Cats can also be fearful of noises, so only use a loud noise if the cat is acting aggressively and you’re afraid it could hurt someone, including another animal. [2] X Trustworthy Source Best Friends Animal Society Nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to saving animal lives by operating and supporting no-kill animal shelters Go to source If you use a loud noise to distract the cat, make sure it has a clear escape route in case it wants to flee. You don’t want to scare the cat while it’s trapped or it could get more aggressive.
Running away is often the best way to avoid injury, but the cat may chase you. Walking away without engaging the cat can also be effective. [3] X Research source
If you have anything in your hand or near you that you can use to wrap around the cat, such as a sweater, blanket, or towel, toss it over the cat. Then secure the wrap, which can limit the damage the cat can do with its teeth and claws.
You could also try pouring water on the cats if you have access to some. If you’re in your own home, throw pillows can help!
Even if you have good intentions, such as feeding the cat, you may still be attacked if you corner the cat.
Frequent visits from other cats can increase the aggression in your own cat. If you know you have a rodent problem, you’ll need to address it, as the cats will come to hunt the mice or rats. Put up a cat-proof fence. Place prickly items around the perimeter of your yard. Install motion-sensor sprinklers in your yard. [10] X Research source
Play with your cat 2-3 times a day for 10-15 minutes at a time. [13] X Research source Offer your cat a variety of cat toys, but make sure that they don’t play with string unless you are supervising them. The cat could eat the string, which causes internal issues for the cat. Scratching posts and climbing toys are also a great investment.
For example, you could try Feliway, which release pheromones into the air to calm the cat. [15] X Trustworthy Source Best Friends Animal Society Nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to saving animal lives by operating and supporting no-kill animal shelters Go to source Ask your vet which product they would recommend for your cat.
When the cat gets aggressive, simply walk away and wait for it to calm back down.
There are also community programs that may enable you to get your cat spayed or neutered at a lower cost – or even for free.
Great options include a cat perch, a cat bed situated in a dark corner of a room, a cat tree that contains a cubby, or a cardboard box. If you have multiple cats, you need to make sure that each cat has plenty of space. They should each have their own hiding place.
Feed the cats in separate areas. Make sure that each cat has its own food dish, water bowl, litter box, and bed. Give each cat its own cat tree or perch. Buy each cat its own cat toys. Set up play areas so that your cats can choose to play together but don’t have to.
Talk to your vet about what could be causing your cat’s aggression. Be prepared to talk to your vet about what’s going on in your cat’s life. For example, tell them if you recently got a new cat, moved, or your family’s schedule changed. The cat could be reacting to something that’s changed in its world.
Look for someone who advertises themself as a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB or ACAAB) or board-certified veterinary behaviorist. Ask your vet to recommend a specialist.
Do not get closer to the cat to see its eyes. If you think it might be aggressive, assume you’re right and get away.
