Stay on top of trimming their nails (unless you like shredded furniture). Every time you see your cat starting to claw something it's not supposed to, have a look at the claws as it's probably getting close to trimming time.
Cats CAN be taught, but it's a matter of a lot of consistency. If you don't want them on the kitchen table, you can't ever let them on there. Pick a method of punishment that's consistent, easy to apply, and obvious. A spray bottle on a tight aim works well. If you pick a unique bottle shape, you will only have to brandish the bottle at the cat after a little while.
Cats are oddly social creatures. Expect it to pick one or two humans and follow them around. If you are the only person around, it'll probably want to be in the same room with you (this comes into play when you want to sleep at night...) but it probably won't want to be in reach of you.
Cats are pretty awesome pets, all told.
|