Understanding and Managing Cat Aggression: An Interview with Bianca De Vos from PAWSITIVELY Pet and Training

• What are some of the most common signs of aggression in cats that pet owners might overlook?
• Can you explain the difference between fear-based and territorial aggression in cats?
• What role does a cat’s environment play in triggering aggressive behaviour, and how can owners modify the environment to reduce stress?
• Are there specific breeds or age groups that are more prone to aggression, or is it more dependent on individual temperament and experiences?
• What are some effective strategies or techniques that cat owners can use at home to manage and reduce aggressive behaviour?
• At what point should a cat owner consider professional help, and what types of interventions are typically used in severe cases of aggression?

Aggression in cats is a complex and often misunderstood behaviour that can pose challenges for pet owners. Recognising the signs and understanding the underlying causes of aggression is crucial for creating a harmonious living environment for both cats and their owners. To shed light on this important topic, Pets24 interviewed Bianca De Vos, an expert from PAWSITIVELY Pet and Training. In this interview, Bianca shares her insights on the common signs of aggression in cats, the differences between fear-based and territorial aggression, the role of a cat’s environment, and effective strategies for managing and reducing aggressive behaviour.

What are some of the most common signs of aggression in cats that pet owners might overlook?

I’ll start by discussing a cat’s body language, which is crucial. Pet owners often notice the obvious signs like biting and growling but miss the subtle ones. Typical signs include ears held backward or flat and a lashing tail. Cats communicate a lot with their tails; swift, quick movements often indicate discomfort. Cats may also arch their backs and raise their fur when they feel threatened, trying to appear larger to scare off predators. Hissing is another vocal sign of discomfort. Additionally, cats use scent marking to communicate, such as rubbing against objects or urine marking. These are often overlooked but important indicators of a cat’s emotional state.

Can you explain the difference between fear-based and territorial aggression in cats?

Sure, fear-based aggression involves the 5Fs system (fight, flight, freeze, fidget, faint). The FEAR system can be activated by any stimuli. Fear also includes avoidance; if a cat is fearful, they would try to escape the situation by running away. When a cat can’t get away from the situation, that would then cause fearful aggression. Fear aggression involves the sympathetic nervous system.

When it comes to territorial aggression, it involves the cat’s environment and what the cat finds valuable. This could include their house, yards, etc., basically anything they choose. In territorial aggression, the cat will not avoid the stimuli.

What role does a cat’s environment play in triggering aggressive behaviour, and how can owners modify the environment to reduce stress?

A cat’s environment is an important factor in triggering aggressive behaviour. This is because depending on what the cat finds stressful. For example, when a cat is fearful, their first response would be to move away from the fearful stimuli. When the environment of the cat does not allow the cat to move away, their reaction towards the fearful stimuli could then lead to aggression. Management of their environment and creating safe spaces is important.

Are there specific breeds or age groups that are more prone to aggression, or is it more dependent on individual temperament and experiences?

Each cat is an individual, so it’s challenging to generalize. Genetics and personal experiences significantly influence a cat’s behavior. While certain breeds may have specific traits, an individual cat’s experiences and temperament play a crucial role in how they react in different situations.

What are some effective strategies or techniques that cat owners can use at home to manage and reduce aggressive behaviour?

Since each cat is unique, strategies must be tailored to the type of aggression. For example, fear-based aggression requires different approaches than territorial aggression. Consulting a behaviourist can help set up a specific plan. Understanding a cat’s body language is also essential to manage situations effectively. Creating distance from stimuli and ensuring the cat has a safe space can help manage aggressive behaviours.

At what point should a cat owner consider professional help, and what types of interventions are typically used in severe cases of aggression?

Professional help should be considered whenever there is a change in a cat’s behavior, especially if it becomes aggressive. A vet consultation is a good starting point to rule out pain or health issues. Consulting an animal behaviourist can provide insights into the underlying causes of aggression and help develop strategies to address them. Behaviourists can offer valuable advice and support to ensure the cat’s emotional and physical needs are met.

I would always suggest professional help, an animal behaviourist will do a consult and
create a behaviour modification plan. The behaviour modification plan will have
instructions and procedures to help the cat’s behaviour and will help care takers
understand what their cat is feeling.

Aggression in cats can stem from various factors, including fear, territorial instincts, and individual temperament. By understanding the signs and causes of aggression, as explained by Bianca De Vos from PAWSITIVELY Pet and Training, cat owners can take proactive steps to create a safer and more comfortable environment for their feline companions. Consulting with an animal behaviourist, like Bianca, can provide valuable guidance and a tailored behaviour modification plan to address severe cases of aggression. Ultimately, a deeper understanding of cat behaviour can lead to stronger bonds and a more peaceful coexistence between cats and their owners.