Types of aggression

If your cat is aggressive, ask your vet for advice. There may be a medical reason for their aggression. If not, ask your vet to recommend a qualified behaviourist.

Your cat could become aggressive for a number of reasons. By understanding the causes of aggression you may be able to help your cat to feel calm, secure and less aggressive.

Types of aggression include:

• defensive/fear aggression. Your cat will usually run from anything they think is a threat, but they may defend themselves if they can't escape, or have previously learned that fleeing doesn't work
• play and petting aggression. Cats generally prefer short but frequent interactions, which is normal in feline etiquette. In contrast, people often interact less often but more intensely. This can be a bit much for some cats and many have a limit to how much petting they can handle
• territorial aggression. Usually occurs when two cats meet on disputed ground or when one cat is passing through another cat's territory
• pain-induced aggression. Cats suffering from pain have lower tolerance levels and so are more likely to become aggressive