It is important to clarify that not all pawing that cats give is due to aggressive behavior that should worry us. All cat companions suffer accidental scratches while they play.

There are several reasons that can explain abnormally violent behavior that occurs inadvertently. If the animal is constantly in «attack mode» against people or other animals, it is necessary to discover the cause and take measures to change their behavior.

Possible causes for aggression in a cat

• Physical factors: the cat could be sick or in pain.
• Fear: the animal perceives a person or situation as threatening.
• Psychological causes: Traumatic experiences may have affected the cat. It is often seen in cats that have been attacked by other cats.
• Socialization problems: Insufficiently socialized or inadequately trained cats can activate their wild instincts.

Scare, play, caress: they can show their claws without malice

A harmless variant of aggression is “redirected aggression,” which is nothing more than a reflex, not an intentional attack.

When a cat is scared, its defense instinct It is fired at the nearest target. This type of aggression should not worry you too much.

In other cases, when cats play intensely, they may forget that they are interacting with humans and not another cat. If the cat tries to “capture” your hand with its claws and bites, this does not mean that it is aggressive, but rather that it is not used to playing with people.

It can also be irritating when a cat that seemed to enjoy being petted suddenly attacks. Although this may seem unexpected, it is usually due to a failure in communication: When a cat gets tired of being petted, it usually gives signals through its body language; If these signals are ignored and petting continues, a defensive reaction may occur.

The cause may be an illness

If your usually affectionate cat suddenly becomes aggressive for no apparent reason, watch his behavior closely. A sudden change of attitude It could indicate some illness.

For example, if the cat snorts and scratches When you touch him, he may be experiencing pain due to an injury or an underlying medical condition.

Various diseases, such as metabolic disorders, osteoarthritis or epilepsy, They can affect the cat’s nerves and cause unusual reactions to touch. If other causes are ruled out, your cat care is optimal and the behavior persists, it is advisable to take it to the veterinarian for a medical check-up.

Fear or stress: two reasons to show claws

Unfortunately, visits to the vet are a source of anxiety for many cats. The stress of transportation and unfamiliar odors can cause him to react aggressively. In these situations, it is understandable that a cat would defend itself with teeth and claws. Luckily, veterinary staff are trained to deal with these cases and, in extreme situations, they can use sedatives to calm the animal.

The cats they have had bad experiences around people or animals they may also react in a threatening manner if they feel they have no way to escape. If your cat’s aggression is persistent and calming strategies are not working, consulting a behavioral professional may be helpful in determining whether he or she has a mental health problem.

Are there particularly aggressive cat breeds?

The tendency to be aggressive depends more on the individual character that of race. However, some breeds, such as the Savannah cat and the Bengal, have a slightly lower aggression threshold, due to their feral cat heritage.

How to calm an aggressive cat?

In no case does attacking or scolding the cat work. Such a response from the person will only make the situation worse.

When the cat is ready to attack, showing its tail raised, ears back and fur standing on end, follow these steps:

• Walk away slowly without making sudden movements.
• Avoid direct eye contact, but don’t lose sight of the cat. This can prevent the animal from feeling threatened.
• keep a distance and, if possible, leave the room and close the door.
• Give him time to relax.
• Later, try attract him with a treat or his favorite toy. If he doesn’t respond or growls at you, give him more time.

Depending on the cat’s personality, it may take time for him to trust you again, but your patience will be appreciated.