Aggression is a broad term ranging from hissing and growling
right up to a full blown attack. However this description doesn’t tell us
anything about what is motivating the cat to show aggression. In most cases
cats prefer to avoid conflict but if aroused sufficiently, things can escalate
and they can cause some very nasty injuries.
Causes of Aggression
1.Fear -
This is the most common motivator in all species. This is a natural defensive
behaviour, directed at a real or perceived threat.
2.Territorial
aggression – Because cats are solitary species they do not tolerate sharing
their territory with cats outside their social group. This can include cats
that share the same home especially those that they have not grown up with.
3.Re-directed
aggression – This type of aggression can be directed to owners. It occurs when
a cat cannot reach the target of its aggression and instead turns on to the
closest, most accessible target. A good example is if a resident cat sees an
unfamiliar cat in its garden and begins to feel angry, it may turn on its
housemate. These types of attack can be very unsettling for well bonded cats.
4.Play
aggression – This can be more common in poorly socialised cats, particularly if
they have not interacted with litter mates. These cats use lots of predatory
behaviours and pounce on moving targets – usually owners’ legs!
5.Low
threshold for petting – Many cats dislike too much petting especially in
sensitive areas such as the belly. Some individuals seem to have a low
threshold for physical attention so a hands off approach is best. Most cats
prefer petting to be of a short duration and focused around the head.
6.Predatory
aggression – This is similar to play aggression – the predatory drive is high
in these individuals.
7.Maternal
aggression – This natural behaviour is motivated by a queen protecting her
off-spring.
What are the Signs of Aggression?
Body
stiffening
Dilated
pupils (a wide staring pupil)
Vocalisation
– hissing, spitting and growling
Tail
twitching/swishing
Changes
to the positon of the ears
What Should I do if my Cat is Showing Aggression?
Do not handle your cat - No matter what the cause of aggression, it is important not to handle your cat whilst it is showing signs of feeling angry or stress.
Do not handle your cat - No matter what the cause of aggression, it is important not to handle your cat whilst it is showing signs of feeling angry or stress.
Never try
and physically break up a cat fight – you run the risk of getting some very
nasty injuries
Know what
the signs of aggression are to avoid injuries and prevent escalation
Do not
use punishment – This is counter-productive. Cats will only get more
emotionally aroused and bonds can be broken.
If safe to do so, use mild distraction techniques. For example rolling a ball with a bell across the room can divert a cat from pouncing on your legs before you move
If safe to do so, use mild distraction techniques. For example rolling a ball with a bell across the room can divert a cat from pouncing on your legs before you move
Identify
the underlying motivation for the aggression
Avoid
triggers for aggression – e.g. separate squabbling cats, use blinds and curtains
to block your cat seeing intruders
Avoid
using hands for any physical play
Provide
ample environmental enrichment as this has been shown to help reduce stress and
re-directs certain types of aggression
Be
sympathetic and try to understand what is causing the behaviour – cats really
don’t like conflict
Seek the
help of a suitably qualified feline behaviour counsellor
If you would like to learn more about feline behaviour I run
feline behaviour seminars throughout the year. For more information look at my
programme of events
I have a special interest in feline behaviour and can offer
counselling services in your home or through skype consultations