Whether a British Shorthair cat will hold a grudge after being hit largely depends on the severity of the hit and the cat's individual temperament. If a cat becomes fearful of its owner after being struck, it will often display behaviors such as arching its back, puffing up its fur (also known as 'fluffing up'), hiding, or even becoming aggressive towards the owner.
A cat may or may not hold a grudge after being hit. It is heavily influenced by the force used when hitting and the cat’s normal disposition. For example, if the owner hits the cat very hard and a usually active cat becomes unusually quiet, then it is likely the cat is holding a grudge. A cat holding a grudge may become indifferent to the owner's calls, might lose their appetite, or may even try to sneak out of the house. It is generally advisable to avoid physically hitting a cat as a form of punishment because you may accidentally hurt them.
Signs of Fear in Cats Towards Their Owners
A cat that is afraid of its owner will often actively avoid them. When the owner is home, the cat might hide under the sofa, bed, or stay perched high up and refuse to come down. If the owner tries to approach, the cat may exhibit signs like an arched back, fluffed-up fur, and dilated pupils. If the cat perceives the owner as a threat, it might even lash out with its claws and then try to escape and hide again. Moreover, cats lacking trust in their owners might show signs of anxiety and stress, which can include excessive grooming and reduced appetite. They may also seem constantly on edge.