Reply #22: I guess that does sound kind of harsh...

[badgerpup]

...but I do need to set boundaries on what kind of behavior will and will not be tolerated.
Things like getting up on the kitchen counter, scratching furniture (aside from the scratching post), snitching from my plate when I'm not looking, and sucking on inappropriate objects (or people, not just me) all fall under "unacceptable".
Believe me, he doesn't lack for praise, attention, pets and snuggles...I have a kitten graft except when he's eating, sleeping or wrestling with one of the older cats.

I DO realize you can't really punish a cat, not if you want good results and a loving trusting relationship...all you can do is re-direct their behavior into more acceptable channels.

I've had many cats over the years, and they've all trusted me utterly, so I must be doing something right.
I'm basing this fond belief on the fact that they allow me to give them icky pills and meds without struggling, or clip claws, or treat an abcess, or even...(gulp) a BATH!
The worst that happens with a bath is they'll cuss me out, and that's the end of it.
They're speaking to me again within half an hour, and there are no little 'presents' to deal with.
I'm damn lucky to have such a forgiving crew.

MacFeegle is the first cat I've had who displays sucking behavior. He's getting a pacifier for an early Christmas gift, methinks. :)