Aggression in Cats – Causes, Signs and Solutions

• Play Aggression
• Petting Aggression
• Fear Induced Aggression
• Territorial Aggression
• Redirected Aggression
• Pain-Induced Aggression
• Maternal Aggression

Play Aggression

Play aggression in cats is a common behavior especially in kittens and young that occurs as they learn and practice their hunting skills.

It’s often mistaken for genuine aggression, but it’s important to note that this is a normal part of a cat’s development and socialization process.

The Signs

Typical behaviors of play aggression include stalking, biting and playful biting – the latter is usually soft and inhibited.

Swatting, kicking and chasing are also potential signs of aggressive behavior.

Potential Triggers

• Presence of Moving Objects that Stimulate Predatory Instincts
• Boredom
• Lack of Socialization

Petting Aggression

Petting aggression is also common among our feline friends and can occur when you stroke or pet your cat.

Given that cats tend to purr during a petting session, a lot of owners are rather surprised when their beloved lashes out all of a sudden.

Biting, scratching, swatting and pushing with the hind legs are typical signs of petting aggression.

The Signs

Dilated pupils, flattened ears,  skin twitching and swishing tails are all potential signs that your cat might be growing tired of your attentions.

Potential Triggers

• Overstimulation
• Discomfort in Specific Area of Body
• Hyperesthesia

Fear Induced Aggression

Fear is a fundamental emotion that plays a significant role in cat aggression.

It can be traced back to their wild origins when reacting quickly to perceived threats was essential for survival.

Despite their domestication, cats will still exhibit fear aggression when they feel threatened or cornered and it usually follows a specific pattern.

The Signs

The cat initially attempts to escape or avoid the threat.

If unable to do so, the cat may resort to defensive postures, such as arching the back, puffing up the fur to appear larger, and hissing or growling.

If these warnings are ignored or the threat persists, the cat might attack, using claws and teeth in an attempt to create an opportunity for escape.

Potential Triggers

• Unfamiliar Environment
• Loud Noises
• New People or Pets
• Unpredictable or Rough Handling
• Traumatic Events
• Sudden Movements

Territorial Aggression

Territorial aggression in cats stems from the need to defend an area from intruders and secure resources for survival.

Domestic cats are not so different from their wild ancestors in this regard and they can show territorial behaviors over the space they perceive as their own.

The Signs

In a typical territorial dispute, a cat may mark its territory through scent marking, which includes spraying urine, rubbing their cheeks, or scratching objects.

If these warnings are not heeded, the cat might resort to aggressive behaviors such as an attack, growling, biting or scratching. This is often preceded by back-arching.

Potential Triggers

• Introduction of a New Cat/Person
• Outdoor Cats Entering Home of Resident Cat
• Changes in Environment
• Limited Shared Resources

Redirected Aggression

Redirected aggression in cats is a phenomenon where the cat, aroused by one stimulus, directs its aggressive behavior towards another individual or animal.

Essentially, it’s a misdirection of the cat’s arousal or aggression when the original source of their agitation is inaccessible or too intimidating to confront directly.

In a typical scenario of redirected aggression, a cat might witness another animal outside through a window, become highly aroused, but unable to act directly upon the source of its agitation.

If another animal or person approaches the cat in this heightened state, the cat might redirect its aggression towards them instead.

The Signs

Common manifestations of redirected aggression include swatting, biting or scratching, growling and hissing.

Potential Triggers

• Seeing Another Cat or Animal Outside
• Loud Noises
• Smelling Another Cat on a Person or Pet
• Pain

Pain-Induced Aggression

Cats are adept at concealing signs of discomfort or illness.

This can be traced back to their instincts for survival in the wild – a place where any sign of weakness or injury could be exploited by a predator or rival.

The Signs

In felines, aggression induced by discomfort or pain often presents itself in several identifiable ways. One of the most common is a reaction to physical contact.

A cat might react by biting or scratching if someone touches an area that is causing it discomfort.

Hissing or growling, especially when being handled or approached, could also indicate that the cat is in pain.

In some instances, a cat might exhibit aggression without any clear provocation. This is particularly likely if the animal is experiencing chronic or severe discomfort.

Additionally, a cat might excessively groom or lick a specific area that’s causing discomfort.

If you suspect that your cat is experiencing pain or discomfort, you’ll need to contact a vet.

Potential Triggers

• Touching or Handling
• Movement or Mobility
• Litter Box Usage
• Feeding Time
• Grooming
• Chronic Illness

Maternal Aggression

Maternal aggression is a protective behavior that’s commonly displayed by queens, usually following the birth of their kittens.

