House soiling, aggression and scratching are the most common cat behavior issues. Most of the behaviors that people consider issues (e.g., chewing, biting and scratching) are actually normal cat behaviors. Unfortunately, they are unacceptable to many of us.
For example, the most common cat behaviors include purring, grooming, kneading, and climbing.
Many feline problem behaviours stem from perceived threats to this security, often due to conflicts with other cats. Others are more developmental in origin, often caused by inadequate exposure to crucial stimuli, especially people, during the socialisation period.
Products geared toward decreasing stress and anxiety, such as pheromones and supplements, may help decrease aggressive behaviors. If your cat is bored, provide it with safe toys to play with. For persistent cats that try to chew on things they shouldn't, you can try a bitter spray as a deterrent.
Cat anxiety can cause bodily reactions and changes in your cat's behavior. An anxious cat may have physical reactions such as increased heart and respiratory rates, panting, trembling, and salivation. The most obvious behavior changes are increased movement, hiding, destruction, and excessive vocalization.
Cats can be loveable, friendly pets — but sometimes they might not like you very much. If your cat has a lowered or puffed-up tail, it could mean they are afraid or uncomfortable. Cats might also bite you or hiss at you if they aren't your biggest fan.
Cats who are painful may withdraw from their usual family interactions, may become less engaged in their surroundings, and may start hiding. You may notice decreased eating and/or drinking. You may also notice changes in sleeping patterns.
Noise, boredom, or too much competition for resources such as food or the litter box can all cause aggression. Make sure you provide plenty of access to calm “escape” spots, playtime, and other resources.
In many cats compulsive behavior results from stress or anxiety. Chewing wool or other fabrics tends to occur in Siamese and similar breeds and is likely inherited. Your veterinarian can help you with a behavior modification program and medication in order to manage these types of behavior problems.
They likely do this because the new people are changing their routine which can scare and stress your kitty out. Cats can exhibit changes in their behavior for many reasons, some of these include stress, fear, illness, injury, or something as simple as boredom.
It probably feels like your four-legged fur baby has got it in for you, but these perceived acts of aggression are actually an indicator of affection. That can be quite difficult to fathom, right? But it's true; they're actually “love bites” rather than a defense mechanism.
To show affection
Licking is not only a grooming mechanism but also a way cats show that they love you. Your cat is creating a social bond by licking you, other cats, or pets. This sign of affection may stem from kittenhood when your cat's mother licked them to groom them and show care and affection.
Cats show love and affection by purring, bunting, and rolling over onto their back.
Hugging your arm or leg and biting you is a classic cat hunting move. When cats catch large prey, they will often grasp it with their front legs and then bite it while 'bunny kicking' with their back legs. If your cat is doing this to you, they are misdirecting their hunting behaviour onto you.
The use of noise deterrents within a few seconds of aggressive behavior, such as a blast from a can of compressed air or a person hissing, may be helpful in startling a cat and redirecting his attention. The goal is not to scare the cat, but to distract him and refocus his attention.
Play Aggression
If a person's hands and arms are too close to the cat during play, the cat may bite, scratch, and pounce on the person, leading to injuries. Cats may also lunge from under beds during play aggression episodes.
Howling, crying, hiding, and otherwise acting in a way that is out of character for your pet should alert you that something may be seriously wrong. Changes in litter box habits, particularly in male cats, can indicate a serious health problem.
Cats have a reputation for being uncaring and aloof, but according to an animal behavior expert, that couldn't be further from the truth. Anna Chaney—an associate curator at Memphis Zoo who specializes in felines—told Newsweek that cats do have emotions—and just like humans, their feelings are capable of being hurt.
If its tail is lashing around, puffing up, laying low and stiff, or dragging on the ground, your cat might be annoyed, on edge, stressed, defensive, or fearful. A twitching isn't necessarily a bad sign—sometimes it's playful—but when the tail whips back and forth like a whip, it's usually a sign to stay back.
If your cat sleeps on your bed, he may choose a position that lets him see out your bedroom door more easily. If he's curled up in a ball under your bed or in a quiet corner, then he may be hiding. Cats who sleep under the covers might love being close to you, or they might be hiding to feel safer.
Pay attention to signs of irritation and give the cat a break if you observe them. Signs include: tail swishing, a cranky meow, or a quick head turn to stare at your hand. Let them sit next to you without pets, or try playing with them with an interactive toy as an alternative to cuddles.
Playing with your cat and providing them with interactive toys, such as wand toys and puzzle toys, can also reduce anxiety. Over-the-counter calming products, such as pheromones and supplements, may help reduce anxiety but should be discussed with a veterinarian first.