Instructions
Identifying Causes of Aggression
Play with a toy wand or string to avoid injuries from play behavior, which is frequently mistaken for aggression. While the cat should have learned from its mother or when playing with siblings to withdraw the claws, keep its claws trim by cutting them once or twice a month. Understand the cat naturally hones its predatory skills, as when catching mice, and your hand may receive a minor scratch in the process. There are also "love bites" where the cat holds your hand in its paws and gives a firm bite that does not break the skin.
Be patient and calm with a fearful cat who exhibits aggression. This occurs when the cat has not been properly socialized with people or has faced abuse in the past. The behavior will not change overnight, and the cat will need much reassurance as you take baby steps forward -- showing it there is nothing to be afraid of.
Keep an eye open for an otherwise normal cat who suddenly acts in an aggressive manner. It may be cluing you into something abnormal. Signs of sickness include loss of appetite, lethargy, diarrhea and excess fluid from the eyes, nose or mouth. The cat also may be injured -- indicated by limping, licking a potential wound, or the inability to walk or jump properly. Take your cat to the vet if you notice any of these signs.
Spay or neuter your cat to quell aggressive behavior relating to questions of territory between it and other pets. Otherwise, your house may need to literally be divided in an attempt to keep the cat separated. When a cat is stressed or overcrowded, such as with the introduction of a new pet or even a baby, aggression is its way of saying it needs more time and space to adapt.
Taking Action
Maintain your role as the alpha cat at all times. Use your voice in a firm and commanding tone to convey that you want the cat's full attention and for it to stop its aggressive behavior. If needed, standing uses your size to your advantage, but never chase the cat. Use a slightly more friendly tone when dealing with fearful, sick or injured cats. Consistent training to correct aggressive behavior is the best form of discipline.
Use a loud, distracting noise to immediately snap the cat out of its bad behavior. Ring a bell, toot an air horn or shake a can filled with a few coins when the cat is aggressive, though never near its sensitive ears. Some use a spray water bottle aimed at the cat's bottom half to discourage it, though it is safer to take water on your hands and flick it.
Do not praise or coddle the cat after it has stopped the aggression. Wait a while to let it know that you are still the boss. Alternatively, feel free to praise good behavior and reward with treats. Attention given towards behavior, good or bad, is sure to beg for repetition.
How to Discipline a Cat Who Acted out Aggressively
Many cat owners find their otherwise friendly feline acts out in an aggressive manner, be it hissing, growling, clawing or biting. When disciplining a cat for this behavior, remember that physical punishment does not work. It is an animal with natural instincts, and your job is to find out why the cat acted out. Understand where the aggression is coming from, and take the appropriate steps to correct it.