How to Help if a Kitty Is Angry
Cats that have been traumatized or abused can act much like a human would in a bad situation; they get angry. An angry cat will hide, evade human contact, hiss and if cornered even bite or scratch. Sometimes your own pet cat may begin displaying antisocial and hostile behavior, which may be the result of illness or changes in the cat's environment. The best way to deal with an angry cat is to give it a consistent, quiet and gentle atmosphere to allow it to calm down or to slowly grow to trust you.
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Instructions
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If a normally happy cat begins behaving aggressively, it could be the result of an underlying illness. Take the cat to the veterinarian for a checkup.
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Use toys to play with your cat. If a cat displays aggression only when playing, it probably was taken away from its mother too early. A mother cat and sibling kittens will teach a baby cat to withdraw its claws at play. If your cat is clawing or scratching you while at play, tie a feather to a sting and pole and keep your hands well out of the way.
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Allow the cat time to adjust to a new environment. If you have recently moved or otherwise changed the cat's environment, it may display aggressive or angry behavior. Wait for things to get settled and provide a quiet, safe, secluded space for the cat to remove itself from any extraordinary activity in the home.
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Let the cat come to you. Don't challenge or attempt to hold or otherwise restrain an angry cat. It will become more fearful and is likely to act out by scratching or biting.
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Feed and care for the cat consistently and conscientiously.
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Watch for signs of fear. A scared or angry cat will pin its ears, twitch its tail, hiss or growl. If the cat is staring at you with large pupils, it may be scared. Avoid contact with the animal when it displays these behaviors.
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Keep noise to a minimum around the cat. Loud noises, angry voices and rambunctious children will further traumatize the cat.
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Avoid trying to discipline the animal. Using spray bottles or yelling at the cat to discipline it will make it fearful and distrustful of you.
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Handle a well-adjusted cat in front of the angry animal. If you have another cat that is happy, handling it and petting it in the presence of the traumatized animals will show it that you can be trusted.
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Give the cat gentle pats and strokes when it approaches you. Don't make too much of a fuss when the animals starts to warm to you. Talk to it in a low voice and offer a slow, gentle stroke or two at first until the animal gets comfortable being touched.
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Tips & Warnings
Be patient. Cats can take a long time to gain trust when they have been abused.
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