How to Handle Aggressive Behaviour in Cats and Dogs

Pet aggression may sometimes be difficult for the owner, but more often, it occurs when the usually sweet animal starts to show aggression by snarling, snapping, clawing or biting. Cat aggression behaviour, however, does not necessarily mean that the pet is aggressive or defiant. It can either be as a result of fear, stress, territorial attack due to invasion, over-excitement, or even perhaps a medical condition. Understanding what causes the behaviour of the animal is going to give a solution to the problem.

Why do Cats and Dogs Become Aggressive?

There are various factors which can trigger the aggression of a pet, and finding out these factors is very important for proper handling.

A cat can get aggressive due to the presence of other animals in its territory, due to disruption by visitors to its normal schedule, or even due to some shocking noise. The cat can also project its displeasure onto humans and pets that happen to be near them when they see another cat outside the window.

Similarly, a dog can get aggressive due to feeling threatened, guarding food and toys, social friction, and so forth.

Aggression is related to genetics, environmental stresses (trigger stacking), past learning and experiences (trauma), ptsd, and conflict with situations and even owners.   Mixed emotions can boil over for animals.  Aggression is a clinical sign, not related to ‘how good a pet is’, their temperament.  It is a situational response to stress and occasional hyperarousal.  Anxiety is the root cause and identifying overwhelming situations to prevent overwhelm and overload is key in treatment. 

Animals can and will learn different response but we need to help them to manage their triggers, environment and lead them to develop calm, non reactive behaviours.  Changing emotions for them is the work we do, that Dr. Dudzic focuses on.

Signs of Aggression

Owners will be able to intervene in good time by learning how to read the body language of their pets. Some of the signs of aggression by a cat are flattened ears, hissing, growling, wide eyes (pupils), and tail thumping.

Some of the signs which may indicate aggression by a dog are freezing up, being stiff, avoiding eye contact, barking, growling, or attempting to run away. Such signs are often an indication of the fact that there is something disturbing the animals.

Ways to Resolve Pet Aggression

Firstly, there is the option to give the pet a peaceful environment with shelters, sleeping spots, scratching spots, and playthings. In case of the cat getting to interact with other animals, start with segregation and introduction.

In case of dogs, try to avoid approaching the triggers of their aggressive behaviour and reward your dog appropriately in order to teach proper behaviour. If a dog tries to guard its resources, restrict his access to them. Never use any kind of punishment or shouting at him.

Consistency is another aspect that is vital here. Pay attention to the situations and times at which your pet exhibits his aggressive behaviour, and then adjust his routine accordingly based on what you observe. In case your pet starts showing aggressive behaviour in an unexpected manner, take him to the veterinarian.

When to Contact a Professional

Temporary indications should be considered, but regular growling, attacking and biting should be addressed to professionals. A veterinary behaviourist is able to assess your pet’s history, emotions, environment, and experiences in order to create a unique treatment plan.

Our Kindheart Veterinary Behaviour Services offers you a method of treatment based on the true cause of your pet’s behaviour. The treatment methods may vary depending on the outcome of your evaluation and may consist of environmental modifications, positive reinforcement, behaviour modification, and drugs.

Improving Your Bond with Your Pet

If you want to change your cat and dog aggression behaviour of your pets, it takes time, patience, observability, and realistic expectations. You have to appreciate even the smallest achievements, be aware of limitations that your pets have, and ask for help when it is needed in order to get some advice and know more about your pets. If your dog shows aggressiveness, visiting a veterinarian would be helpful.