If Your Cat’s Hissing, Here’s What You Need to Do Right Away
It’s normal to be astonished and horrified when your cat hisses at you, but understanding what underlies such behavior may help you respond in the appropriate manner. Hissing is a typical habit for cats, and your cat is hissing at you in order to communicate with you. As soon as this occurs, you must take three immediate actions to prevent more damage. Consistently doing these actions can help your cat establish trust in you and your family while also preventing your cat from engaging in this behavior.
Why cats hiss
Then, what exactly does it signify when a cat hisses. There are a variety of reasons why cats hiss.
- Your cat is concerned about its safety: For example, if your cat feels threatened by you, another family member, or even another pet is one of the most prevalent scenarios. You may notice that your cat hisses when you reach out to pet her. This is her way of telling you that she isn’t comfortable, and if you continue to approach her, she may swat or bite you in retaliation. In a similar vein, if another animal enters your cat’s area, your cat may hiss to warn him to go. Your cat has become a new mother: When your cat is around young kittens, you may notice that she hisses more frequently than usual. In order to defend their young, mother cats hiss, and a cat that is typically laid-back may hiss at you more when she is caring for her kittens. Your cat feels agitated and fearful as a result of: When confronted with an unfamiliar environment, such as moving into a new house, your cat may hiss in response to movements, noises, and other uncomfortable characteristics that she is not accustomed to
- Nevertheless, this is not uncommon. Your pet is in distress: If you injure your cat by touching or picking her up in an inappropriate manner, she may hiss in return.
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What to do if you have a hissing cat
When your cat hisses, it’s crucial to figure out what’s causing the behavior and then take the necessary actions to help your cat feel more comfortable in its environment. If you’ve cornered your cat or shocked her with a pat, it’s likely that she’s hissing in response to your presence. If this happens only once in a while, it’s better to back up and give your cat some space before approaching her again when she’s calmer and more conscious of your presence. If you have a new cat, she may hiss when you approach her because she feels threatened by your presence.
Set up a special space in your home for your new cat, such as a separate room where no other pets or family members are permitted to enter.
This may be able to relieve some of the pressure she is feeling.
In general, when cats hiss, they do the following:
- Take a step back and give your cat some room. Make an effort to determine and treat the underlying reason of the behavior.
STRH/Pixabay
When hissing means more
Based on the scenario, you should be able to figure out why your cat is hissing in the majority of situations. A trapped, frightened, or anxious cat would instinctively attempt to scare away potential attackers, which is why hissing is known. However, your cat may hiss for no apparent reason at times, such as when you pick her up or pet her. An underlying medical condition might be at fault if this suddenly becomes an abnormal pattern of behavior. If you are unable to determine the source of your cat’s hissing, it is recommended that you take her to the veterinarian for a checkup.
Your cat should be more comfortable after the discomfort is alleviated, and the strange hissing habit should be eliminated.
Instead of swatting or biting you, your cat will hiss in order to persuade you to back away and to demonstrate that she is unhappy with your presence.
Given enough room and the proper response when she hisses, you may earn her trust and she will likely hiss less frequently in the future.
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5 Ways to Stop Cat Aggression And Bad Behavior
The image is courtesy of Getty Images. Is your kitten being excessively assertive? They grasp your feet and claw at your ankles when they shouldn’t be doing so. How many times have they appeared normal one minute, only to hiss and claw at you or a visiting visitor the next? A cat’s nervous system can become overstimulated when there is too much pent-up energy and no suitable method to release it. Boredom, insecurity, and even feral cats straying too close to your property are all possible reasons for this phenomenon.
1. Play Time
The result of not providing enough attention and play for your cat is that they will build up a lot of pent up energy that will need to be released. This can manifest itself in the form of aggressive behavior, such as hissing and clawing at you at odd intervals, attacking other pets, or meowing incessantly throughout the night. Cats do this because they just do not know how to channel all of their excess energy in a constructive manner unless you demonstrate to them how to accomplish this. When it comes to cat entertainment, you have a lot of alternatives.
