Choosing the Right Litterbox for Your Cat

February 8, 2024 • Ask LSH Cats I am a... Trainer Veterinary Professional

By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB

orange kitten in blue cat box

Q: I’m getting a kitten. What kind of litter box should I get?

 A: Making the right litter box choice is more than just appearance. It plays an important role in cat behavior and house-soiling prevention.

Size Matters

  • Choose a larger box. Cats prefer a spacious area for digging and covering.
  • Ensure the box can comfortably accommodate your cat’s size, ideally 1 1/2 times the length of the cat from nose to base of the tail.
  • Cats should be able to turn around in the box without touching the sides.

Litter Depth and Type:

  • Cats have a natural digging behavior.
  • Two to three inches of litter allows them to cover efficiently.
  • Non-scented, clay, clumping litter is often best.
  • Some cats may not like crystals, pellets, or wood shaving-type litter.

Types of Litter Boxes

  • Self-cleaning boxes can be convenient but might scare some cats.
  • Hooded boxes provide privacy, but make sure there is proper air circulation.
  • Open boxes are generally more accepted but provide less privacy.

Three different types of litter boxes

covered litter box

How Many Boxes?

  • Follow the golden rule: number of cats + 1.
  • In multi-cat households, put boxes in various locations to give options and to prevent territorial disputes.

Location is Key

  • Choose a quiet, low-traffic area.
  • Have a minimum of one box per level of the house.
  • Keep the box away from feeding zones.
  • Ensure easy access and escape routes.

a litterbox with access stairs

Maintenance

  • Traditional boxes require manual cleaning.
  • Choose a box that is easy to clean.
  • Daily scooping keeps the box fresh and encourages usage.
  • The box should be emptied and washed weekly with non-scented dish detergent.
  • Litter should be replaced as needed.
  • Avoid using litter box liners because some cats do not like the feel or smell.

Special Considerations

  • For cats that tend to kick litter out, use high-sided boxes and consider placing a litter-trapping mat under the box.
  • Elderly or arthritic cats might benefit from ramps or lower sides.
  • Some cats might be sensitive to certain box materials or odors.

Every cat is unique. It might take trial and error to find the perfect fit.

Introducing a New Cat Into the Home

February 7, 2024 • Behavior Bytes Cats I am a... Pet Owner Shelter Worker Veterinary Professional

By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB

Long-haired tabby kitten among many colorful toys

Introducing a new cat to your home is a big deal, especially if you already have cats. It is like adding a new member to your family, and you want everyone to get along. So, here is how you can introduce everyone for a smoother and more peaceful transition.

1. Prepare a cozy room: Before the new cat arrives, set up a quiet room with everything the cat needs: a comfortable bed, food, water, a litter box, and toys. This will be the new cat’s safe space to start getting used to your home.

2. Lots of resources: Cats can be territorial and a bit possessive about their stuff. To avoid any fights, make sure there are enough toys, food bowls, and litter boxes around the house. This way, each cat has their own space and does not feel the need to compete.

3. Check with your veterinarian: Make sure your new cat is healthy and does not have any illnesses that could spread to your other cats. A quick visit to the veterinarian can help ensure everyone stays happy and healthy.

4. Swap scents: Cats learn a lot about each other through smell. You can help them get used to each other by swapping their scents. Use a soft brush to gently brush one cat along the side of their face where their scent glands are, and then use the same brush on the other cat. This mixes their scents and helps them feel more familiar with each other. Do not do this if it makes either cat anxious.

5. Community room introductions: Let each cat have time to explore the community space without the other. When each can relax in this space, it is time to let them mingle. Always monitor body language during this step to make sure neither is getting stressed. Be ready with treats and toys to make sure these introductions are positive, and never leave them unattended until you are sure they are comfortable around each other.

6. Treats and play in the community room: Start by feeding them treats in the shared space. You can ask them to do tricks and other fun behaviors they already know, like touch or going to a mat. This helps them to associate one other with yummy food and fun things. Make sure each cat can retreat to their own space, and do not force them to interact.

7. Gradually increase together time: As they start getting used to each other, you can let them spend more time together. But always keep an eye on them to make sure everyone is playing nice.

8. What about other pets? Follow a similar process introducing your new cat to other pets. Be sure your cat always has an opportunity to escape into their safe space and supervise dogs and cats together until you are certain they are friends.

Remember, patience is key. Some cats become friends quickly, while others take more time. By giving each their own space and a bit of time, you will be more successful in bringing them together.

