Play Aggression In Cats

Play aggression in cats is a common problem. Almost all instances of play aggression involve cat scratches, nips, or inhibited bites during play or in an attempt to initiate play. This is most common in cats younger than two years old, especially if it is a single cat household. Though this rough play may seem harmless, play aggression can lead to more problematic aggressive behaviors if left uncorrected.

When a cat plays appropriately, the claws should remain within the paws. If the cat scratches or starts to use or display its claws, the cat owner should abruptly end the play session and leave the cat’s location. Harsh punishment can provoke more aggression and make the cat think that aggression is actually acceptable and expected. Ending the play session and attention of the cat owner is the best consequence for rough play.

Cat owners should be in agreement on whether or not aggressive play should be tolerated and even encouraged. Sometimes, one cat owner will prefer to play rough with the cat while the other is trying to work to stop aggressive behavior. This lack of consistency can confuse the cat and keep the cat owner from stopping aggressive behavior.

Play aggression can lead to cat aggression problems. By allowing the cat to continue to be aggressive during play, it teaches the cat that aggressive behaviors such as scratching and biting are acceptable. Besides a lack of boundaries set against cat aggression, a lack of play and unused energy can contribute to play aggression.

Cat aggressive play can include stalking and pouncing at the cat owners feet when the cat owner least expects it. Grabbing, biting, and ripping the cat owner’s clothing can be a problematic form of aggressive play. The cat owner should be the one to initiate play with the cat. The cat owner should be the one to say when play should take place and what cat behavior is acceptable. Cat toys should be available for the cat to play alone. Cat toys can also provide a source of stimulation and release of energy which can help reduce play aggression.