Why Does My Cat Attack Me? [How To Calm an Aggressive Feline]

Cats can be pretty crazy sometimes, but that's part of why we love them so much! If they are attacking you often (or if they've hurt your feelings), you might be wondering, "why does my cat attack me?" Most cats attack their owners as a natural part of their play, but what if something more serious is going on? Does your cat hate you? Or are they just having a bad day?

 

Soon you'll worry no more because this article is here to save the day! You'll learn why cats attack people, how to identify if your cat is play attacking, and even some methods for stopping your cat from attacking you. If you're worried about an aggressive cat or curious why your cat won't stop attacking your hands, read on for all the answers!

 

 

Why Does My Cat Attack Me?

If you're wondering why your cat is attacking you, it's important to keep in mind that there are many possible reasons for it. Many of these reasons come from normal feline behavior. With the right approach, these types of behaviors are often correctable.

 

But, if your cat's aggression is related to a medical condition, there may be cause for some concern. To give you an idea of why your cat might be getting feisty with you, here are nine reasons they may be showing some aggression.

 

 

 

 

Over-Excited Kittens & Cats

Young cats direct their high levels of energy into physical contact and activities. An over-excited cat might express this as play aggression by attacking you or chasing you around. Many cats are high-energy animals, and behaviors that seem aggressive are not uncommon ways that cats express their energy. Pet parents might not understand this behavior at first, but keep in mind that your cat attacks might be their attempt at having some fun!

 

Seeking Attention

Cats proudly carry their iconic reputation as solitary, sometimes snarky animals. Admittedly their attitude is a big part of their appeal (who doesn't love a good grumpy cat?). But you might be surprised to hear that cats can be quite needy! They'll express this in many creative ways (my cat likes to chew paper!) that can range from knocking cups over to seemingly aggressive behavior. It is not out of the ordinary for a cat craving attention to chase its owner, play attack their hands and feet, or generally act up.

 

Fearful Cats

A fearful cat might attack or become aggressive based on what they feel is self-defense. Self-defensive aggression will often result from a cat feeling trapped or under threat. But many other things can trigger a cat's fear, like the introduction to a new cat, loud noise, or a visitor. If your cat feels that they do not have an easy escape in these situations, they may become fearful and aggressive.

 

Redirected Aggression

Redirected aggression happens when your cat is stimulated by something. This could be from another animal, person, or even a loud sound that your cat cannot physically interact with. The resulting behavior is directing this energy towards people and things that your cat can reach, such as you and the other things in your cat's immediate environment. We've all had times where we've walked in on a tense situation, only to catch the heat ourselves just by being there, and this situation is not so different! Cats do not do this to be malicious, but it can be difficult for them to hold back when excited.

 

Natural Predatorial & Dominant Instincts

Cats are natural predators adapted to hunting and trapping their prey. Nature has cats hardwired to have natural levels of territorial aggression. This makes them want to hold dominance over their living space. While these qualities do not give your cat free rein to act as they please, being aware of these instincts is important in being fair to your kitty and understanding their behavior. Cats will often express their predatory instincts around the house by play attacking, chasing, or stalking toys and people! So if you see your cat hunched low with its tail wagging high, beware of a potential ambush!

 

Maternal Instincts

Like humans and most other animals, a mother cat will do whatever it can to protect its family members. Individual cats' territorial aggression will vary. But female cats will generally have a stronger urge to protect their kittens and themselves. If they are a new mother, try to read your cat's body language to try and give them the space to feel comfortable and protected.

 

Medical Concerns

There is a possibility that your cat's behaviors could result from pain-induced aggression. Because cats are unable to communicate in the way that we do, when in pain, they may lash out as a way to tell us that they are uncomfortable. If you notice petting-induced aggression or generally aggressive behavior, an injury or sickness could be the cause. The seriousness of this can vary, but if a medical concern seems to be to blame for your cat's behavior, finding veterinary advice might be the key to relieving their problematic behavior.

 

 

 

 

Sexual Aggression

Cats that have reached sexual maturity might express latent sexual aggression. The mating process of cats can often seem harsh in the perspective of humans like us, which can include scratching and biting! Latent sexual aggression refers to the potential link between aggressive behaviors and the breeding process expressed as aggression towards the owner. This is a more common occurrence in male cats, even those who have gone through neutering.

 

 

Idiopathic Aggression

This type of aggression includes any behavior that cannot be explained with the cat's behavior history or through a medical exam. Cats with this type of aggression may violently attack their owners without holding back their full force, potentially causing injury. Cats with idiopathic aggression can remain aggravated for extended periods. This can cause them to bite and scratch repeatedly.

