Cat

Ineffective behavior modification.

So when we took Snag to the vet the other week, they told us that his less appropriate behavior is likely “status agression.” We can modify it, they said, by shouting “NO!” or clapping loudly to startle/scare/redirect him when he does us wrong.

SCENE: five minutes ago. SARA is on her way up the stairs. It is dark. SNAG lies in wait.

SNAG: ::leaps at Sara’s leg::

SARA: NO!

SARA: ::climbs another step::

SNAG: ::leaps again, gains purchase with claws::

SARA: OW! NO!

SARA:  ::climbs another few steps::

SNAG: ::most acrobatic leap yet, digs in with claws, bites::

SARA: GODDAMMIT, CAT! NO! OW!

SARA: ::gives Snag an angry round of applause::

SNAG: ::flees, for the moment::

SARA: ::is bleeding in seven places::

Airport in t-minus five hours. Do you think he knows?

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  • Heidi
    April 4, 2008 at 12:30 am

    he knows.

    I tell my cat I’m leaving, and I tell her I’ll be back. I tell her how many days I’ll be gone and then I’ll be back. It seems to help.

  • spruce wayne
    April 4, 2008 at 11:50 am

    we are blessed that ramona just attacks the furniture.