Why cats can be aggressive: Know more about your pets

02.12.2023 01:40
Updated: 13.05.2024 21:22

Cats can have different personalities, just like people - so you never know what type of cat you have until it becomes an adult.

Meanwhile, some cats can be quite aggressive and unfriendly, and it's not always easy to understand why they tend to behave this way.

Here are a few popular reasons for cats' aggression.

Fear

Cats can get scared easily, and when they feel threatened or frightened, they might act aggressively to protect themselves.

Pain or Discomfort

If a cat is in pain or feels unwell, it might become aggressive. Pain can make them more sensitive and defensive.

cat
Photo:Pixabay

Territorial Behavior

Cats are territorial animals, and if they feel their space is invaded by another cat or even a person, they might act aggressively to defend their territory.

Stress or Anxiety

Changes in the environment, like moving to a new home or introducing new pets, can make a cat anxious. 

Aggression may be their way of expressing stress.

Play Aggression

Sometimes, during play, cats can get too excited and play aggressively. They may bite or scratch unintentionally.

Maternal Instinct

Mother cats can become protective and aggressive if they feel their kittens are threatened. This behavior is a natural instinct to keep their babies safe.

Lack of Socialization

Cats that haven't been properly socialized with humans or other animals when they were young may be more prone to aggressive behavior.

Redirected Aggression

If a cat is agitated by something it can't reach, it might redirect its aggression toward whoever is nearby, even if that person wasn't involved in the initial cause.

Medical Issues

Sometimes, health problems like dental pain or hormonal imbalances can lead to aggression. It's crucial to rule out any underlying medical issues.

Miscommunication

Cats communicate differently than humans, and sometimes what seems like aggression is their way of expressing discomfort or confusion.
 

Kate Yakimchuk Author: Kate Yakimchuk Editor internet resource


Content
  1. Fear
  2. Pain or Discomfort
  3. Territorial Behavior
  4. Stress or Anxiety
  5. Play Aggression
  6. Maternal Instinct
  7. Lack of Socialization
  8. Redirected Aggression
  9. Medical Issues
  10. Miscommunication