One of the best and most rewarding things about owning a new kitten or puppy is the tons of playtime that is had those first few months. As your new pet gets older play time will still take place, but there is nothing like those first few months when you are getting to know each other and everything is new. With all the fun though a little bit of discipline needs to be mixed in so that you new kitty doesn't grow up to be a mean old cat. Just like toddlers learning the rules of the house for the first time, new pets are constantly testing their boundaries and discovering what is appropriate and what can get them into some serious trouble. For pets if not taught early biting, chewing, and scratching can become a serious problem. So what should a new pet owner do when their loveable furry new pet turns into a biting machine? Well believe it or not Time Out works for both toddlers and pets.
The next time you are playing with your new puppy or kitten and the playing starts to turn rough, try this easy 1,2,3 step technique:
- Stop playtime immediately! Even if the pet persists stop participating in the fun.
- Ignore your pet. I know this sounds mean, but by leaving the room or turning your back on the animal you are adding consequence to their actions. Consider this the opposite of giving them a treat for following a command.
- Give it time. Don't just wait 20 seconds and then jump back in. Let enough time pass so that the animal realizes something occurred to change the situation and stop the fun. A couple of minutes should be plenty
Remember, just like everyone else pets need a certain amount of structure in their life in order to avoid getting hurt or hurting others. With a little consistency and some repetition soon your pet will be playing fair once again.