Aggressive behavior in cats is often the result of stress or anxiety.
When a cat feels uncomfortable or threatened, it may become aggressive to protect itself or its territory.
There are several reasons why a cat may show aggression towards people.
Pain or illness
If a cat is in pain, it becomes irritable and may scratch or bite. This is an instinctive response to pain.
Stress from a change of scenery
Cats are attached to their territory and do not like changes. Moving, the arrival of new people or animals can cause stress and aggression.
Violation of personal space
Many cats do not like being touched by strangers. This can lead to aggression.
Maternal instinct
A cat with kittens can be aggressive in protecting her offspring. It is better to stay away from her.
Game
Sometimes cats bite or scratch while playing. Although this is not aggression, but playful behavior, a person may mistake it for an attack.
The reason for aggression is individual for each cat. To avoid attacks, it is important to understand its body language, give it personal space and avoid painful points during contact. If aggression does not stop, it is worth contacting a veterinarian.
Often, aggression in cats occurs due to improper upbringing and the attitude of the owners. Here are the main mistakes of the owners that provoke aggression:
1. Physical punishment. Using physical force will only make the situation worse. The cat will fear and hate the owner.
2. Condoning aggressive behavior. If you ignore scratching or biting, your cat will decide that it is okay to behave this way.
3. Overstimulation. Frequent pestering, pulling of the tail and paws irritates the cat. It begins to defend itself.
4. Lack of personal space. The cat needs to be given "its" territory, where no one will enter.
5. Lack of hunting toys and treats. Without the opportunity to exercise hunting instincts, the cat loses its balance.
- Boredom. If a cat is lonely, it lacks communication and activity. Aggression is a way to relieve stress.
- Inappropriate communication. Shouting, sudden movements, direct eye contact are perceived as a threat.
To correct the situation, you need to eliminate stress factors, develop the cat's trust, and enrich its life. In case of prolonged aggression, it is better to contact a felinologist.
To avoid aggression from your cat, it is important to build the right interaction with it:
1. Respect the cat's personal space. Do not approach it while it is sleeping or eating.
2. Allow the cat to take the initiative in communication. Do not force physical contact.
3. Avoid sudden movements and loud sounds near the cat. This scares it.
4. Reward desired behavior instead of punishing unwanted behavior. Praise the cat for being calm.
5. Provide your cat with plenty of toys, treats and opportunities for activity.
6. Trim nails regularly to reduce the need to scratch.
7. Train your cat from childhood to communicate with people and other animals.
8. Do not play with the cat with your hands, use toys. This will help to avoid accidental bites and scratches.
The right approach and care will help to raise a loyal and calm pet from a cat. But in any case, it is worth respecting its instincts and needs.
Previously we explained why cats sleep at a person's feet.
