Cat Issues: Cat Aggression

Biting is a challenging problem in cats. Finding a new home is rarely an option, so we encourage you to focus on correcting the problem so you can keep your kitty.

Start with a checkup by your veterinarian to rule out any health problems. Pain or irritability associated with a physical ailment can cause aggressive behavior. If a medical problem is discovered and treated, the aggression should subside on its own.

Once a medical problem has been ruled out, there are several different avenues of treatment to consider, depending on your preference, resources, and availability.

Contact an animal behaviorist. Ask your veterinarian or a local animal organization to recommend a qualified cat behaviorist. Another option is to ask your vet to consult with Tufts University or one of the other university behavior clinics. For help in finding a behaviorist, visit the Animal Behavior Society.

Use a behavior help line. Here are some examples:
* ASPCA Companion Animal Services Behavior Help Line (New York), 212-876-7700, ext. 4357.
* San Francisco SPCA Behavior Help Line, (California), 415-554-3075. You may leave a voice mail message 24 hours a day. Within 48 hours, a behaviorist will return your call (collect) or they will send you written information.
* University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Behavior Clinic, 215-898-3347. If the clinic is not open at the time of your call, their recorded message will give you their call-in hours for the week.
* Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine Behavior Clinic (Massachusetts), 508-839-7934. This clinic offers consultations for a fee.
* Feline Health Center, Cornell University, Dr. Louis J. Camuti Feline Consultation and Diagnostic Service, 1-800-KITTYDR, open 9 am to 4pm EST, Monday - Friday, except holidays. You will be charged a $35 fee on a major credit card.

Read a book on cat behavior. You may find it helpful to read one of these books:
* "The Cat Who Cried for Help" by Nicholas Dodman
* "Think Like a Cat" by Pam Johnson-Bennett
* "If Only They Could Speak" by Nicholas Dodman

For more information about causes and treatment of feline aggression and how to protect yourself while working through the problem, we also recommend two fact sheets from Best Friends Animal Society: Cat Aggression Towards People and Using Behavior Modification to Help Your Cat.