Scent Work – A Natural Outlet for Decompression and Enrichment

January 19, 2024 • Cats CattleDog Publishing Newsletter Dogs I am a... Pet Owner Trainer

By Barb Deg, RVT, CDBC, CPDT-KA, CSAT

Brown dog sniffing around blue boxes and orange cones

Images Courtesy Barb Deg, RVT, CDBC, CPDT-KA, CSAT

Dogs and other species explore and learn a great deal about their world through scent. In fact, that is how they primarily explore the world when they are born. Humans may not understand the importance of giving dogs access to sniffing time, and as a result, sniffing and seeking out different odor sources is actively discouraged. To ensure that dogs are ready to receive information, humans tend to reinforce eye contact and attention rather than letting dogs sniff and explore.

Scent work is a great way for dogs, cats, and even horses to get a chance to use those natural senses. Sniffing has physical and emotional benefits for dogs. It can decrease heart rate, lower blood pressure, and improve a dog’s optimism. Dogs build confidence and independence when they are allowed to sniff. Scent work provides important observations about physical health and emotional stressors. 

There has been a significant increase in the popularity of sport scent detection, where dogs and handlers participate in trials to locate unknown hidden scent targets. This activity is enjoyable for both dogs and handlers, as it allows dogs to engage in sniffing while giving handlers insight into their dog’s natural abilities. When organizing scent exercises, having clear objectives is essential. Sport scent detection is goal-oriented, while scent work for decompression and emotional well-being is more casual. Scent work can be as casual as taking a loose leash walk and letting your dog explore or as structured as competitive sport scent detection.

Blue boxes set up on floor ready to begin scent work

Images Courtesy Barb Deg, RVT, CDBC, CPDT-KA, CSAT

Setting up Scent Work for Decompression and Enrichment

Choice is important when setting up scent activities for decompression and enrichment. Use a variety of your dog’s favorite food rewards or toys to encourage your dog to hunt.  When using food, have the rewards easily accessible and be liberal with the amount. Do not inadvertently create too much pressure for your dog by having them work too hard. Walls, corners, or many changes in footing can create conflict for your dog when they are learning the game. Do not micromanage. As dogs understand the game better, space out the food rewards until they are all in one location. 

Observing the behavior when your dog is searching, as well as after they are done, determines if the game is helpful with decompression or if adjustments need to be made. If arousal increases (searching more frantically) or your dog becomes reluctant to search, add in a recovery search by liberally scattering treats in the area.

As your dog becomes more proficient in searching, their confidence increases despite changes in the environment, and their recovery time from distractors or triggers decreases. Your dog learns they have a choice in movement, and they can rely on their own senses. 

Tips for Doing Scent Work

Ensure your dog has a choice at all times. They can choose what to eat and what not to eat. Do not point out every piece of food to them nor force or trick them into an area they missed. When setting up the course, be mindful that some dogs find certain scents aversive. If you direct your dog, they do not get the full benefits of scent work.

Make changes to the environment slowly. The addition of a single item can make or break a dog’s confidence; do not add too much change at once.

Keep it short. If your dog is struggling in the environment, remove your dog, change the environment, and then bring your dog back into the easier area. 

Let your dog work. Most of the time, it should be about your dog figuring it out for themselves. Be quiet and let them work. If they find a particularly difficult item, providing a jackpot of treats and praise is acceptable.

A black dog demonstrates his skills at a blue box

Images courtesy Barb Deg, RVT, CDBC, CPDT-KA, CSAT

Do not add fancy target scents for your dog to search. If you choose to use a specific non-food odor, ensure it is not offensive to your dog. The goal is decompression, not to create conflict. 

Incorporating synthetic animal scents can also be a fun variation if your dog does not find them offensive.

Most of all, observe and adjust to your dog’s needs. The idea is to encourage active sniffing, which may involve liberal treats in a small area with no distractions. Incorporating some form of scent work into your dog’s daily routine has benefits that transfer to all aspects of your dog’s life.

What is a Flirt Pole and How Do You Use it?

January 19, 2024 • Ask LSH Dogs I am a... Pet Owner Shelter Worker Trainer

By Christine D. Calder DVM DACVB

A photo of a pole with a long line and toy attached

Flirt pole. Image courtesy of Pat Koven LVT, KPA-CTP, LSHC-S, FFCP Elite

Q:  What is a flirt pole, and how do you use it?

A:  A flirt pole is a popular training tool for dogs, using a long pole or handle with a rope or string on one end and a lure or toy on the other. This tool is effective in engaging and exercising dogs and training them to modify certain behaviors, including leash reactivity, excessive jumping, and hyperexcitability.

