Most people who bring home a cat or a kitten expect a friendly cat who will quickly become a companion and lap baby. But sometimes the cat has a different idea. Some kitties are less than friendly, and others can be downright mean.
Actually, cats are extremely predictable animals who seldom do anything without a reason. If you can figure out the reason for your cat's behavior, you may be able to change it.
The first thing you should do is to take your mean cat to the vet for a check-up. He may have a painful condition like a bad tooth, or an ear infection that's causing him to be grouchy. Cats are very good at hiding signs of illness, so don't assume you'll notice if he's sick.
Cats are creatures of habit, and they're easily stressed if anything changes their routines. A new baby, someone moving into or out of the household, or even seeing another cat through the window can upset your feline friend. But most cats will respond to a fearful situation by hiding, not by attacking. Biting out of fear isn't a natural response for a cat.
Usually if a cat is aggressive, it's because he's playing. Kittens and young cats play pretty rough with each other. Playful biting and scratching are integral parts of cat behavior, but it shouldn't be part of your interaction with your kitten or cat. Kittens need to learn that people aren't playthings.
What About Petting-Induced Aggression?
Sometimes you'll be petting your cat when suddenly he seems to go crazy, swatting and biting at you, and maybe even rolling on his side so he can get you with all four razor-tipped feet. This behavior can be hard to understand, especially when the cat was asking to be petted. But usually there are some warning signs that you ignore at your peril:
- Your cat will narrow his eyes and lay his ears back.
- He may give your hand a sideways glance as you're petting him.
- He'll switch his tail from side to side.
Many cats with petting-induced aggression have learned to use aggressive behavior to get food, toys, or even a favorite napping spot from their owners.
Use Behavior Modification To Change Your Cat's Aggressive Behavior
Your cat needs to learn that he can't bite you or be aggressive towards you. It's up to you to teach your cat some manners by showing him that being petted is a privilege, not a right.
When your cat wants to be affectionate, call him into your lap and pet him with light strokes. Don't restrain him. After a short time, and before he starts showing signs of aggression, put him back on the floor and play with him or give him a treat or toy. Make each petting session a little longer before you put him down and play with him.
Watch his body language. If he starts giving you those furtive looks and begins to twitch his tail, end the session before he can bite you. If he does manage to bite or attack you, dump him off your lap and make him wait a while before you let him come back. He needs to get the message that you're in charge.
Your cat may never be a sweet, cuddly lap baby, but with time and patience, you can change your evil cat's ways.
Reference:
Darlene Norris - Darlene Norris is a cat-lover who has been owned by many kitties over the years. She was employed as an assistant manager at an animal ...
