Aggressive Behavior in Kittens & Cats

Aggressive play behavior in kittens & cats is one very common issue that some pet owners have to deal with. There are many types of aggressive behavior in cats and each one was must dealt with as soon as it arises because any type of aggressive behavior in a cat or kitten poses a dangerous situation for everyone.

One very common type of kitten/cat aggression seen is play/predatory aggression. Rough and predatory behaviors are often displayed during playtime by kitens and older cats and this allows them to practice and develop skills needed for them to survive in the wild in packs. When this behavior is directed at humans or other animals, this becomes very dangerous situation. Sometimes we unintentionally encourage these behaviors through the way that we play with our pets while they are very young.But, as our pets grow older, their biting and scratching become more painful and severe even though they still believe it is just play time.

In other times, kittens act aggressively because of fear. If a kitten or older cat feels the need to protect itself, it will go on the defensive to ward off the perceived situtation in which they feel threatened. In many cases, behavioral therapy performed by a qualified animal trainer or behaviorist may be required depending upon the severity of the agression. Just make sure that the professional is fully qualified and has appropriate experience in this area because using someone who is under-experienced could seriously hinder your pet's treatment and can make the problem much worse and bigger than it was to begin with.

A kitten's aggression could be caused by stress and anxiety. Homeopathic products containing natural ingredients could help to calm your kitten/cat down.Other natural homeopathic products can also help regulate the nervous system to relieve the tension and anxiety.

The very first time your new kitten/cat shows aggression towards you during playtime is when you take the first step in letting them know who is boss and who runs the roost around there and it is not them! Any type of aggressive behavoir in a pet is unacceptable. When our pets bite, snap, nip and scratch only when they are playing with us and they show their teeth and growl, this is the time to nip this problem in the bud. There are some pets that show aggression to their owners even when they are being petted.

I remember one day when I was working at a veterinarians office as a technician, a woman came in and brought her 10 week old kitten in to start the vaccinations on him. The doctor began his examination and I was holding the kitten and within seconds of the exam this kitten, who was named "Precious" and this kitten was far from being precious, this kitten was hissing and scratching and trying to find anyway to bite me and the doctor. I eventually had to grab this cute kitten by the scruff of the neck and the veterinarian could just take a peek inside the mouth while this kitten was spitting and hissing the entire time. There was never a full exam done on this kitten. The doctor then told the owner that unless she gets control over this kitten now, that the older this kitten gets the worse this behavoir would be. During my 10 years working there this kitten grew more and more aggressive the older it became. The owner never did do anything to correct the situation and everytime that cat boarded with us it was not fun.

Sources:

Personal experience while working as a vet tech.

DISCLAIMER:

I am not a licensed vet but I did learn many useful tips and information during my years working for one. The above information is intended for educational purposes only and shall not take the place of seeking professional medical advice from a licensed veterinarian or other licensed pet professionals.