If you see your cat displaying any of these signs it is wise to steer clear. Move away from them slowly, leave them be and wait until they have calmed down.
If your cat shows the signs above occasionally it may be normal. But if your cat shows these signs frequently or their response seems out of proportion, they would benefit from a behavioural consultation and possibly medication. It is important to note that punishing cats for being aggressive will almost always make the situation worse.
Medical: A number of diseases can cause changes in behaviour. Pain is also a common reason for a cat to become aggressive. A full veterinary check-up is advised with all cases of aggression, sometimes along with a full blood panel and urine test. If a medical reason behind the aggression is found, the aggression may still occur after the cause has been treated. This is due to learned aggression and training is required.
Play aggression: More commonly seen in kittens and young cats, and is especially worse in cats raised without littermates. In this type of aggression cats will often stalk and pounce, then scratch and bite. Often these cats have no other outlet for play. It is important to provide a play aggressive cat with environmental enrichment – using food puzzles and giving them places to climb, scratch and hide. Also to play interactive games with your cat that does not involve the hands – such as a fishing pole toy.
Maternal Aggression: Aggression in response to people or other animals coming close to their young is common and time limited. Treatment is more about management as this will resolve once the kittens are weaned.
Territorial aggression: Most often occurs when a new cat is introduced into the household and is also seen in response to a feral cat entering their yard or territory. Introduction of a new cat to the household needs to be done calmly and gradually.
Solving aggression in cats involves changes to your cat’s environment and the way you handle your cat. If there is underlying anxiety (which is common), medications may be needed to help your cat to feel more relaxed in their surroundings. There are also natural alternatives we can use to reduce stress and anxiety in cats.
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