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Feline Aggression

Why Some Cats Behave Badly

Sep 14, 2008

Stress, poor socialization and other reasons why cats act out aggressively.

If you cat is displaying hostile behavior there are a number of possible reasons why he or she is acting out. Here is an overview of some of the reasons for feline aggression and how you can help your cat back to a healthy, calm state of mind.

Aggression Due to Illness

If you cat is behaving aggressively, it may be due to it being in physical pain. You kitty may not display any observable signs of poor health because cats are masters at hiding illnesses. Therefore it's a good idea to bring your cat to the vet and make sure that he or she is not suffering in silence.

Poor Socialization

If your cat is poorly socialized he or she may feel threatened when meeting new people, other animals or experiencing a change of environment. The unfamiliar is very intimidating to cats and raises their stress levels significantly. As a result your cat may act out by hissing, biting and scratching. The aggression in this case is merely a result of fear and the best remedy is to bring down your cat's stress levels by getting him or her back to a peaceful, stress-free environment.

Instead, over a period of several weeks, try to gently introduce your cat to its new environment. Begin first with visits of no more than a few minutes and then gradually increasing the duration until your cat is at ease.

Encountering an Unfamiliar Cat

Cats are territorial by nature. For this reason, encountering an unfamiliar cat can be very stressful, especially if your cat is poorly socialized. Be mindful of this when your cat runs in to a "stranger".

If you have adopted a new cat, do not present him to your other cats by placing them in the same room.
Keep them in separate rooms so that they can get accustomed to each other's scents.
Over a period of a couple of weeks, begin by spending a few minutes at a time in the same room.
You should hold your first cat and another person should hold the new cat.
Be seated during these short visits and stay relaxed at opposite ends of the room.
Gradually, as you increase the duration of the visits, decrease the distance between the cats.

Once they are able to be near one another without any hissing, growling or other aggressive outbursts, you can allow them to interact freely.

Misguided Playfulness

Cats are natural hunters and even indoor cats enjoy play hunting. However some cats overdo it! Once their instinct kicks in they get aggressive and the line between make-believe and reality gets blurred. There are a variety of different toys available at your local pet store that are ideal for cats with over-active imaginations. Pick up some cat toys that allow your cat to release the hunter within. If an aggessive cat has a toy that he or she can stalk, pounce and clobber then it's easier for your cat to get the aggression out of his or her system.