Cats hitting or swatting is a behavior that can stem from various reasons, primarily involving feelings of anger, being threatened, or encountering unfamiliar situations or people.
Firstly, it's possible your cat is reacting to something you've done that has angered it. This might include taking away a favorite toy or disrupting their routine. Secondly, if your cat perceives a person as a threat, particularly someone close to their primary owner, they may act aggressively out of a sense of jealousy or territoriality. They might interpret the person's presence as a challenge to their bond with their human. Finally, if a person unfamiliar to your cat enters their designated space or territory, the cat may react by hitting as a way of establishing boundaries.
How to Handle Stress in Cats After They Hit
If you have accidentally startled or hurt your cat, and they exhibit signs of stress, it's important to handle the situation calmly and carefully:
1. Immediately cease any actions that may be causing your cat to feel uneasy. It's essential to create a calm and stable environment so they can recover. This means avoiding loud noises, sudden movements, or anything else that could exacerbate their anxiety.
2. Create a secure environment. This should include giving your cat some spaces where they can hide. Cats feel safest when they have a secluded space they can retreat to. Consider providing boxes, cat trees with hideaways, or quiet areas they can easily access.
3. Try using calming products like Feliway or lavender essential oils. These products can sometimes help reduce a cat's stress level and encourage relaxation. Please ensure that essential oils are diffused properly and not applied directly to your cat as this can be toxic.
4. It is crucial to move away from the habit of physically hitting a cat. Instead, seek positive and constructive methods to address any behavioral issues. Hitting a cat can escalate the problem, make them more anxious, and damage your bond. Patience and gentle interactions are essential.
5. If possible, talk to your cat in a soft and comforting voice. You can also use treats that they enjoy to help calm them and alleviate their tension.