Aggressive Cat Behavior Can Be Fixed

by Paul Proctor

Those who love cats always say that cats are wonderful pets. They usually praise them for being loving, caring animals who are never short of affection. Others are drawn to cats for their personality. Unfortunately, some cats can act aggressively and be less lovable in the process. If a cat has developed sudden aggressive behavior, it is vital that you nip the problem in the bud and deal with it.

Of the various types of aggressive cat behavior, pain aggression simply cannot be ignored. A sudden change in demeanor from loving to biting should be taken very seriously. Take the cat to the vet at once. This type of aggressive cat behavior is a very likely sign that the cat is in pain and needs medical attention.

By far, the most commonly seen aggressive cat behavior is play aggression. It usually is caused by the owner! Everybody loves to play with their pet, and the kitten owner is no exception. As the cat ages, it may not understand that aggressive playing can hurt you, or why you no longer wish to play with him. This behavior can frighten others and damage the cat's reputation. Declawing the cat doesn't address the root problem. The better way to handle play aggression is to provide toys to substitute for playing, and to startle a cat with a loud clap.

When a cat is backed into a corner, it is on the defense. Sometimes the cat may become violent when it's been over stimulated and can misbehave if it feels anxious or afraid. When something like this happens, it is the owner's job to recognize the warning signs of the cat so it can be safely removed from the situation. Every now and then, the aggression may be misplaced when a cat sees something through the window that upsets him; it may act aggressively towards you instead. If this happens, the cat may react with a growl or hiss and will most likely need a break.

Aggressive cat behavior can come in one of three forms. Maternal behavioral issues surface when a cat has kittens and becomes overly protective. In this case, the only solution is to back off until the kittens are older. Dominance aggression is slightly trickier to deal with, and you must take your attention from the cat until his behavior changes. Territorial behavior leads to territory fights between two felines, whereupon the fighting cats must be separated. Removing all amusements and diversions will make an aggressive cat calm down, usually.

Punishment is never the answer for aggressive behavior. If you feel overwhelmed by your cat's behavior, or just need a little help with a specific persistent problem, you can seek help from a cat whisperer. Consulting a cat whisperer is similar to getting them a therapist. Cat whisperers have a good understanding of feline behavior and can be a great help. Many offer advice online, but for troublesome cases an in house visit may be necessary.

Any cat lover can tell you that cats make great pets. There is no better feeling then when your cat purrs and lovingly cuddles up against you. Others love the dignified way a cat carries itself. But if your cat becomes aggressive, it needs to be addressed immediately. There are various reasons for aggressive cat behavior, namely pain aggression, play aggression, over stimulated aggression, maternal aggression, territorial aggression, and dominance aggression. Punishing a cat will never correct aggressive behavior. Getting help from a cat whisperer can uncover the roots of your baffling cat behaviour and set you on the path to having your mild mannered kitty back again.

Published September 25th, 2007

Filed in Recreation