Identifying Types of Cat Aggression

Play Aggression

This is your cat’s outlet for the exploratory, investigative, and predatory behaviors your cat would have

practiced in the wild. It is characterized by chasing, crouching, pouncing, batting, and biting. You must work with your cat to make sure he is aware of what type of play aggression is acceptable. For example, discourage a young kitten to bite your hands or attack your feet because he will be more inclined to continue the behavior when he is larger and stronger. You must also make sure to provide the proper outlets for this play aggression. Be sure to play with your cat regularly in order to keep him appropriately exercised and keep a wide variety of toys around the house to keep him interested and stimulated.

“Stop Petting Me” Aggression

Cat body language is very subtle and, at times, difficult to detect, which is why owners often claim that their cat “suddenly” bit them while they were petting the cat. Little is known why cats who are enjoying petting abruptly find it unpleasant and bite. The best way to avoid this type of aggression is to watch carefully for the subtle signs your cat shows once he has had enough petting: tail twitching, ears turning back or flicking back and forth, general restlessness, and turning or moving his head toward your hand.

Do not attempt to correct this type of aggression with punishment, as it will likely worsen the aggression. Instead, offer your cat treats before he begins showing any signs of aggression as a form of positive reinforcement. Do your best to stop petting him before he begins showing signs of any aggression. Also be sure to pet your cat in gentle, long strokes as opposed to heavy, brisk strokes, which can quickly overstimulate your can and lead to “stop petting me” aggression.

Redirected Aggression

This type of aggression occurs when your cat has become overstimulated, be it by play, fear, pain, or anger, and redirects their energy onto something unrelated to the original stimulation. For example, if your cat begins to run away because something startled him and you attempt to grab him, it is likely that he will redirect his energy onto you in the form of a bite or scratch. The best thing for you to do is to make sure your cat is kept comfortable and has a variety of toys on which he can appropriately redirect his aggression.

Fear/Defensive Aggression

A fearful cat will likely be crouched down, ears turned to the side or flattened, pupils dilated, tail tucked, and possibly with body rolled slightly to the side. If you observe this type of behavior, your cat is likely fearful,

on the defensive, and may attack if bothered. Work with your cat to soothe whatever anxiety is causing him to be fearful. Use positive reinforcement to get your cat more comfortable in the situation. Offer more hiding places to keep your cat feeling more secure, and consider purchasing products designed to soothe cats such as

pheromone based products.

If you are having any persistent aggression problems with your cat, first seek at the advice of a veterinarian to make sure that the cause is not a medical issue. You are also encouraged to consult with Found Animals and your behaviorist. Never attempt to handle an aggressive or fearful cat, as cat bites and scratches are prone to infection. Never attempt to punish aggression as it will likely worsen it.