Preventing Pet Behavior Problems

•  Set rules immediately and stick to them.

•  Avoid situations that promote inappropriate behavior.

•  Observe the pet and provide what it needs to be cared for and attended to.

•  Supervise the new pet diligently through undivided individual attention and training, and restrict the pet's access to a limited area of the house until training is complete.

•  Encourage good behavior with praise and attention.

•  Correct bad behaviors by providing positive alternatives. (A toy for a slipper, scratching post for the sofa.)

•  Never physically punish or force compliance to commands. This may lead to fear biting or aggression.

•  Don't play rough or encourage aggression or play biting.

•  Expose pets to people, animals, and environments where you want them to live.

•  See your veterinarian if serious or unresolved behavior problems
exist.

Litterbox Training an Exotic Pet

Litterbox training a hedgehog, rabbit, ferret, or any exotic pet is easy. For most of these exotic pets, simply placing an appropriate container with one to three inches of nonclumping litter in the cage is enough. Their natural instincts take over and suddenly the litterbox is the only place they are eliminating. It can make cleaning the cage and controlling odor much easier.

If your exotic pet doesn't seem interested at first, you can put just a couple small drops of ammonia in the litter. The smell attracts them and triggers the appropriate response.

An appropriate container is indestructible, water resistant, and won't break, tear, splinter if chewed. Sturdy plastic storage containers work well and are easily cleaned. Be sure the container is large enough for your exotic pet to move around in and is cleaned at least every other day.