Feline Aggression Towards Humans
Feline Aggression Towards Humans
Feline aggression is the second most common problem seen by behaviorists, topped only by house soiling. When aggression is directed at humans it can be a frightening situation, especially when children are involved, who may be unable to read the warning signs and physical cues that can precede an attack. Cat bites and scratches are painful and can transmit disease or lead to infection.
There are a number of causes of feline aggression towards people:
Medical problems
Misdirection of predatory instinct
Fear
Frustration
Petting intolerance
Redirection or displacement
Finding the cause of the aggression is the only way to truly end the behavior. Due to the numerous causes, however, and the serious results related to feline aggression towards humans, the ideal route of treatment is to seek the assistance of a certified applied animal behaviorist.
General Principles These guidelines apply to all types and levels of aggression:
Intervene early in order to prevent your cat’s behavior from becoming a habit
Physical punishment of any kind can intensify your cat’s anxiety and fear and some may even see it as a challenge, both of which can increase aggression.
Environmental changes and behavior modification are necessary even when medication is advised.
Startling your cat without making physical contact once signs and physical cues of aggression are seen are indicated in reducing most aggression problems.
Avoid situations that increase your cat's aggression whenever possible.
Cats that have aggression issues should be separated and then reintroduced slowly.
Non-aggressive behavior can often be effectively rewarded using a favorite treat.
Medical Problems
First and foremost, have your cat examined by a veterinarian to rule out any medical reasons for the manifestation of aggression. Hyperthyroidism and central nervous system disorders, in addition to painful conditions such as dental disease and arthritis, can
Feline aggression is the second most common problem seen by behaviorists, topped only by house soiling. When aggression is directed at humans it can be a frightening situation, especially when children are involved, who may be unable to read the warning signs and physical cues that can precede an attack. Cat bites and scratches are painful and can transmit disease or lead to infection.
There are a number of causes of feline aggression towards people:
Medical problems
Misdirection of predatory instinct
Fear
Frustration
Petting intolerance
Redirection or displacement
Finding the cause of the aggression is the only way to truly end the behavior. Due to the numerous causes, however, and the serious results related to feline aggression towards humans, the ideal route of treatment is to seek the assistance of a certified applied animal behaviorist.
General Principles These guidelines apply to all types and levels of aggression:
Intervene early in order to prevent your cat’s behavior from becoming a habit
Physical punishment of any kind can intensify your cat’s anxiety and fear and some may even see it as a challenge, both of which can increase aggression.
Environmental changes and behavior modification are necessary even when medication is advised.
Startling your cat without making physical contact once signs and physical cues of aggression are seen are indicated in reducing most aggression problems.
Avoid situations that increase your cat's aggression whenever possible.
Cats that have aggression issues should be separated and then reintroduced slowly.
Non-aggressive behavior can often be effectively rewarded using a favorite treat.
Medical Problems
First and foremost, have your cat examined by a veterinarian to rule out any medical reasons for the manifestation of aggression. Hyperthyroidism and central nervous system disorders, in addition to painful conditions such as dental disease and arthritis, can