Pets actually want you to know what they’re thinking and do their best to clue you in. It just takes some watching. We got a couple of animal lovers to point out some common pet behaviors and what they mean. They guarantee that once you know what your pet is trying to tell you, you and your family will avoid a lot of aggravation and love your pet that much more.
Your cat is pushing his claws into you. It’s certainly not your idea of a good time when your cat gets on you and then rhythmically pushes his front paws into your belly, chest, throat, or any convenient spot while purring like a band saw. He’s “kneading,” what he did as a kitten to let down as much milk as possible into his momma’s nipples so he could have a good long drink. Cats never lose this instinct—it’s their way of expressing contentment. To settle the kneading down, move him to your lap and stroke him gently until he relaxes and goes to sleep.
Your male dog is getting amorous with your kid’s leg. It’s not really about getting some action. He’s trying to broadcast the news that he’s the alpha wolf, at least over this particular pack member. You need to make sure that he knows his place in your family “pack” and that he’s subordinate to every human family member. Get your kid involved in training classes with your dog. And make sure a puppy is neutered when he’s 6 months old. It won’t put an end to dominant behavior (that takes training), but it will help.
Your cat is “missing” the litter box. Cats aren’t being troublemakers (and shouldn’t be punished) when they go outside the litter box. They’re trying to tell you something. Is the litter box in a private location? Do you clean the litter box daily, adding fresh, dry litter and enzymatic odor eaters? (Imagine how you’d feel if your family’s toilet was only flushed once a week.) Is the litter box too small and confined? Are you using scented litter? (Cats’ noses are much more sensitive than ours, and scents can send them away.) If none of these issues seem to be a problem, your cat may have a urinary tract infection and needs to be taken to the vet.
Your puppy is circling the floor. Puppies don’t automatically head to the back door, sit down, and bark to let you know they need to go out. A restless pup that’s circling the floor, head down, sniffing, and possibly whimpering is trying to get your attention and probably needs to go out ASAP. Be on the watch for these signs, especially about 15 minutes after a pup has eaten or when she first wakes up. Or simply make it a habit to take her out at those times.
Your cat arches his back, hisses, and hops sideways, with fur on end. This classic “Halloween cat” posture tells you that your cat is very afraid, and he’s trying to make himself look as huge and scary as possible. Don’t try to touch your cat to reassure him. Instead, look around for what might have scared him, and try to remove the threat.
Your dog is growling and barking in her sleep. She may be trembling or twitching as well. This can be especially disturbing if your dog is a gentle type that never barks or growls when she’s awake. Don’t worry—your dog’s just dreaming. And whether human or dog, having an active dream life is healthy. This is definitely a time to let sleeping dogs lie!
Your cat seems to be loving your petting, then suddenly whips out a paw and claws you. While some cats never get enough stroking and petting, others are easily overstimulated. You’re right that your cat is enjoying your attention (usually even purring), but then it becomes too much. Look for warning signs that she’s had enough—often restlessness and a twitching tip of tail. Then stop petting and allow her to rest in your lap without touching her. It’s especially important to teach this to kids, since a few clawing episodes might make them afraid of a generally loving pet.
My friend was visiting and petting Bruiser and stopped and Bruiser tried to bite her, he also hits at my son when he doesn't want him to stop....but he is such a big baby to me. Lays down on my and puts his paw up on my face and "pets " me. he is getting to be a big cat.
Dress Up a Plain Suit
