Animal Irritability & Aggression

Animals have many ways of showing aggression and irritability.

Though all animals exhibit different behavior, there are some common behaviors they use to display irritability or aggression. Being able to identify such behavior is the safest way to avoid a confrontation with an animal.

Teeth

One of the most common signs of aggression in animals is a display of their teeth. For example, an aggressive dog will bar his teeth, as if to say, "You sure you want to mess with these?"

Fidgeting & Twitching

Fidgeting or twitching is a common sign of irritability in animals. A good example is how cats flick their tales to convey annoyance.

Ready to Strike

If an animal feels threatened it could quickly turn to aggression to protect itself. Many animals have clear stances that say they're about to strike. For instance, a snake about to strike will often raise its upper body and arch its spine in an "S" shape.

Vocalization

Growling and roaring are common signs of irritation or aggression. If an animal is growling at you, slowly back away; moving quickly could startle the animal into attacking.

Avoidance

One of the clearest signs of irritability is an animal's trying to distance herself from you. If an animal insists on being alone, the irritation could turn to aggression if you don't let her be.

References

• ACNP: Animal Models of Aggression
• Ark Animals: Pet Aggression

Resources

• Uncle Matty: Types of Aggression in Dogs