It’s a stubborn misconception that cats aren’t affectionate and don’t like cuddles or petting. This false notion sometimes quickly goes out the window for even those who like to say, “I’m not a cat person.” They just have to spend a little time with a friendly cat who wants nothing more than to give you a nose boop.
But it’s true cats are incredibly complex and can send mixed signals that appear downright aggressive. For example, while you are petting a cat, they may suddenly decide to go into a playful attack mode. Unfortunately, it just so happens it’s your hand that is the prey. Why does this happen? Is the Honeymoon over?
“The rules state that I cannot move my arm until Calypso gets up… starting to lose feeling in my fingers… #CatRules,” via Facebook/Cole and Marmalade
Petting and Play Aggression
As we know, there are complex reasons for cat aggression. It’s a top 5 reason people consult a behavioral expurrt like Jackson Galaxy. And, among the common types of aggression that every cat lover will experience are petting and play aggression.
As for petting aggression, it’s often when a cat’s natural instinct to hunt kicks in while you are petting them. It’s not because they want to hurt you, but it does if they go too far! Those who also love dogs know they do it sometimes, too.
Here’s a cute video about petting aggression from rescued Catfluencer sisters from Ohio, Oreo and Pumpkin Spice.
“When you pet a cat, the smooth, constant touch can wake up their deep down hunting instincts, even though they aren’t really trying to hurt you. In their minds, they’re practicing their skill on what to them feels like a moving target,” the video explains.
When Aggression Isn’t So Playful
Sometimes, you might mistake a cat’s petting aggression for play when they are actually overstimulated or even in pain. If it’s overstimulation, they need some space or may only like being petted in certain areas. As we’ve shared, an unfamiliar cat that doesn’t want touch can react in other ways, like freezing or fidgeting. What they really want is some space to feel safe.
Over time, you’ll know the signs of what to look out for. And you’ll rapidly learn where a cat likes to be petted versus the instant danger zone! (See our Cat Petting Guide below.)
Of course, if you suspect pain, a vet checkup can get to the root of the problem. There could be something unseen that needs treatment right away.
Cat petting guide from Facebook/Cole and Marmalade
What to Do About Petting Aggression?
Now that we know a cat isn’t trying to be mean, what do you do about the playful variety of petting aggression? Galaxy says this type of behavior is “very common and very easy to deal with.”
By reading your cat’s body language, you may see they want to amp up the play instead of staying still. At that point, the best approach is to direct their attention to something to ‘kill:’ their favorite toy! Then, have fun directing them to the toy prey.
“Give them what I call the appropriate victim,” says Jackson Galaxy, referring to their favorite interactive toy. “Don’t forget, your play aggressive cat sleeps because they are gearing up for the hunt.”
Marmalade looking aggressive but actually just being his goofy self via Facebook/Cole and Marmalade
One of our favorite ways to help a cat work out all that playful aggression is by adopting a buddy. Young kittens do so much better with a friend, and they will learn about boundaries and manners. That way, they become mature cats who will give you the cutest delicate play bite that’s as light as a feather. For cat lovers, that’s got to be one of the cutest things ever!
There’s much more about the complex reasons for a cat’s aggression in the video by Jackson Galaxy below, including when it’s because of overstimulation, pain, or another cause.
Featured image: Marmalade and Calypso via Cole and Marmalade
