weave1.jpg – Caption. [Optional]
Picture courtesy Pat Koven, BA, LVT, KPACTP, LSHC-S
Q: My cat at all times tries to roll round my toes or weave by means of my legs after I stroll. I’m afraid of falling. Is there something I can do?
A: Though your cat weaving round your legs can appear cute, it may be harmful, particularly in case you have mobility points. Cats do that for consideration, to point out affection, or to information you towards one thing they need, like meals or play. There are protected and enjoyable alternate options to show your cat.
First, perceive what your cat needs. Cats usually do that when they’re excited, like throughout mealtimes, or once they wish to be close to you. As a substitute of punishing the conduct that may trigger stress, handle the trigger. Set up a predictable feeding routine so your cat is aware of when meals is coming. This may also help scale back their want to escort you to their bowl.
weave2.jpg – Caption. [Optional]
Picture courtesy Pat Koven, BA, LVT, KPACTP, LSHC-S
Present enrichment all through the day to scale back attention-seeking and tedium behaviors. Puzzle feeders, cat bushes, and interactive toys can maintain them mentally and bodily engaged. Have a 10-minute play session twice each day in areas the place your cat doesn’t attempt to weave between your toes. This can keep away from reinforcing their consideration in areas the place they generally journey you. Boredom is commonly a cause for clinginess, so assembly their enrichment wants can naturally scale back this concern.
Train your cat another conduct, reminiscent of a “sit” or “go to” a selected spot, like a mat or stool, when they need one thing. Use optimistic reinforcement to seize the fascinating conduct of going to their spot as an alternative of being underfoot. Your cat will rapidly be taught that going to this spot earns them consideration or meals sooner than weaving between your legs.
In case your cat tends to weave if you come dwelling or when you’re strolling by means of particular areas, contemplate educating a “transfer away” cue. Toss a deal with away as you progress, encouraging your cat to comply with the deal with as an alternative of your legs. This could additionally assist fulfill their pure want to hunt and catch prey. Arrange a deal with station close to the issue areas in your home to seize treats earlier than coming into this zone. An alternative choice is utilizing a wand toy to maintain your cat away as you stroll. Be according to these strategies, and your cat will be taught that good issues occur in the event that they keep away from your toes.
