Pet Resources & Directory

Understanding a cats behavior can be difficult at times but it is the key to be able to know what your cat needs and wants. By being able to interpret their behavior we can better care for them. One of the behaviors is playtime aggression. This aggression can be viewed as cute when you are raising kittens but it is no longer cute when that aggression is getting too rough. You will realize this when you notice several deep scratches on your hands from playing with your cat or kitten. It is best to stop this aggressive behavior when your cat is still young so that it will not be an ongoing habit. Try to avoid any aggressive interaction between your hands and your kitten, as young as she may be.

It is very normal for kitten to be aggressive because they are only mimicking adult behavior. It is instinctive for kittens to want to learn and practice being hunters and fighters. It is probably best to have another kitten or cat around so that your cat can place it's aggression on a suitable playmate instead of your delicate hands. Cats are aware of each others boundaries and thresholds that is why they are able to play aggressively without hurting each other. It is obvious that making the decision to take in a second kitten is something to think about since it involves one more responsibility. However, if you can provide a home for another kitten, remember that in terms of kitten behavior, raising two kittens is actually easier than raising one. They keep each other occupied and make the best playmates for any kind of kitty play, aggressive types included.

It is also interesting to learn about the ways that cats communicate. Cats have a whole range of vocal sounds that all have a meaning and purpose. Cat chat can be very meaningful, even though cats also use a variety of other communications media, other than sounds, such as body posture and scent marking. Almost all cats use some form of vocal communication, but some do more often and more intensively. Certain breeds are more talkative than others. Siamese cats are well known for being the vocalists of the cat world, while Persians tend to be quieter. The most famous cat sound is the meow, which has many versions of different lengths, pitches and pace. Other familiar cat sounds are the aggressive hisses and growls, the howls of females in heat, the chirp and chatter of hunting cats and the famous purr.

Meows are directed almost exclusively at humans. In the cat-to-cat context these sounds are made most often between mother and kitten and not between adult cats. The pitch of the meow can help you understand its meaning. The lower the sound, the more agitated the cat is. If the sound is high toned, than the cat is probably quite happy to convey his message. A welcome meow is usually quite high pitched. Chirps and chatters can sometimes be heard when a cat looks at potential prey without being able to reach it. Many owners of inside only cats hear these sounds while their cat is bird watching. The sounds are often accompanied by rapid clicking of the teeth. With time you will soon understand what message your cat is trying to convey to you. Weither it be it's hungry, thirsty or wants to play, it will become very clear to you as you learn more about your cats behaviors.