Aggressive behavior ranks only second in the TOP 5 ranking of cat problems. In the first place is uncleanliness. However, scientists say that these two types of behavior are very interconnected. Indeed, cats that show aggression are often also unclean.
Out of a hundred problem cats, 25 show aggression in various forms. Therefore, let’s look at why the cat became aggressive, what aggression is like, and how to establish contact with an animal that constantly growls, lunges, bites and scratches.
INTERESTING! American veterinarians strictly control the spread of cat aggression and consider this a measure to protect public health and a manifestation of a humane attitude towards cats.
Play aggression
A kitten or young cat can behave very rudely during play: scratching, biting, hunting for a person and attacking from an ambush.
Do not encourage your pet's aggressive behavior / bandofcats.com
The reason is that the animal simply does not know how to control itself. Cats typically learn to communicate when they grow up with their peers. This is how they learn that aggression can be met with a mirror response or the fun will end. But those kittens that were taken from their mother before the age of three months did not have time to acquire social skills. Therefore, they can play very harshly and simply do not understand that such behavior is unacceptable.
According to researchers of Common feline problem behaviors: Owner-directed aggression, the only pets that never go for walks and those whose owners prefer rather rough games can also show aggression. Such predatory habits are also typical for some breeds in general, for example, Bengal cats.
What to do about it
First, determine if there is a pattern when aggression occurs. For example, an animal hides under a bed when preparing to jump. To prevent an attack, distract your furry with a game or simply block access to ambush areas. An ordinary bell on the collar can tell you where the pet is.
Also try to switch your cat's attention to different toys. But do not expose your hands to scratching and biting: the animal may perceive this as a general game, which will provoke new aggression.
Don't punish your cat: sometimes this causes fear of people. If you see an animal showing play aggression, simply ignore it and walk away. This way the pet will understand that his actions do not lead to a common game.
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The role of character: why some cats attack more often
Now that we've looked at the main reasons cats attack, it's worth noting that a lot depends on the cat's personality.
Some cats are more likely to attack people, pets, or both. These cats tend to be tense and afraid of a lot of things deep down. However, instead of hiding—like shy cats do—they tend to bite or scratch people and pets around them.
Other cats are particularly relaxed and calm. These cats almost never attack anyone - even when faced with a new cat in their home or another stressful situation. These are cats that make excellent furry therapists, able to cope with stress in new places and situations while always remaining friendly.
Most cats are somewhere in the middle. They are not usually aggressive, but will lash out if threatened.
Aggression as a manifestation of fear
In certain situations, your pet feels cornered and defends itself if there is no way to escape. This often happens when a cat encounters an unfamiliar animal, person, or even noise. Although sometimes the owners can be frightening.
Another possible situation is events associated with less than pleasant experiences, such as a visit to the veterinarian.
During aggression, which is caused by fear, the cat tries to protect itself / webmd.com
This problem also occurs in animals that are not accustomed to people since childhood or are regularly subjected to physical punishment.
What to do about it
In such a situation, it is better to leave the pet alone for a while and give it the opportunity to come to its senses. It is important not to show fear. This behavior will only intensify if the cat realizes that you have retreated.
You should not reassure your pet; this may be perceived as encouragement. Lack of attention is the best way to deal with aggression caused by fear.
Take note
