Are you dealing with a cat that normally hisses, swats, or bites at other pets or you? Are you looking for ways to calm aggressive cats? If yes, you’re not the only one. 7 out of 10 cat parents deal with an aggressive cat daily.

Sometimes your cat will throw tantrums merely to seek your attention. But when such behavior gets repetitive and violent the important thing to do in this situation is to provide a safe space for your cat and remain patient till they calm down.

Understanding Feline Aggression

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) states that approximately 10% of cats deal with feline aggression. However, it’s important to understand whether the aggressive behavior is due to their playfulness or an underlying problem.

It is normal for a cat to display mild, playful aggression through their actions, especially while playing. Cats scratch, bite and hiss to relieve their stress. It is not appropriate to think of these natural instincts as aggressive behavior. However, when you notice a repetitiveness in their aggressive behaviour, it’s time to diagnose the reasons while staying calm and patient with your cats.

Here are some questions to help you determine if your cat is exhibiting aggressive behaviour:

• Does your cat bite you when you try to touch or pick them up?
• Does your cat attack other pets or people in the house without provocation?
• Does your cat hiss or growl a lot when they feel scared?

Get your cat examined for underlying issues if you think that the behavior is associated with medical conditions. Consult a vet today! But if you think that some lifestyle changes and professional guidance can help improve the condition, then here are some tips to calm your aggressive cat.

5 Tips to Calm Aggressive Cats

• Provide safe space
• Do not punish aggressive behaviour
• Increase playtime
• Ensure consistent routine
• Seek professional help

Provide plenty of safe space and resources.

Cats are solitary animals who prefer their private space to feel safe. To calm aggressive cats provide them with plenty of such secured corners in your house, toys, and scratching posts to keep them busy and active. Installing multiple litter boxes and food bowls in each room will reduce the competition. If you need tips on creating a safe space for cats, refer to this article.

Avoid punishing aggressive behaviour.

Punishing your cat for displaying aggressive behaviour will only make things worse. Avoid physical punishment and yelling. If your cat has developed a habit of attacking you as you walk by, try distracting them with their favourite treats and toys.

Increase playtime and interactive toys.

When it comes to building trust with your feline buddy, the important thing to do is to spend time with them. Playtime routines with feathered and laser toys will keep your cat busy, calm and pleased throughout the day. It will also help you to build a special bond with your cat.

Provide regular, consistent routines.

Cats thrive on routine and structure. A minor change in the schedule might freak them out. Providing regular feeding times, playtimes, and grooming sessions can help reduce anxiety and calm aggressive cats.

Consider seeking professional help.

If your cat refuses to give up on their aggressive behaviour even after unending attempts, seek help from the professional animal behaviourist. Here are some steps you can follow:

• Make sure to look for certified animal behaviorists.
• Make sure to gather as much information as possible regarding what triggers the aggression and how the cat behaves during aggressive episodes.
• Make sure to follow the animal behaviorist’s advice and implement any recommended behavior modification techniques or changes to your cat’s environment.

Remember that seeking professional help from an animal behaviorist is the first step in addressing cat aggression, and it can help improve your cat’s quality of life and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Dealing with feline aggressive behaviour can be a frustrating issue for cat parents. However, with patience and persistence, you can help calm aggressive cats. With plenty of resources, avoiding physical punishment, extra playtime, regular routines, and seeking professional help, if necessary, you can help your cat feel secure and reduce their aggressive behaviour.