Watch Understanding Cats

Understanding Cats is a television show from the Pets on Film series that aired in 1995. The show's focus is on cats and their behavior, and it is presented by Roger Tabor, who is a cat behaviorist and author. In the show, Tabor shares his knowledge and experience with cats and provides tips for cat owners to understand their pets better.

The show starts with Tabor talking about why cats are so popular among pet owners worldwide. He explains that cats are intelligent animals and that they make great pets because they are independent, low maintenance, and have unique personalities. Tabor then proceeds to discuss some common misconceptions about cats, such as that they are aloof and don't like human company, which he promptly dismisses as false. He points out that cats are affectionate animals that can form close bonds with their owners.

As the show progresses, Tabor demonstrates various aspects of cat behavior, including how cats communicate through body language, vocalizations, and scent marking. He also explains how cats perceive the world around them, including their sense of hearing, sight, and smell, and how this affects their behavior. Tabor emphasizes the importance of understanding cats from their perspective, rather than imposing human expectations on them.

Throughout the show, Tabor meets with different cat owners and their pets, showcasing the variety of behavior exhibited by the animals. He also interacts with different breeds of cats, pointing out their unique characteristics and behavior patterns. Tabor provides advice on how to handle common cat behavior issues, such as aggression, scratching, and litter box problems.

One memorable segment of the show is when Tabor visits a cat sanctuary where abandoned, abused or feral cats are taken care of. He expounds on how the treatment these cats receive affects their behavior, and how that behavior is manifested in different ways. He offers advice on how people can adopt and care for these cats, making them comfortable in their new homes.

Tabor emphasizes the importance of providing an enriching environment for cats, including the need for play, exercise, and mental stimulation. He offers some tips on how to provide these for cats, including the use of interactive toys, scratching posts, and feeding puzzles. Tabor also talks about the importance of maintaining a cat's diet and overall health, stressing the necessity of mental and physical stimulation for their well-being.

Towards the end of the show, Tabor summarizes the key takeaways for cat owners, most notably that cats are complex beings that require respect, love, and understanding, rather than human expectations. He emphasizes the importance of patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement in training and interacting with cats.

Overall, Understanding Cats is an informative and engaging show that provides valuable insights into cat behavior and care. Through the lens of a cat behaviorist's experience and knowledge, the show offers practical advice for cat owners, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves cats or wants to learn more about them.

Understanding Cats is a series that ran for 1 seasons (8 episodes) between September 29, 1995 and on Pets on Film