Cat aggression: it can be frightening. Your sweet, beloved pet is suddenly transformed into a hissing, scratching, biting demon. In this article we explore the issue of feline aggression, focusing on the five most common causes. We also explore some simple ways you can minimize and eliminate cat behavior problems such as aggression.

It is not surprising to see aggression in cats. Most frequently you will observe cats displaying play aggression. During play aggression, you would notice your kitty using their claws or teeth to play roughly. You could easily mistake this for aggression directed to you. In reality, your cat is confusing you for a toy. One way of handling this is to always play with a toy and not your hand.

A related problem is over-stimulation, in which your cat lashes out at you because she has had a bit too much excitement. To deal with over-stimulation, simply withdraw from playtime and leave the room. You might also need to isolate kitty in a room of her own if she is severely aggressive. Once she calms down, her cat behavior problems should cease and she will return to normal.

As a new cat begins feeling comfortable in your home, she naturally comes to see everything and everybody in the home as belonging to her. Territorial aggression towards new people or other animals entering the home is normal, but can become a problem. To lessen your cat's unease and aggressive tendencies, introduce new people and animals slowly through a "getting to know you" phase. Offering kitty treats during this time can also help.

Sometimes your cat might turn his frustrated anger towards you even though you aren't really the target of his anger. This is a case of redirected aggression, and is just another one of the strange cat behavior problems owners encounter. If your cat sees another cat through the window and isn't able to take out the aggression he feels on that cat, he'll direct it back on you. This problem can be easily alleviated by putting shades on your windows which don't allow your cat to look outside.

Finally, we should mention that some cats can become aggressive due to health problems. Any condition that causes pain, such as a bladder infection, abscess, or stomach problem, can lead to aggression because kitty cannot tell you what is wrong. If you are dealing with aggressive cats, pay a visit to your vet before trying behavior modification, and you might find a simple way to achieve cat control.

Cats' frequently show playful aggression. Cats play roughly with their teeth and claws. Toys for the cat will keep your cat from sharpening its claws on you. An excited cat can cause other cat behavior problems. Leaving the room will often help him calm down. Most cats exhibit territorial aggression. Any new person entering a cat's home is likely to be subjected to it. Slowly introduce the cat to new people. Cats become aggressive due to health problems. Painful conditions can lead to aggression. If you are dealing with aggressive cats, visit your vet before trying behavior modification. You might find a simple way to achieve cat control.