Why Are Boy Cats Mean to Girl Cats?

Male cats are often seen acting aggressive toward female cats. Animal behaviorists often deal with cat aggression, which is the second most common behavior problem in felines. Male cats may swat at, bite, growl or take an offensive stance at female cats for numerous reasons, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

  1. Undersocialization

    • The most common reason that a cat acts aggressive toward another cat--whether male or female--is undersocialization, says the ASPCA. If your male cat had a negative experience with another cat early in his life, he may associate other felines with those same negative feelings. Or, if he was not introduced to other cats throughout his lifetime, he may be annoyed or afraid of the introduction of a new cat. Because cats like having a routine, the disruption makes him aggressive.

    Intimidation

    • If the male cat is significantly larger than the female, he may be attempting to intimidate her. Intimidation toward a female usually involves a direct stare, with stiffened legs and tail. This is an offensive stance that is meant to intimidate, or threaten, the other cat. According to the ASPCA, this threatening behavior is usually brought on by the physicality of the cat. Larger cats are known to try to intimidate smaller cats that are not active.

    Sexual Aggression

    • When a male cat attempts to mate with a female, he will often bite the scruff of her neck to hold her in place until the ritual is complete. Holding the female down allows the male to mate without the female turning or running away. Although this behavior is typically seen in un-neutered males, or males with intact testes that produce testosterone, neutered males sometimes act sexually aggressive with neutered female cats.

    Territorial

    • Male cats are typically more territorial than female cats. To mark their territory, male cats spray, patrol and rub their chins on what they deem their "territory." If another cat gets too close, the male will stalk or chase the offender. The guarding cat often hisses, swats at or bites the offending cat to show his dominance and protect his territory. This behavior occurs when a male cat becomes sexually mature or a new cat is introduced.

    Just Playing

    • Younger cats below the age of 2 years often participate in rough play. This is completely natural. Cats' ears are pointed forward when playing, while a cat that is taking an offensive stance will flatten his ears against his head. The cats' bodies are loose during play, leaning toward the other cat instead of back. Although claws are drawn and teeth are bared, rough playing is not harmful.