Lifestyle

What cat owners get all wrong about their pets

We may think we know our furry feline friends, but they’re often misunderstood, says anthrozoologist John Bradshaw, author of the new book “Cat Sense: How the New Feline Science Can Make You a Better Friend to Your Pet.”

“There are a lot of people who really don’t get [cats],” Bradshaw says. He talked with The Post about some common mistakes cat owners make with their pets:

Not training Fluffy
Cats may seem independent, but they can be trained. “They’re very smart animals,” says Bradshaw. Instead of getting into scratching fights with your pet when it’s time to visit the vet, train them to like their travel carrier using food rewards and playing to their natural instincts. “Cats love to get into cardboard boxes. They love to feel enclosed,” the author explains. “Get [out] the carrier in advance and use food treats … let the cat walk in and out so that the animal associates it with different things,” not just going to the vet.

Not completely listening to “meow”
Fido’s not the only one trying to tell you something. Some cats will develop as many as 10 distinct meows to communicate messages like, “Give me food” or “Open the door.” “Cats don’t generally meow with each other,” Bradshaw explains. “Humans [inadvertently] train them to meow … cats have learned that they get what they want if they use different sounds.”

Assuming Fluffy doesn’t have feelings
Felines are known for their inexpressive faces and aloof personalities, yet they’re not such cold creatures. “A lot of people talk about cats as if they have no emotions,” says Bradshaw. But new studies show cats have the mental faculties to have many of the same emotions humans feel.

Not noticing a stressed-out kitty
Naptime can reveal a feline’s true feelings. “Cats that are tense and nervous will sleep with their paws out,” as if ready to pounce,” Bradshaw says. Relaxed cats “sleep with their paws tucked.”

Feeling flattered by a purr
While purring can be used to communicate affection, cats don’t just purr to say, “I love you.” “There is a version of the purr that some cats use to demand food,” Bradshaw says. “There is a purr which comes when the cat is in distress.” That variety, which is still being studied, is often heard at the vet when cats are sick.

Buying toys that are indestructible
“Cats like toys that fall apart because, in their heads, they actually think they’re hunting,” says Bradshaw. The most fun toys for kitty are those that can be torn apart and destroyed, like an actual prey would be. But Bradshaw cautions that such playthings, like a fake birdie with feathers that can be pulled out, can be dangerous and require supervision. Owners should watch that cats don’t swallow any tiny parts while playing.