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Why is my cat acting aggressive? How can I help her behavior?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year old | 10 lbs

I believe my cat is mentally unstable. She shows random agressive behavior, I just want to know where to start about getting her the help she needs

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on May 23rd, 2017

Random aggressive behavior can sometimes indicate pain or an underlying health issue so a good first step would be to schedule a vet visit for Espn. It is also getting to summertime in the US, and if she is unspayed her hormones could be getting her ready to go into heat and thus changing her behavior as well. Spaying can help this. If she checks out healthy, then looking for signs of stress around the house such as other pets, new people, etc can help you pinpoint any triggers setting off her behavior. A calming pheromone collar or plug in can also help reduce stress in addition to making sure she has access to food, water, litter and bedding without being bothered by pets or people. If the behavior continues even with a health check and changes, then seeking out a trainer or veterinary behaviorist in your area is a good next step as they can help formulate a more tailored treatment and training plan.

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Related Answers from Veterinarians

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on January 4th, 2019

    Sudden aggression and behavior changes in cats can sometimes indicate pain or underlying illness. I would make sure to schedule a vet checkup to rule out any health issues that could be causing the behavior. If she checks out healthy, making sure all of the cats have their own access to food, water, litter, bedding, places to hide, etc can help decrease inter-cat tension. Spending some time with each, and giving your cat a break if she becomes too irritated or agitated may help as well. If the behavior persists or worsens, speaking with a trainer or behaviorist in person is a good next step as well.

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 22nd, 2019

    She may not be getting enough stimulation inside and she may be attacking for attention or secondary to stress. You could try playing with her for 20-30 minutes a day and offering plenty of toys for indoor enrichment. This information on aggression in cats could also help: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/common-cat-behavior-issues/aggression-cats

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 27th, 2020

    This happens a lot when one cat is taken from the others and then re-introduced. They have to figure out who is the boss all over again. I think she is just stressed from all the movement. I suggest you get some Feliway Multicat Diffusers (happy cat pheromones) to use in the house and just try not to stress her too much. Leave her be and don't force interaction. https://worldtails.securevetsource.com/itemView/view/198944_HomeDelivery.pml?productId=117322

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