Aggressive Cat Behavior: How To Respond
Nothing spoils your expectations of a happy relationship with a cuddly kitty than the problem of aggressive cat behavior. A cat scratch or bite can be more than just painful at the time. Cats have a considerable amount of bacteria on their claws and especially in their mouths and these injuries can easily become infected.
Aggressive cat behavior can be very troubling, but by focusing on the causes of the behavior, it is possible to prevent escalating aggression. You can begin while cats are still quite young, as long as you try to understand the instincts your cat possesses and the psychology behind their behavior.
Kittens will naturally exhibit some degree of aggressive behavior since it is instinct for them to stalk and capture prey. However, it’s important for the new pet owner to teach the kitty appropriate behavior. The kitten needs strict limits for his behavior and substitutes he can use to vent his aggression. Your first thought may be “How cute!” when your kitten viciously attacks you with little bites and claws. At this point you have to think of the future and tell your kitty a forceful “No!” What is cute now won’t be so cute when kitty has grown to adulthood.
To create a good relationship with your feline, cat or kitten, create an inviting environment. Toys and furniture meant for cats, like scratching posts allow for aggressive play and sharpening and filing of claws. In this aggressive play, it is important to be clear biting and clawing are not acceptable. This good play can be reinforced with treats and words much better than punishment, especially hitting which can destroy the relationship and increase aggression.
A cat that is ill or stressed out is unable to tell you in words, so he may display aggressive behavior to get your attention. If you pet begins showing aggression you haven’t seen before, be sure to take him to the vet immediately to have it checked out. A pet can become stressed by such things as changes in your household or his diet, loud noises, or having a new pet invading his territory. If you can, introduce your kitty to changes gradually in order to reduce his stress. Lower stress levels should result in less aggressive behavior.
Aggressive cat behavior may also be caused by the feline’s diet. An obese older cat may have joint pain. Significant weight loss could improve both its mood and its health. Consultation with a veterinarian is critical, however, for the weight reduction must be gradual. If it occurs too rapidly the cat’s health may be compromised. Your pet could even die.
A cat’s posture show you a lot about its mood. When they have a little too much attention, it is common for a cat to quickly become aggressive. This often happens when a cat is purring during a session of petting, then quickly nips the person they were just purring to. Lashing tails, rigid and tense bodies, and ears flattened back are universal signs in the cat’s world. They say “I’ve had enough for now, give me some space!” By watching for these cues while you are praising good behavior, and modifying behavior early in life, it is easy to have a happy and peaceful cat.
Any plans for happily ever after with your new feline friend are quickly ruined by aggressive cat behavior. If you are victim to a cat scratch, clawing, or biting, it can be more than a temporary ailment. If you do not clean and dress the wound, it might easily become invaded by bacteria and infection. Unusual feline aggression may often be contributed to the cats health. Without the ability to communicate many cats will use aggression as a signal that they are ill or have been injured. Stress can be caused by changes in the cats diet.
- Paul Proctor