 

Other forms like redirected aggression must be closely monitored and ruled out before diagnosing idiopathic aggression. Because cats with idiopathic aggression can be dangerous, cat owners must take the steps needed to determine the cat's quality of life, their safety, and the people around them.

 

 

Identify Why Your Cat Is Attacking

Now that you know some reasons why cat aggression can occur, it might be less of a mystery when your cat engages in rough play or is displaying offensive body postures. Once you've determined why your cat is acting aggressively, it will be easier to plan the best way to address the problem. Some easy methods you can use to help determine the cause of their aggression:

 

• Pay Attention to Body Language: Keeping track of your cat's body language can tell pet parents a lot about where their mind is at. Cats will often arch their backs and push their fur out to increase their perceived size when aggravated, barring teeth and even hissing when they are upset. They will also often flatten their ears and widely display their eyes to create fear in their prey. If you carefully assess your cat's body language, you will learn their mood and know the warning signs of aggression.
• Record Attacks in a Log: If you are dealing with a particularly naughty cat, it can be helpful to record instances where they have shown aggression. This can help you find similarities between the different times when they have acted up, allowing you to figure out a behavioral pattern. This method also creates an easy and organized way to present your information to a vet. This way, they can better help you determine the cause.

 

 

How Can I Stop My Cat From Attacking Me?

Knowing the reasons why your cat bites and scratches you is one thing. But stopping their bad behavior is a wholly different challenge. Luckily, most cats' aggression can be corrected, so long as the owner knows the appropriate ways to stop them from attacking. We have some methods for stopping their behavior listed below for your convenience.

 

Do Not Punish Bad Behavior

While it may seem counter-intuitive, it is important to be sure you do not punish your cat's bad behavior. Cats do not learn from punishment and instead become fearful and anxious when exposed to physical correction (i.e., yelling, hitting, or tapping it on the nose). Some cats may even see the punishment as a challenge rather than a deterrent, further increasing your cat's aggressive behavior.

 

Reward Good Behavior

When your cat shows restraint or an improvement in their behavior, you should show them your appreciation with a reward like a treat! Positive reinforcement is a powerful way to change your cat's behavior. This happens by creating a positive association between good behavior and receiving a treat! Giving your kitty plenty of this positive reinforcement will encourage them to continue the behavior hoping that you'll reward them.

 

 

 

 

Try Using CBD

Many cat owners have turned to pet CBD products to reduce the stress levels of their cats. CBD is known for its calming properties and well-tolerated nature, making it appropriate for daily consumption. Even better is that CBD products like our CBD cat treats can double as a tasty reward. These are perfect for encouraging good behavior while lowering environmental stress. If your cat acts up from discomfort, CBD can also help them feel more at ease and comfortable. This can reduce their urge to act aggressively or lash out at those around them.

 

Interact & Play With Your Cat Daily

Giving your cat attention can help to deter it from acting up. Cats need love and interaction, and playing with them regularly is necessary to have a close relationship. It also keeps them happy! Look for times when your cat is in a playful mood and take those opportunities to interact with them using toys like pole-type toys, things to chase, and your hands for belly rubs! If you'd rather avoid them attacking your hands, you can also throw their favorite toy around!

 

Provide More Environmental Stimulation

Environmental stimulation, like boxes, things to climb on, and scratching posts, are key to keeping a happy cat. Try keeping some fun objects around for your cat to explore, or consider investing in a cat tree/house, so they always have a fun place to hang out and explore.

 

Utilize Deterrents In Common Stalking Area

If your cat has a favorite spot to attack you, you might consider using deterrents to keep them away! Making these areas undesirable to your pet will make them reconsider attacking you so you can rest easy when walking down their favorite dark hallway. Some commercial products are available for this, like small traps and noisemakers that will discourage your cat without hurting it. Eventually, it will stop returning to these areas associated with loud sounds and being startled.

 

Prevent Attacks On Ankles

The ankles are a common place cats attack due to their exposure and easily accessible location. If your cat tends to attack your ankles, you can enact some easy responses to discourage them. Firstly, it is important to understand not to run away; this communicates a prey-like behavior to your cat, further encouraging them and exciting them to bite down harder. Instead, try gently pushing closer to them with your ankle and remaining calm. That will show the cat that you are not their prey, causing them to eventually let go and lose interest.

 

Put Them In Time Out

If your cat has a hard time calming down when playing, it can be worth giving them a short time out. Disengaging their aggressive behavior will take the fun out of playtime, communicating that such behaviors will result in a shortened session. To put them in time out, turn away from them, and give them no attention. Cutting them off from their source of excitement and entertainment will help teach them to avoid attacking you if they want attention!