Cat Aggression
Defensive aggression, like hissing, happens when cats feel threatened. Pushy cats want their way. They'll challenge other cats over territory with offensive aggression. Proper pet introductions can smooth out these interactions. High-energy kittens indulge in rough play aggression. Some cats learn to use biting to stop unwanted grooming or petting.
Stress increases cat aggression, and so does discomfort from illness or pain. Cats usually bluff with posturing and lots of noise long before they attack, so recognizing this so-called bad cat behavior lets you avoid dangerous situations. Cat bites or attacks, though, call for professional behavioral help. Here are ways to recognize cat aggression problems and diffuse the angst:
- Watch the ears and tails. Cats turn their ears sideways like airplane wings and thump their tails to say "stop the petting." Respect their cues.
- A hiss warns; a growl threatens. Back away from threatening cats and avoid eye contact. Instead, toss treats or toys to lure your cat away from doorways, so you can pass without risking a swat. Give them space to cool down.
- Cats control territory with stares. Provide extra litter boxes and cat trees. They can't guard everything at once.
- Diffuse play aggression with entertaining toys and exercise. Try pheromone products to encourage calm.
- If your cat bites, seek a cat behavior professional.
House Soiling
Hit-or-miss litter box behavior tops the list for cat behavior problems. Besides eliminating, cats use urine to calm themselves with self-scent. They also mark territory by spraying. Stress can increase the urge to mark. Luckily, neutering before sexual maturity stops spraying in up to 90% of cats.
Here are the top reasons cats go outside the litter box and what you can do:
- The litter box is too small. Cats need room to maneuver, so get jumbo-size boxes.
- The litter box is dirty. Scoop religiously. Cats also want one box for solids and another for liquids. Add another!
- One bully cat doesn't want to share. If you have multiple cats, position boxes on different sides of the house or on separate floors.
- Your cat is stressed. Sprinkling urine calms cats down. A new work schedule, new pets or humans, a vacation or rearranging furniture can ramp up cat stress. Learn to recognize stress and calm your cat. Create a routine and stick to it as much as possible.
- Your cat has a medical condition. Cats with constipation or cystitis (inflamed bladder) may blame the box for their discomfort. Arthritic cats find other places to go when climbing into boxes hurts. A new box without painful associations can help. Consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
You can't change instinct, and deterrents won't work without a better alternative. Redirecting cats to more appropriate outlets solves many cat behavior problems, saving your furniture and your sanity.