PETIGREE MAGAZINE Issue 1 | Page 25

A S K T H E E X P E R T S
Mat Ward BSc MVS CCAB
Mat is a Certificated Clinical Animal Behaviourist based in Edinburgh , Scotland . He holds a Master ’ s degree in animal behaviour and works with dog and cat owners to help solve behavioural issues every day .
Originally from New Zealand , Mat has trained animals for film and television , alongside his work with problem pets . Mat uses methods that improve the lives of both pet owners and their pets , rather than using pain , fear , or intimidation to superficially suppress undesirable behaviour .
www . petbehavioursorted . com
Q : My cat is very aggressive if I pet her when she does not want to , she makes sure she takes revenge either then or later . She attacks me a lot , what can I do ? Saeed , Abu Dhabi , UAE
Dear Saeed , Some cats are intolerant of the interactions that we as humans enjoy with our cats .
Petting and cuddling may be accepted for a period , but then irritation and frustration escalates and a cat may finally lash out .
Try to identify the types of interactions that your cat reacts to , and stop these types of contacts . If you notice a swishing tail stop petting her or playing with her . Start feeding her small special treats such as tiny pieces of chicken if she sits politely next to you .
Alternatively there is a chance that her behaviour is playful in nature , despite the fact it hurts or even injures you ! under a blanket . If she starts to behave aggressively , stand up and walk away .
Q : I have a 2-year-old boy . Which according to you would be the best pet for him ? Cristina S , Dubai
Dear Cristina , Research the species and breed that will fit in with your lifestyle . Select a pet who you will be able to provide with sufficient mental , social , and environmental stimulation .
Then get the animal when it is young , for example , a dog should be 7 weeks old , so it grows up with your son and is not intimidated by his toddler behaviour .
Make sure that if the animal looks anxious during some interactions with your boy you give them space or allow them to move away .
Want to ask Mat a question ? Email us at mail @ petigreemag . com
Set aside time for appropriate play with pieces of string , cat fishing-rod type toys , and moving an object
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