Animals’ behavioral offenses are a matter of the owner’s perspective. For some, these sudden bursts of aggressiveness can be upsetting, while it may seem normal and acceptable for others, all part of a game.
Though it may seem strange, some cats bite gently without warning because it’s a way to show their affection towards their owner, while others claw their way around.
But what lies beneath these strange aggression bursts cats sometimes exhibit?
A Matter Of Age
These sudden aggression bursts may appear in young kittens because of boredom, lack of stimulation, or hyperstimulation to release pent-up energy. While playing, the kitten is training its inside hunter and prey instinct.
Normal play sessions can become rough and the cat may begin stalking, digging its claws into the owner’s hand or feet, biting, or doing some “bunny kicking”.
These are perfectly normal ways for the young kitten to get to know its surroundings, test its (and your) limits, and expectations, and bond with others. The owner plays the main role in correcting these behavioral issues and setting healthy boundaries.
As the cats grow older and become prepubertal, they use this biting and claw-digging behavior to message that “it’s time to back off”.
Reproductive Status
Adult unneutered cats, both males and females, exhibit more offensive attitudes. Sex hormones play a role in this; the animal must fight back to ensure the species’ survival.
Intact male cats will fight with other males, to be able to spread their genes around. Domestic cats that don’t mate can become aggressive towards their owners when needed.
Pregnant cats and lactating females who exhibit an exacerbated maternal instinct tend to be more aggressive. This is considered an adaptive response to protect their offspring and to achieve reproductive success.
Besides the biting and clawing, the cat may be tempted to destroy stuff around the house, because of hormones kicking in.
Turf War
Cats, as we know, are highly territorial. That also includes your couch, if you didn’t know by now.
Any trespassers will suffer. For example, you may want to sit on your couch to watch some TV, and your cat thinks it’s the best time to sit in your lap. But, after petting it, the war begins!
As it may appear calm, the feline is, in fact, anxious and wants you gone as soon as possible. What seems like a loafing in your lap may end with it digging its claws and teeth in your arms and hands.
Cats can become violent to other cats (or even dogs) for the same reason. They sometimes hate sharing turf and would rather spend some quality alone time.
The No-Petting Time
Some cats may enjoy cuddling and being petted on their own terms. This means when they want, for as long as they want it.
At some point, you’ll wake up in the middle of an ambush attack that leaves you with scars. This may happen because the cat may feel vulnerable, overwhelmed, or even trapped.
Hunger Games
“Hey! Yes, I’m talking to you! I can see the bottom of my food bowl!”
Does it sound familiar? I bet the answer is “yes”.
Either to catch your attention or to calm down, a hungry cat can (and will) become aggressive.
Past mealtime, your cat may be more alert than ever. It gets aroused by any stimulus, knocking things down, seeming restless, in constant search of something, up to the point it simply explodes and starts acting around, all nervous.
Medical Explanation
Older cats that exhibit such aggressive outbursts raise question signs, apart from the “leave me alone” message.
Almost every time, these are linked to health conditions like psychomotor seizures, transient ischemic attacks, or other medical issues.
This behavior can be pain-induced, in cats with painful diseases like joint arthritis, renal disease, UTI, or neurological disease. Their attacks can be provoked by plain movement or touching the wrong way.
All diseases need detailed medical investigation because treatment differs from one pathology to another.
How To Deal With It
With kittens, things are quite simple. As the cat ages, these energy explosions will fade, because the cat becomes less playful and already knows its environment and family.
Intact females and males should be neutered, to calm down. This may also help with territorial issues.
Some cats are naturally aggressive and don’t like to be touched, while others who are more slow-tempered have these outbursts during normal behavior such as brushing, nail trimming, or petting.
Before engaging in any of these activities, you should help yourself by helping the kitty relax. You can use catnip toys or sprays as a helper, as a chill cat will be more malleable and open.
You’ll first need to learn body language, before dealing with cats reluctant to petting and grooming. By doing this, you’ll be able to avoid sudden attacks and you’ll know what’s the right moment the cat needs to be left alone.
Always teach your children and guests to properly socialize with the cat, thus avoiding unwanted accidents.
If you suspect there’s something wrong with your feline (because the aggressivity persists) and the animal seems anxious, scared, or not feeling alright, proceed to further medical investigation at a vet’s office.