When selecting a flirt pole, it is important to choose one that is sturdy and of appropriate length, usually around four to six feet, to maintain a safe distance from your dog. These poles are available for purchase, or one can be crafted using PVC tubing and a clothesline, with knots tied at both ends of the pipe to secure the clothesline in place.

The next step involves attaching a safe and durable toy, suitable for interactive play, and capable of withstanding your dog’s biting and pulling. Toys made from durable materials are often recommended for this purpose. Then, it’s time to find an appropriate place for flirt pole play. This space should be free of obstructions or hazards that could harm the dog. Ideally, a backyard or fenced-in area. If the activity takes place indoors, make sure there is enough space and consider using a smaller flirt pole. Introducing the flirt pole to your dog involves allowing them to sniff and investigate it without initiating play. This step is important for identifying and reducing any potential fear or anxiety your dog may have towards the new tool.

Once your dog is comfortable, begin interactive play by moving the toy in enticing ways, such as dragging it on the ground or making quick, darting movements. Encourage your dog to chase and catch the toy while you maintain control of the pole.

Incorporating behaviors, such as “sit,” “take it,” “drop it,” and “down” on a mat, is a valuable aspect of flirt pole play. This practice aids in the development of impulse control and offers opportunities to reinforce desired behaviors in the presence of distractions. It is important to monitor your dog’s intensity and duration of play. Since flirt pole play can be physically demanding, watching for signs of fatigue is essential, and providing breaks is necessary to prevent overexertion. The play should be stopped if your dog appears in pain or breathless.

Three dogs playing with flirt pole on a deck

Image courtesy of Pat Koven, BA, LVT, KPACTP

Always end the fun on a positive note. Ending while your dog is still engaged and excited helps create a positive association with the flirt pole and maintains their interest in the activity. Safety is important during flirt pole play. Avoid jerking or yanking motions to prevent straining your dog’s neck or causing injury. Close supervision is needed to make sure that they do not swallow or ingest any part of the toy. Prioritizing your dog’s safety ensures that the flirt pole remains a beneficial and enjoyable training tool.

When Excitement Causes Your Dog to Tinkle: Conflict (Submissive) and Excitement Urination

December 19, 2023 • CattleDog Publishing Newsletter Dogs I am a... Shelter Worker Student Trainer Veterinary Professional

By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB

A Rhodesian Ridgeback steps up on a log and the request of their handler

To minimize conflict and excitement, dogs can be taught to step-up on a platform or other surface for greetings. Image Courtesy Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB

Does your dog suddenly lose control of their bladder when you get home? Or when you lean over to pet them, or while greeting visitors? This behavior may be excitement or conflict urination.

Since any disease process that affects the kidneys and bladder, such as a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, or ectopic ureters, can make it difficult for some dogs to control their bladder, these conditions must be ruled out first. Bloodwork, diagnostic imaging (radiographs and ultrasound), and a urinalysis to look for infections, crystals, and urine concentration ability help determine if certain types of liver or endocrine diseases are playing a role in this behavior.

Once all medical causes have been ruled out, it is time to consider a primary behavioral cause, such as incomplete house training, conflict urination (submissive urination is the older term), or excitement elimination (urination). Each of these behaviors has a different cause but is treated in a similar fashion. Incomplete housetraining requires going back to the basics, while conflict and excitement urination will have a different management and treatment plan.

Regardless of the cause, punishment is often counterproductive and never the solution.

Conflict urination, motivated by both fear and anxiety, often results when your dog wants to interact with you but isn’t sure you are always safe. This conflict triggers spontaneous, non-conscious urination that can occur during greetings or other direct interactions with you. With this behavior, dogs often roll on their back (a conflict behavior) before urinating, while jumping or even standing in place. Regardless, your dog doesn’t feel safe if this type of urination occurs.

To keep your dog feeling safe during greetings, never reach for or loom over your dog. Avoid prolonged eye contact or speaking sternly. Never force your dog on their back or physically punish them in any way. Instead, greet your dog on their level and invite them into your personal space rather than invading theirs. Instead of reaching over their head, try scratching under their chin. Keep these interactions low-key and always use a calm, soothing, and gentle voice instead of a stern or high-pitched one.

The key to changing this behavior starts by making all greetings more predictable for your dog. Consistency and predictability are key. Change up greetings by teaching your dog to station on a waterproof mat or step up onto a platform. Asking your dog to pick up a toy or using a well-known cue like touch to earn a reward gives opportunities to redirect your dog easily but also encourages interactions in a less threatening, more dog-friendly manner.

