Attention-Seeking Behaviour in Cats?

Question

We have a delightful bengal cat (2 years old), that has become a problem. I say delightful as he is very chatty, and affectionate, but his major problem has become his constant attention seeking.

This takes the form of general bad behaviour: climbing on surfaces he knows he shouldn't (he even looks to make sure that we are paying attention!), scratching us, disapproving looks when me and my partner cuddle up together etc.

He is NOT a naughty or destructive cat, but we are at our wits end at how to cope with him at the moment. He even has an issue with housework being done!

Any tips are greatly received.

Answer 1

Bengals are a very needy breed of cats that will go to lengths for attention and play. Your Bengal is likely exhibiting this "negative" behavior because he's getting a reaction out of you. He doesn't see it as "bad" - he sees it as a game.



By reacting to his "bad" behavior, you're unwittingly giving him a "reward" - or what he wants -- attention.



To make him stop this "negative" attention-seeking behavior, you'll need to ignore him, or redirect his attention. If you see him eyeing you before he does something he's not supposed to, grab a toy and start a game with him. A favorite "re-direct" that I use is the paper ball toss. When your Bengal starts misbehaving, crumple up a piece of paper into a small, tight wad and toss it across the room. This re-direct will turn attention-seeking into a positive game/behavior that will also help exercise him and tucker him out.



As for disapproving looks, you may be antropromorphising a little, but regardless, he'll get over it.

Answer 2

He may just be bored and need more attention to tire him out. I have a male three year old cat and sometimes he gets hyper and runs around the house like a maniac and will jump out at you from under tables and things and swat at your legs. I have found that the best thing to do is get a lazer pointer from the dollar store or something and sit with the cat for a few minutes and point the lazer on the carpet and have him chase it down a hallway for a few minutes, the cat loves it and no matter what you direct where they follow it so they wont go on anything there not supposed too. Maybe try also getting some treats or some sort of reward to give the cat.

Answer 3

if ur partner is new then ur cat is jealous of the attention ur giving him. put the cat on ur lap when you cuddle with ur partner. throw cat toys on the floor when u clean.

Answer 4

looks like he is bored get him some cat toys or put him outside in the garden