Why Do Cats Get Angry? Learn the Reasons and How to Deal With It!

Even if you want to live peacefully with your cat, many owners are surprised when their cat suddenly hisses at them, scratches them, or bites them, causing them to bleed.

It can be confusing when you don't know why your cat is angry.

In this article, we would like to explain why cats get angry, their behavioral signs when they are upset, and how to deal with the situation.

Why Cats Get Angry

First, let's consider the reasons why a cat gets angry. Aside from fighting, there are other reasons why cats lash out.

They were startled by a loud noise

Cats have excellent hearing and are sensitive to even small sounds. If there is a loud noise, they may get startled and take their frustration out on nearby cats or their owners. Sometimes, they may even get angry if they are startled by their owner sneezing.

You touched them where they didn't want to be touched

A cat's paws, tail tips, and paw pads are highly sensitive areas packed with nerves. They will get angry if these are touched, even by their owner. They also dislike having their belly touched, as it is a vulnerable area.

Petting them persistently or picking them up against their will can also cause your cat to get angry.

Their meal was interrupted

Cats feel vulnerable while eating, so if you reach out or touch their body, they may reflexively bite or scratch. It’s not just cats—nobody likes being interrupted while eating, right?

Their territory was invaded

Even strictly indoor cats have a sense of territory. If they get along with their housemates, there won't be any fights, but otherwise, they will try to drive them away by threatening them. Caution is also needed when introducing a new cat.

Also, during mating season, their mood may become unsettled, and they may become more irritable. It is best to leave them alone rather than scold them.

They were treated to something unpleasant

If you persistently bother your cat or take away their toys, they will naturally get angry.

Additionally, they often get angry about being bathed or taken to the vet. Some cats will start acting angry the moment they sense a bath or a vet visit is coming.Feelings of anxiety and fear can sometimes manifest as "anger."

They are in pain from an injury or illness

If your cat suddenly gets angry while you are petting them, it may be because they are in "pain" due to an injury or illness. Try to check gently, within reasonable limits, where they get angry when touched.

If your cat seems unusual—for example, if they are licking the same spot repeatedly or have stopped grooming themselves—please consult a veterinarian immediately.

Behavioral signs that a cat is angry

Before a cat acts out by biting or scratching, signs of irritation, anxiety, or fear usually appear first.

To understand your cat's feelings, it is important to recognize the behaviors they exhibit when they are angry.

Thumping their tail

While a dog wagging its tail usually means it is happy, the opposite is true for cats. A cat thumping its tail is a sign of irritation. As their frustration levels rise, the tail will swing more widely and rapidly.

Turning their whiskers and ears backward

When a cat is surprised or feels scared, its whiskers and ears will flatten backward. This is a defensive sign intended to protect itself, and it may indicate that the cat is experiencing some form of stress.

"Squid ears" (airplane ears)

It is well known that cats get "squid ears" when they are irritated. They are called this because the way their ears flatten horizontally resembles a squid.

While they may also do this when focusing on something interesting, they also do it when wary of something unknown or when they are feeling dissatisfied and angry.Because they are in an aggressive state, avoid reaching out to them carelessly.

Threatening with vocalizations

When they are growling with a low "wooo" or hissing, they are quite angry. This is a warning to stay away, so make sure to distance yourself from the area.

Raising their fur

When a cat has its fur standing on end, its tail puffed up, and is showing its teeth while hissing, it is in full battle mode. It is making itself look bigger and is ready to pounce at any moment.

How to deal with an angry cat

When your cute cat is angry, you might want to try to improve their mood. However, petting them or dangling toys in front of them is counterproductive. It is better to leave them alone for a while.

Even if you were the one who startled the cat or did something they disliked, the first step is to create some distance and leave them be.

Once they have calmed down, try gently calling their name and offering them a treat or some food. Since some cases involve "secret" anger, keep observing their ears and tail movements.

Summary

It is said that when an owner scolds their child, the cat may sometimes hiss at the owner or jump in to bite them to put an end to it.

The fact that they would get angry to protect a child really shows the depth of a cat's affection.

Cats are cute even when they are angry, but intentionally provoking them or paying them too much attention is a no-go. This causes them stress and can damage the bond of trust you have with them.

There is always a reason when a cat gets angry. Remember that sometimes, anxiety and fear manifest as anger. Try to eliminate whatever makes your cat feel uncomfortable or afraid, and find ways to ensure they can live a peaceful life.

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