This type of aggression is instinctual and is meant to safeguard their young from perceived threats.

It’s also completely normal and should not be discouraged.

The Signs

Signs of maternal aggression can range from subtle to more overt behaviors and can include hissing, growling, swatting or biting.

The queen may also position herself protectively, shielding them from potential harm.

Potential Triggers

• Approach by Owners or Strangers
• Presence of Other Pets
• Disturbance in the Nesting Area
• Handling of Kittens

How to Respond to Aggressive Feline Behavior

Addressing feline aggression requires understanding, patience and often, professional advice.

As we’ve discussed, aggression is usually a response to fear, stress or discomfort, so it’s crucial to manage these underlying issues.

When you notice signs of aggression in your cat, here’s how you should respond.

Stay Calm – Avoid raising your voice or making sudden movements. This could further startle or stress your cat.

Give Space – Never try to pick up or physically restrain an aggressive cat. Allow them space to calm down.

Remove the Trigger – If you can identify what is causing the aggression – whether it’s a certain person, another pet, or even a toy – try to remove it from the cat’s environment.

Redirect Attention – Use toys or treats to distract the cat from the source of their aggression. However, make sure not to reward aggressive behavior.

Consult a Professional – If the aggression persists, it may be best to seek professional help.

A veterinarian can rule out medical issues that might be causing the aggression, and a certified cat behavior consultant can provide strategies for managing the behavior.

Managing Aggression in Cats

So what are solutions and how do you manage aggression in cats. Let’s now take a look at some of the methods that can help alleviate this behavior in certain instances.

Behavioral Training

Behavioral training focuses on modifying the cat’s reactions to specific triggers, encouraging positive behaviors and reducing stress or fear responses.

One of the common techniques is positive reinforcement, where good behavior is immediately rewarded.

This is done through treats, praises or petting, based on what the cat prefers.

Over time, the cat begins to associate positive behaviors with these rewards, encouraging her to repeat these behaviors.

For instance, if a cat tends to be aggressive during grooming or vet visits, positive reinforcement can be used to create a more positive association.

Start by rewarding the cat for calm behaviors during less invasive handling, and gradually increase the handling intensity over time as the cat becomes more comfortable.

Counter-Conditioning

Another technique is counter-conditioning, in which the cat’s emotional response to a trigger is changed.

For example, if a cat reacts aggressively to strangers, counter-conditioning might involve having strangers give the cat their favorite treats.

This helps the cat to associate strangers with positive experiences.

Desensitization

The desensitization technique entails a step-by-step introduction of the cat to a triggering factor in a well-regulated manner.

The process begins with a mild version of the trigger and is progressively intensified while ensuring the cat’s composure.

This can be beneficial when dealing with a cat displaying aggression towards other pets. Initially, the pets may be kept in distinct spaces.

Over time, they’re allowed to smell each other from beneath a door, then through a partition of some sort and finally share the same space.

It’s paramount throughout this transition to preserve a serene and positive atmosphere.

Behavior training requires time and patience. The pace should always be dictated by the cat’s comfort level.

If aggression continues or increases despite attempts at behavior modification, it’s best to consult with a professional such as a veterinary behaviorist or certified cat behavior consultant.

Environmental Modifications

Environmental modification is the easiest method for owners trying to manage aggression in their cat.

The aim is to create a living space that caters to a cat’s natural needs and behaviors, reducing the likelihood of stress and aggression brought about by territorial disputes.

Provide Sufficient Resources

One effective modification is providing enough resources. This can help in managing aggression in multi-cat households.

These resources include food and water bowls, litter boxes, and resting spaces.

By ensuring each cat has its own resources, you can reduce competition and potential conflict.

In addition, providing vertical spaces such as cat towers or shelves can be beneficial.

Provide Toys and Puzzle Feeders

Interactive toys and puzzle feeders can also help by providing mental stimulation, reducing boredom and associated aggression.

Regular play sessions using toys that simulate hunting can help channel a cat’s natural aggressive tendencies in a positive way.

Provide Safe Places

Cats often feel safer and less stressed when they have the option to be high up, away from potential threats.

These spaces also serve as an extra territory for cats to claim, reducing territorial confrontations.

Medical Solutions

If you suspect that your cat’s aggression is being caused by discomfort or pain, you’ll need to consult with a vet.

References and Further Reading

ASPCA – Aggression in Cats
Battersea – How to Calm and Aggressive Cat
Cornell University – Feline Behavior Problems Aggression
iCatCare – Aggression to Humans