Aggressive cats: causes and solutions. If you are a Cat Owner, it is likely that you have already encountered aggressive behavior on the part of your feline. Aggressive cats can be a serious problem, both for humans and for other cats that live in the same environment. In this article, we'll discuss some of the causes of aggression in cats and offer some solutions to help you deal with this unwanted behavior.
Causes of aggression in cats
Cats can become aggressive for a variety of reasons, including:
history of mistreatment or rough play during childhood. Cats that were subjected to abuse or rough play as kittens can develop aggressive behavior towards humans.
Underlying medical conditions. Some medical conditions, such as chronic pain, may be associated with aggression in cats. It is important to have the cat examined by a veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues.
Stress. Cats can become stressed by changes in environment or routine, which can lead to aggressive behavior.
Conflicts with other cats. Cats can become aggressive towards each other for a variety of reasons, such as territorial disputes, fear or changes in the family group.
Solutions for dealing with aggression in cats
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help solve the problem of our temperamental furry friends. Here are some suggestions:
Environmental enrichment. Provide your cat with toys and games that stimulate its natural hunting instinct and expend its energy. This can reduce stress and aggression.
Separate the aggressor and the attacked. If you have multiple cats at home, consider separating them into different spaces. This can help avoid conflict and allow each cat its own space.
Add more toys and hiding places. Provide plenty of toys and climbing areas so each cat has its own play space. This can also help to avoid toy disputes.
Avoid rewarding aggressive behavior. Do not reward or pet a cat that is exhibiting aggressive behavior. Instead, try to distract him with a toy or throwing an object away.
Expose the cat to controlled situations. Gradually introduce the cat to situations that may provoke aggression, but maintain control of the situation. This can help desensitize you to the cause of the aggression.