Cats attack their owners for several reasons, often relating to natural behaviors and communication. Common causes include:
- Play aggression: Cats engage in stalking, pouncing, biting, and scratching as part of play, especially if they have excess energy or haven’t learned to inhibit their bites during play. Cats that were orphaned or weaned early might not have learned to temper this behavior. Also, playing with hands and feet can encourage such attacks.
- Fear or defensive aggression: If a cat feels trapped, scared, or unable to escape, it may attack to defend itself.
- Territorial aggression: Cats may show aggression to protect their space or resources, sometimes directed toward specific people or other pets in the household.
- Redirected aggression: Cats can get excited or agitated by something they cannot reach or confront (such as a bird outside), then redirect their aggression toward their owner.
- Petting-induced aggression: Repeated stroking or petting in one spot may become irritating or even painful for a cat, triggering biting or scratching as a way to stop the interaction.
- Attention-seeking behavior: Cats sometimes attack to gain attention if they feel ignored.
- Medical issues or pain: If a cat is normally non-aggressive but suddenly attacks, it could be due to pain or illness, such as arthritis or injuries.
- Mating behavior: Some aggressive behavior can be instinctive mating-related actions, especially in unneutered cats.
Overall, cats do not attack owners out of malice but rather due to instinctive behaviors, communication signals, discomfort, or lack of proper outlets for their energy. Understanding and respecting their body language and needs can help reduce attacks.
