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Aggression is usually a defensive action. Cats are fiercely territorial and are generally solitary animals. If a cat's territory is threatened by another it will stand its ground and behave aggressively to warn of the threat.
Aggression is very complex in cats and can be broken down in to many categories such as learned aggression and fear aggression
If we are faced with the formidable weaponry that our feline friends behold we generally either retreat rapidly and don't consider the reason for the outburst or we fight fire with fire and retaliate with aggression. Usually aggression for the cat is a last resort.
Learned aggression
Some owner will actually reward a cat who displays aggressive behaviour. The cat therefore has the owner exactly where he wants the situation to be. He may bite or scratch his owner the owner to diffuse the situation will give the cat a treat. The cat therefore learns that his behaviour earns him a reward and gets him what he wants.
Most Learned aggression can be 'unlearnt'. If the cat does not receive what he wants he will start to omit it from his behavioural repertoire. Aversion techniques such as a water pistol will surprise the cat without harming him and he will soon learn that this is his 'new reward' and the unacceptable behaviour should stop. Physical punishment should not be used at all as it will only encourage the cat to continue with aggressive behaviour.
Fear aggression
Some times a cat will lash out for what appears to be no reason at all. Cats that behave like this are best left alone to calm down before approaching, even if you know the cat very well. Try to work out what maybe upseting the cat and forcing it to express its displeasure towards you.
The reason for your cat's behaviour maybe due to an underlying medical reason. If you are concerned about your cat, always consult your vet or a cat behaviourist for professional, qualified advice.
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