Why is my cat suddenly aggressive when I pet him? Pain or distress?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Male | neutered | 9 years and 7 months old | 11 lbs
My cat is about 9 years old and he’s healthy. However, tonight when he sat next to me I tried petting him and he got very violent! I thought it’s his legs but he walks just fine, has normal breathing patterns, and eats like usual. The only problem is that even though he still comes to me and lays next to me, he gets aggressive when i try petting him. What should I do? Is it because he’s being grumpy and distressed or is he in pain?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on August 17th, 2018
He may be painful, especially since it sounds like this behavior is new. I would recommend that you take him in to your vet for an exam. Some cats will become over-stimulated when you pet them and act aggressively.... here is some info on that. https://www.petcoach.co/article/petting-related-aggression-in-cats/ But again, for Dodo my concern is that he may be in pain. It could be that he's developed some arthritis, or has injured himself in some way, or he may have a painful abdomen. Your vet will be able to give you more information after doing an exam. Thank you for asking PetCoach!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on August 20th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be due to leg pain which can happen from like a soft tissue injury or even a fracture. I recommend that you have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment to see if this seems to be the issue so that it can be treated accordingly. At the very least, pain control medications can be started. Good luck and have a great day!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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