog attempts to escape. (ex. Not neutered)
Cats
Cats tend to "scratch" rather than dig. Reasons for scratching include: scent marking, stretching muscles and to remove the outer sheath of the claws.
Treatment may include:
- Provide a scratching post
- Make scratching location aversive (ex. aluminum foil)
- Trim nails regularly or declaw
- Cover nails with Soft Paws®
|
Chewing
Dogs
Dogs need outlets for their energy. If dogs aren't given an adequate amount of playtime with appropriate playtoys, destructive chewing can occur. Destructive chewing may also be associated with anxiety or fear. (See Separation Anxiety)
Treatment may include:
- Provide appropriate toys (ex. Kong®, chew ropes)
- Provide an adequate amount of playtime
- Remove unacceptable temptations
- Apply a chew deterrent product (ex. Bitter Apple®)
Cats
Destructive chewing is not a common problem with cats. Young cats may chew electric cords, shoelaces and such during play. Adult cats may chew specific items such as plastic bags or houseplants.
Treatment may include:
- Provide appropriate toys. Never give string/yarn. Ingestion commonly becomes surgical.
- Restrict access to target items.
|
|
|