How to Stop Aggression in Cats
Cats are well known for a largely laid-back, chilled out attitude. However, there are some instances where cats can become aggressive, either towards other animals in the
Don’t underestimate the force of your cat
Many people don’t seem to view aggressive cats
One of the main dangers of feline attacks is the risk of infection that wounds pose. Scratch-fever is the name given to one illness that can develop after a particularly nasty scratch from a cat, and can cause flu-like symptoms including fever. In severe cases of scratch-fever, a life-threatening whole-body infection can set in.
Why is your cat being aggressive?
In order to stop your cat being aggressive, it is essential to understand where that aggression stems from. Aggression may appear like a physical response, but it is actually caused by a psychological one. There are also different types of aggression.
Most animals use aggression primarily as a form of
Most pet owners agree that in almost all situations, cats behave aggressively because that they or something they value is threatened.
Types of aggressive behavior
There are several types of aggressive behavior that your kitty may exhibit. These include:
- Making noises: this could include hissing, growling or squealing, which are designed to warn potential threats to back off.
- Raising herself up on her paws with her back arched. This is an attempt for her to make herself look bigger and more frightening to the threat.
- Stalking back and forth, readying herself for action and letting the threat know that she is prepared and not leaving herself of what she is guarding open to attack.
- Scratching and biting. These are the two most physical responses you will see your cat exhibit if she feels threatened.
How to stop aggressive behavior in your cat
Stopping aggressive behavior is essential if you want your other pets and the humans in your home to feel safe and relaxed when your feline friend is around.
No sharing!
If you have other pets, one of the most important things to do is to ensure that your kitty has sufficient space to herself. Cats don’t like to share and so by adding more bedding areas, cat trees, litter boxes and feeding stations, your furbaby will be able to do the things she likes and needs to in the solitude that she likes, without being threatened by other household animals.
Don’t distract with treats
Avoid rewarding bad behavior. It can be very easy to try and distract an aggressive animal with a treat, but in actual
Increase play time
Sometimes cats are more prone to aggression because they haven’t exhausted all of their energy and don’t know any other way to get rid of it.
Reconditioning
Some owners choose to try and recondition their feline’s behavior using squirts of water or compressed air. While this has been shown to yield results, it does take time and a great deal of patience to achieve.
If your cat is starting to exhibit aggression on a regular basis, it is almost certainly time for some intervention. By following these guidelines and seeking the advice of our veterinarian, you, your cat and any other people or pets in your family can enjoy a much