Feline Behaviorist Pam Johnson-Bennett is the author of a number of award-winning and critically acclaimed books, including Think Like a Cat and Psycho Kitty. The innovative methods described in all her books are based on Pam's unique way of training by actually understanding the way a cat thinks. She makes numerous television appearances including CNN, Fox News Channel, and National Geographic specials, as well as being a popular guest on many nationally syndicated radio programs. She is now considered to be one of the leading experts on feline behavior.

Q: My wife got me a cat for a Christmas present last year. Wagner is a very loyal cat. She loves me and sits and plays with me, but when my wife tries to show affection toward her, she runs away or jumps on the floor and just acts like my wife is the worst thing in the world. My wife has never been hostile toward her -- Wagner just likes me more. It appears that she likes men better than women. Can this be true? Can the cat be jealous of my wife? If so, what can I do to ease the tension between Wagner and my wife?

A: You didn't mention Wagner's age. If she was already an adult when you got her and a man had previously owned her, then yes, she may initially be more comfortable with you. It's not unusual for some cats to be more comfortable with people of the particular sex they're used to, but it's something that's easy to change.

Have your wife observe how you interact with Wagner. It will help if she can imitate the type of affection you show and the way you play. For example, maybe you give your cat more of a feeling of freedom (very important for a kitty!) when you hold her. Cats don't like to feel restrained while held. Initially, your wife shouldn't even attempt to hold Wagner. She should just work on trust-building while allowing Wagner to remain well within her comfort zone.

Play is one of the best ways to develop a bond with a kitty. Do interactive play sessions using a fishing pole-type toy and then hand the toy over to your wife to continue the game. Again, she should imitate the type of movements you make, so the cat will feel comfortable. Your wife should also be the one to feed Wagner, to help create a positive association. If Wagner is food-motivated, your wife can be the treat-giver as well.

I don't think it will be too long before Wagner starts warming up to your wife.