When you adopt a cat, the dream is to have an automatic cuddle-buddy. The reality is that some cats need time to settle in. If your cat is exhibiting aggressive behavior, it’s important to learn where that comes from and what you can do to help.
Generally, cats act aggressively when they feel unsafe. This could be because of a new environment or unfamiliar lifestyle. The good news is that it’s possible to help your cat relax. With new pets, the first step is isolation. Keep it in one room and introduce it slowly to new areas and people. Next, start building trust with your furry friend. It can also help to talk to your vet, as aggression can be rooted in physical pain, not just anxiety. Finally, know your cat. Try not to put it in situations that will trigger aggressive behavior.
When you can’t be there for your pet, our team of attentive professionals can be. To learn more about the dedicated Atlanta cat sitters at Critter Sitters, call us today at (404) 793-6178.
Why Do Cats Exhibit Aggressive Behavior?
If you’ve recently opened your home to a brand-new feline friend, you may be shocked when your cat has a moment of aggression. Is it part of your cat’s personality, or is something else at play? Understanding the reasons for aggressive behavior is often the first step in getting through to your skittish kitten.
At Critter Sitters, our cat sitters believe that all felines are sweet and loving at heart. That being said, negative experiences can cause your cat to act out and exhibit aggressive behavior. If you adopted your feline from a shelter, it may have a hard time trusting you at first. A tumultuous upbringing can cause your cat to lash out and act a bit aggressive.
Generally, such behavior boils down to a lack of trust. A lifetime of fear or insecurity can take some time to erase. So, don’t be afraid that your cat doesn’t like you. Just understand that it doesn’t quite know you yet. Or, if your cat is great with you but less so with other felines or people, don’t worry. Building that trust and security takes time. The good news is that no cat is a lost cause. Some just require a little bit more love and attention to unlearn that aggressive behavior.
Tips on Dealing with Aggressive Behavior in Cats
So, your cat is acting a little bit aggressive. Animals tend to do that when placed in a new environment. Even the most docile cats can have a hard time with fresh faces. That being said, it’s on the pet parent to learn what to do. If your feline is exhibiting aggressive behavior, the Sandy Springs cat sitters at Critter Sitters have some tips for you.
Isolate Your Pet
Entering a new home can be overwhelming to a newly adopted cat. Your cat’s aggression could be because it feels overstimulated. So, start small. Isolate your kitty to one area of your home. If you have multiple pets or people living in your house, it can be even more important for your cat to have its own quarters on day one.
Allow your cat to become comfortable with one space and one face at a time. Bit by bit, you can introduce it to new people and places. If you have other pets, be sure to monitor their first few interactions with your cat. It’s not uncommon for cats to lash out at other animals or people that they’re unfamiliar with, especially right after adoption.
Build Trust
One of the best ways to deal with an aggressive cat is by focusing on building trust. Generally, cats become aggressive when they feel threatened or afraid. Instead of running to you in moments of anxiety, they may react aggressively. One way to counteract that is by building trust.
Pet parents should maintain a calming environment and provide easy access to the necessities. That means food, water, and a litterbox. Your cat is likely to warm up once it views you as a trusted food source. Haven’t you heard the phrase, don’t bite the hand that feeds you? Your cat is less likely to point aggressive behavior in your direction if it can rely on you for the basics.
Lay on the Love
While you don’t want to overwhelm any cat, especially your aggressive feline, it is important to exhibit love. When your cat is willing, cuddle them and engage in play. Show your cat that it has nothing to fear by being in your presence. Give your kitty treats and speak affectionately. Our Alpharetta cat sitters will do the same when your feline is in their care. In the first few weeks of your pet’s new life in your home, it’s important to be consistent by showing it lots of love.
Talk with Your Vet
Talk with your veterinarian if you’re getting frustrated by your cat’s aggressive behavior. An experienced vet can give you invaluable tips to calm your feline. Sometimes, aggression is rooted in physical discomfort. For example, if your cat gets angry when you pet it in a certain spot, it may be because there is a deeper issue. In that case, it’s important to take your cat to the vet right away. It could be that physical pain is causing your pet’s aggressive behavior.
Know Your Pet
At the end of the day, you need to know your pet. If you’ve had your cat for several years and know that it can act aggressively towards other animals, try to limit contact. Pay attention to its body language and know its comfort levels. If your feline tends to get aggressive in certain situations, inform our cat sitters when it’s in their care. Our goal is the same as yours; to keep your cat feeling comfortable and safe at all times.
Call Our Dedicated Cat Sitters Today
Our team of loving professionals is here to take care of your kitty when you’re out of town. To learn more about the dedicated Roswell cat sitters at Critter Sitters, call us today at (404) 793-6178.
