9 tips for calming your cat
If your cat is showing signs of aggression it’s important to address it right away. Try some of our tips for calming down your cat.
1. Book a visit to the vet
Even if your cat has only displayed minimal aggression or you have just noticed that it is behaving slightly differently, seeing the vet is the first crucial step to take. You want to rule out any medical causes for the behaviour, and deal with those before the aggression gets out of control. Your pet may have been in a fight, have heart issues, or maybe even a toothache.
2. Become his happy place
Nobody knows your cat better than you, so if you know he is not himself, now is the time to show him how much you care. Provide a happy home for him to relax and be himself in, rather than getting upset at the behaviour itself.
3. Step in where necessary
If aggression is happening when your cat interacts with other pets in the house, you may need to have tools on hand to step in as needed. For instance you could put a piece of cardboard up between two cats who are facing off, as this can help settle things down before it escalates into a fight.
4. Keep children safe
Even if your cat has never hurt anyone, now isn’t the time to be leaving them unsupervised around children. An aggressive cat can quickly turn nasty if provoked by an inquisitive toddler.
5. Make some cat-only spaces
Cats need to know that they have a safe place to retreat to if they feel threatened or vulnerable. For instance you might have an elevated scratching post that your cat knows won’t be reached by little people. You should also let children know to leave cats alone in other spaces such as when they are in their litter box, eating or sleeping.
6. Teach kids how to be kind
From an early age, children can be taught the right way to approach and interact with a cat. For instance that we pat them from head to tail and not the other way; we don’t pull their tail; and we don’t put our fingers in their mouths. You can also teach them about the signals your cat gives when it doesn’t feel like interacting.
7. Have some down time
If you can see that your cat is getting edgy, step back and leave him alone for a while. Lower the lights, turn off the TV or music, and let him settle down without physically touching him.
8. Don’t punish the bad behaviour
Although you may be upset at a cat that has hissed or scratched you in an aggressive way, don’t be tempted to try and punish him. This could potentially increase the aggressive behaviour or may even make him fear you. It’s important to work out the root of the problem so that you can sort out whatever is bothering your pet.
9. Get more help if you need it
While your first port of call should be your veterinarian, they can also offer you a referral to a certified behaviour expert if you feel as though you need more support.
Have you got any advice for cat owners with an aggressive cat? Please share your tips in the comments.
Related links:
8 things you didn't know could poison your pet
9 foods you should NEVER feed your pet