WHAT IS REDIRECTED AGGRESSION?
It happens when a cat is aroused by another animal (most commonly an outside cat, rarely a person or event), but is unable to access and focus the aggression towards the target. Think about an outside cat sitting on your window sill. The cat then redirects that anger at a bystander cat, dog, children, and even an owner.
ARE THERE SIGNS?
Agitation, aggressive body postures, hissing, growing, ears back, and back hair standing up are common observations by owners. As it progresses the refocused anger is directed to another pet, child, or even an owner and the attack can be quite vicious that it may require a doctor visit.
ARE THESE FEARFUL CATS?They can be cats that exhibit anxious behavior. Often there are some minor episodes that escalate into major attacks due to any sight, sound, or source of arousal that leads to an increase in anxiety.
WHAT MAKES THESE ATTACKS ESPECIALLY DANGROUS?
It can be terrorizing, as often they can have a “ FLASHBACK” and attack the previous redirected anger with no outdoor provocateur in sight. In other words, a spontaneous attack on another cat, dog, child, or even owner can occur with no warning due to prior conditioning. In some multi cat houses, the situation can be irreversible and unpredictable.
CAN AN OWNER TAKE ACTION IN THESE CIRCUMSTANCES?
Yes, an owner must AVOID the cat until it calms down. If there are 2 pets fighting they must be separated without direct hand contact with the aggressive cat. It may take minutes, hours, or even days for the cat to calm down, so placing the cat in a safe room with food, water, and litter is advised.
ARE THERE DRUGS THAT HELP?
Yes, Paxil is often prescribed, but it is not a cure, and these cats are still unpredictable.
NAME SOME OTHER TECHNIQUES THAT MAY HELP!
Behaviorists recommend blocking access to the window with blinds, www.wallpaperforwindows.com, or gates to avoid visual cues. If possible, any motion-detector based water sprayer or noise should be utilized on the outside place where strays come to the windows. Put cat trees, food, bedding, water, and a litter box in the center of the house away from offending windows.
CAN THESE CATS BE DANGEROUS AROUND CHILDREN and OTHER PETS?
Yes!
Betsy T. Sigmon DVM, Diplomate ABVP, Canine & Feline
Hospital Director
Creature Comforts, Animal Hospital PLLC
Cary, NC
Many thanks to Fred Shipp for sharing the pictures of his cat Lily.
