In the past, common wisdom was that domestic cats were not pack animals like dogs, but loners. Now, recent research has shown that to be a myth. Not only do domestic cats congregate, they also have a pecking order. There is an alpha cat - maybe even one at your house. How do you know if you have an alpha cat? Here are some clues:

* One cat dominates the others perhaps even physically attacking them although rarely with any damage

* The alpha cat walks with his tale up and held higher than the submissive cats

* The alpha cat tries to control you through verbal demands - like meowing loudly for food when he or she wants it, not when you are prepared to serve it

* The alpha cat accepts and even solicits petting but after a few minutes, when he is done, he may nip at you or even scratch you - he’s gotten what he needs now leave him alone

* An alpha cat is rebellious and does not take well to instruction or admonishments

* An alpha cat may attempt to move you in the direction he wants by nipping at your heels or toes. For example, my alpha cat tries to crawl under the bed covers to bite my toes in order to get me up in the middle of the night - his preferred feeding time

If you have an alpha cat, you need to practice being in charge by controlling the time and treats you providel. If your cat demands to be fed, ignore him for awhile until he is sitting quietly or walk away and then call him.

When he comes, offer a food treat. If your cat nips you, remove yourself or him and then wait awhile before getting together again - do it on your terms. If you would like to hear some more information about alpha cats, you can listen to this Moment of Science from Indiana University.

Posted by Barbara.