Man standing on gravel road, holding Rhodesian Ridgeback by a leash

Touch is a versatile behavior that can be used for many things, including greetings. Image Courtesy of Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB

Unlike conflict urination, excitement urination tends to occur when your dog becomes overly enthusiastic during greetings. Punishment usually is not the cause of this behavior, and often, the urination occurs while the dog is wiggling in place or running towards you to say hello. This behavior has more to do with an overflowing bladder rather than a negative emotional state. To change this behavior, be sure to supply plenty of opportunities throughout the day for your dog to empty their bladder. This may mean asking for favors from friends and family members or hiring a dog walker to make sure your dog has plenty of opportunities to eliminate throughout the day.

The first step to reduce this behavior is changing your greeting ritual. The goal is to reduce overstimulation and excitement. Keep a jar of treats or a toy box handy near the door, and don’t ignore your dog. Ignoring can result in anxiety and frustration. Instead, toss a few treats or your dog’s favorite toys while you are walking through the door. Calmness is key, and playing games such as capture desirable behaviors helps teach your dog how to remain calm while building up a list of low-key behaviors that can be offered when greeting your dog.

Use a safe haven, which may be a room or an area behind a gate. Place your dog here before visitors arrive, but ensure they have plenty of time to eliminate beforehand.

Dog looking through gate

A gate can be used to manage your dog’s first access to visitors. Image Courtesy of Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB

Once your visitors enter the home and have settled, let your dog out for low-key greetings, including cueing touch, tossing treats, or fetch with a toy.  Conditioning relaxation on a mat helps your dog learn how to stay calm and relax around distractions, including visitors and in new environments.

Two dogs on mat indoors sleeping in the sun

Conditioning relaxation is one way to help your dog stay calm when visitors are in the home. Image Courtesy of Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB

Conflict and excitement urination can be frustrating, but it is important to remember that your dog isn’t doing this out of anger or spite. They just can’t consciously control their bladder. In the case of excitement urination, the good news is most will outgrow the behavior as they get older.

That usually isn’t the case with conflict urination. The most effective way to reduce this type of urination is to avoid punishment, encourage calmness, and change greeting rituals. If the behavior is not improving or spontaneously appears, seek help from your veterinarian. There may be an underlying medical reason why the behavior is not getting better.

The Alpha Roll

December 14, 2023 • Dogs General Information I am a... Reader Q&A Shelter Worker Trainer Veterinary Professional

By Pat Koven, BA, LVT, KPACTP

Cream and white border collie sitting on a platform with person holding an orange clicker next to them

Positive reinforcement leads to trust between you and your dog. Image Courtesy of Pat Koven. BA, LVT, KPACTP

Q: My trainer wants me to do an alpha roll with my dog during training sessions, but my dog struggles and gasps for air. How does this method help?

A: The alpha roll is a training method that is no longer recommended. It involves forcefully flipping a dog onto their back and holding them there. This approach was originally based on the alpha theory in dog training, which suggested that dominant dogs in a pack would flip subordinate ones onto their backs to establish dominance. However, this theory has been disproven by modern research. Studies that initially proposed this idea were conducted on wolves and do not apply to domestic dogs, as dogs do not naturally form packs in the same way.

There are significant risks associated with the alpha roll. It can cause physical harm to the dog, including injuries to the legs, spine, and internal organs. It can also create fear and stress in the dog, damaging the bond between the dog and their caregiver. Dogs may lose trust in their handler and bite in an attempt to defend themselves.

Moreover, this technique can lead to increased aggression in dogs. If a dog feels frightened and trapped, they may defend themself, potentially escalating to snapping and biting. The dogs become fearful of being touched, which can make ordinary activities, like putting on a leash, challenging or even dangerous.

The alpha roll is also ineffective in teaching dogs desired behaviors. It does not communicate what is expected of them and removes their sense of choice and control. Essentially, it teaches dogs to fear and mistrust humans. Instead, it is advisable to use positive reinforcement training methods.

These methods focus on rewarding good behavior, helping to build trust and confidence in the dog. They are also more humane and effective for teaching.

If you are unsure about your trainer’s methods, it is wise to consult with your veterinarian. Consider seeking a certified trainer who employs modern, science-based positive reinforcement techniques. For assistance in finding a qualified dog trainer or behavior professional, you can refer to resources such as CattleDog Publishing.

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