Common feline problem behaviours: Owner-directed aggression

Abstract

Practical relevance: Aggression towards owners is a common behavioural problem in cats, particularly in cats that have been obtained from pet shops or other sources where there has been inadequate socialisation with people, and in those kept only indoors. Very often aggression is associated with a stress response and it may potentially lead to relinquishment and euthanasia of the cat. Therefore, preventing and treating owner-directed aggression has significant benefits for the welfare of the cat and the quality of the cat-owner bond.

Aim: The objectives of this article are to highlight the characteristics of the most common types of feline aggression towards human family members and to describe, in a very practical way, the main treatment strategies. The article is aimed at general practitioners; for severe cases of aggression and/or cases involving feral cats, referral to a specialist behaviourist is recommended.

Clinical challenges: Veterinarians and behaviourists are not always able to witness the aggressive behaviour of the cat and therefore a detailed and accurate interview, as well as the use of complementary tools such as video recording, is essential to reach a diagnosis.

Evidence base: This review draws on evidence from an extensive body of published literature as well as the authors' clinical experience and own research.

Keywords: Aggression; behaviour; cat–owner bond; owner-directed aggression.

Figure 1

Diagnostic protocol for feline aggression problems. *Includes aspects such as how the owner plays and interacts with their cat, the use of punishment and reinforcers, and consistency of handling. † Assess on a case-by-case basis; the welfare of the cat and safety of any future owners are the main concerns

Figure 2

A predatory sequence involves stalking (pictured), chasing, catching and biting. Image ©iStock/cynoclub

Figure 3

Petting-related aggression is very common in cats and particularly disconcerting for owners. Image ©iStock/Anastasia Lukinyh

Figure 4

Defensive body postures in cats include (a) crouching, with ears flattened, and (b) arched back, piloerection and dilated pupils. Image (a) ©iStock/cynoclub and (b) ©iStock/GlobalP

Figure 5

Wounds in an owner caused by his cat exhibiting redirected aggression. In this case, the triggering stimulus was a loud noise and the alternative target was the owner himself. It is important that owners are advised to seek medical attention when necessary

Figure 6

Having access to elevated places increases the cat’s perception of control over its environment. This measure is important for all cats, and essential for fearful and stressed cats. Owners should take particular care when in the vicinity of an elevated cat, given the unpredictable nature of these behaviours

Figure 7

Food concealed in various locations or provided using dispenser food toys will encourage exploratory behaviour and play. This strategy is very useful for cats showing misdirected predatory behaviour

Figure 8

A safe zone, where the cat is protected from aversive stimuli, is extremely useful for fearful animals. In this case, the barrier prevented small children (which were the aversive stimuli) from accessing the cats’ area

Figure 9

(a,b) Hiding places are crucial for cats,^, in particular those with fear-related problems

Figure 10

(a,b) A ball of aluminium foil or (c) a length of ribbon are simple but effective play items for cats. Play should always be supervised and owners’ hands kept safely out of harm’s way (eg, the ribbon could be dangled from a chair)

Figure 11

A preferred food can be used as a reward while habituating the cat to being petted

Figure 12

In fearful cats, the clicker allows a desirable behaviour to be rewarded without direct owner-cat contact

Figure 13

If a cat rejects the food that contains the medication, one option is to mix the drug with malt extract and place it on the cat’s paw

Figure 14

Fraction 3 of the feline facial pheromone appears to have anxiolytic properties. If fear or stress responses are involved, a diffuser (a,b) releasing this pheromone could be placed where the cat spends most of its time (eg, safe area)