Take things slow and allow the cat to make the decisions. Gently extend your fingers towards her nose so she can get a good whiff of you and know that you aren't a threat. Let the cat make the choices on her terms—you're much more likely to have a good interaction if you allow the cat to come to you.
Avoid loud noises and abrupt movements that might startle your cat. Refrain from looming over him, since it makes you appear larger and potentially threatening. Instead sit down on the floor to put yourself at his level. Try inviting your cat into your space instead of moving into his space.
Treat the cat as a person, because cats treat you as a person. But keep in mind this person is another species and will read your body language much more clearly than humans -- be honest with the cat. If a male cat sprays territory in your house, that's instinct too. He's establishing that he's the big tom in the area.
Feeding multiple cats in separate locations with separate bowls is also encouraged to decrease dominant behavior caused by competition for food. Additionally, it is important to make sure you have enough litter boxes for all of your cats to prevent them from competing or stalking each other in the litter box.
One simple way to know if your cat trusts you is if her tail stands straight up, especially when she sees you or walks toward you. Some cat experts consider it to be a “thumbs up” in cat lingo. If the tail quivers slightly, it's even more indication that the cat has positive feelings toward you.
In a research made by Nottingham Trent University, the findings show that cats are able to determine when their humans are anxious or stressed. Apart from this, they can also mirror their human's emotions and well-being.
Despite some cat lovers claiming they witnessed their cat predicting imminent danger or communicating with persons unseen, there is no solid evidence that cats are able to detect things beyond what the usual five senses are capable of.
Lastly, cats can use biting as a communication tool or a means to get attention. This type of biting is often the least severe – think “love nips” when you've stopped petting your cat when they want more. If your cat nips you and you keep petting him, that bite worked!
If you feel safe, approach the cat slowly and speak in a soft voice. Hold out your hand and call it softly. Offer a can of tuna or cat food, a bowl of water and shelter, if possible. But don't force it.
It's a common misconception that cats feel jealousy, spite, or want to get revenge. As far as science can tell us, cats don't feel these things. It's important to understand your cat's underlying emotions as this can help you to understand the cause and how to address it.
Although a cat may not care (as that word is generally used) about human morals, cats can and do distinguish between good and bad people, and are excellent judges of human character and emotion.
Let your cat decide when they're ready to bond. Some cats are ready to get to know you immediately while other kitties may take several weeks to initiate any kind of interaction.
You can apologize to your cat by spending time with it. This could be as simple as reading a book or listening to music next to your cat, or giving him a nice, long petting session. It could also mean that you have to set aside some time to play with your cat.
Signs of Emotional Trauma in Cats and Dogs
Trauma can also manifest as “shaking, hiding, urination and/or defecation when the trigger attempts to interact, howling, pacing, excessive vocalization, and panting,” says Pia Silvani, director of behavioral rehabilitation at the ASPCA's Behavioral Rehabilitation Center.
Don't try to calm or soothe your aggressive cat, just leave her alone and give her space. If you come close, she could turn and redirect her aggression toward you. Reward desired behavior. Praise or toss treats to reward your cats when you see them interacting in a friendly manner.
This is called petting induced or overstimulation aggression. It's a common behavior in many cats, and is something that can be both frustrating and frightening until you learn how to manage this behavior with your cat.
A Dominant Cat Might Be Physically Aggressive
This might result in physical aggression or fighting, including biting, scratching, and swatting. Cats also might hiss or growl at another cat to show their displeasure.