Aggressive Cat Behavior: Causes, Effects, And Possible Solutions

Anyone who loves cats will tell you that they are great pets. Many make this statement because of how much love cats show when they cuddle up with you and purr. Others may say that it is because of the way a cat carries itself. Unfortunately, there are cats that are aggressive and for many this gives cats a bad name, and if your cat has suddenly become aggressive this is something to get taken care of quickly.
There are different types of aggressive cat behavior. Pain Aggression is of immediate concern. If your cat has always been sweet and mild mannered and is now biting and scratching, you should take it to a vet right away. This aggressive cat behavior may be the only way he can tell you he is hurting.
By far, the most commonly seen aggressive cat behavior is play aggression. It usually is caused by the owner! Everybody loves to play with their pet, and the kitten owner is no exception. As the cat ages, it may not understand that aggressive playing can hurt you, or why you no longer wish to play with him. This behavior can frighten others and damage the cat's reputation. Declawing the cat doesn't address the root problem. The better way to handle play aggression is to provide toys to substitute for playing, and to startle a cat with a loud clap.
When a cat is backed into a corner, it is on the defense. Sometimes the cat may become violent when it's been over stimulated and can misbehave if it feels anxious or afraid. When something like this happens, it is the owner's job to recognize the warning signs of the cat so it can be safely removed from the situation. Every now and then, the aggression may be misplaced when a cat sees something through the window that upsets him; it may act aggressively towards you instead. If this happens, the cat may react with a growl or hiss and will most likely need a break.
Other types of aggressive cat behavior include maternal, dominance, and territorial. Cats with kittens are usually very protective of them, and it is up to the owner to respect the maternal instincts of the cat and not threaten the kittens. Dominance is much more complex, and often the only way to treat it is to ignore the cat until the behavior subsides. Territorial behavior must be stopped immediately by separating the cats into separate locations immediately. Make life boring for the cats and the behavior often will disappear.
Punishing a cat will never correct aggressive behavior. Getting help from a cat whisperer, or "feline therapist", if you can't handle the problem yourself, would prove more effective, especially when the problem appears to be a deep-seated one. Whisperers understand feline psychology and how to relate to those naughty kitties.

By: Paul Proctor

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Cats make wonderful pets, but some cats have a tendency to exhibit aggressive cat behavior. Playful aggression is common in cats, and may surprise bystanders, but is usually not a serious problem.