Cats also enjoy those “red dot” laser pointer toys – just be careful not to flash the laser pointer directly into kitty’s eyes!
Playing with your cat on a daily basis can help to burn off excess energy and keep them relaxed.
2. The ‘FFFF’Sound
The image is courtesy of Getty Images. Cats interact with each other through movement, eye contact, tail and head bumps, and hissing sounds, among other things. If you replicate your cat’s language, they’ll be more aware of when they’re doing something incorrectly than otherwise. If you begin when they are kittens, they will be able to learn the language much more quickly. Making a lengthy “fffff” sound imitates a hiss and may be used to swiftly communicate to your cat that their present behavior is not acceptable.
The importance of repetition and follow-through cannot be overemphasized.
Instead, make the sound and then avoid love for a few minutes.
3. Calming Herbal Products And Plugins
The image is courtesy of Getty Images. The use of soothing herbal remedies and plugins that send a relaxing aroma throughout the room are highly recommended by many cat specialists. Some herbal supplements are designed to mimic the natural soothing pheromones produced by cats.
Install them in the areas of your home where your cat has the greatest difficulty. For example, if they become agitated and aggressive in the living room, place a plugin in that location. The relaxing smell reassures cat that everything is in working order.
4. Distract Strays
The image is courtesy of Getty Images. If your cat sees another stray cat strolling about outside, he or she may get nervous and aggressive. This cat’s fragrance, which your cat can detect even while within your home, causes your cat to believe that their home is in danger, causing them to flee. Consider the possibility that an unknown individual was circling your property and peering inside. You would experience anxiety and aggression as well! Find a technique to deter the guest for the sake of your cat.
The moderate water spray will entice the stray cat to depart without injuring it or causing it any discomfort.
5. Cat Trees
Finally, tall cat trees are an excellent approach to assist an overly aggressive kitten feel more in control of his or her surroundings. Occasionally, a cat’s hostility will manifest itself because the cat perceives itself to be helpless or weak. The presence of other cats or dogs, as well as other adults or children in the house, may be intimidating to them. It makes them feel safer and gives them a greater perspective of what’s going on in their surroundings because a cat tree is elevated above the ground.
- In certain cases, a cat tree might even encourage shy cats to come out of their shell and hang out when humans come to visit.
- Just keep in mind that negative behavior does not always imply that your cat is bad.
- If you believe that they have a health problem, take them to the veterinarian.
- Wishing you the best of luck!
- What methods do you use to remedy undesirable behaviors?
How to Get Your Cat to Stop Hissing
Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation Contrary to popular assumption, a hissing cat is not behaving negatively or expressing aggressiveness, as is sometimes assumed. When a cat hisses, it is usually because something is wrong, which may or may not be related to aggressive impulses. First and foremost, in order to stop a cat from hissing, you must determine what is causing the cat distress, and then go from there.
- 1 Recognize the reasons why cats hiss. Cats do not hiss to demonstrate dominance or to threaten other animals in the typical way. They hiss most often when they are feeling vulnerable, frightened, or in discomfort. Cats, on the other hand, may hiss out of aggressiveness. In any case, attempting to punish a hissing cat will simply make it more agitated, and it is likely to hiss much more as a result.
- Growling and yowling are more likely to be heard from a cat when it is being hostile. Allow your cat some room until you can figure out what is causing him to hiss.
- 2 Recognize the signs and symptoms of aggressive behavior. However, while every cat is different, there are several traits that nearly always accompany hissing when the behavior is an indication of hostility
- For example, the cat will hiss when he feels threatened.
- Using the front paws to swat or scratch the ground
- A person or another animal being bitten
- Growling, screeching, or yowling are all acceptable expressions. With the exception of fangs and/or claws
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- s3 Look for any recent modifications. Have you just relocated with your cat to a new house or apartment? Is it possible that you’ve adopted a new pet into the family? What do you think about getting a new roommate? Have you made any changes to the furniture arrangement? Almost any of these things might make your cat feel “odd,” and it’s probable that your cat’s anxiety or uncertainty will be communicated through hissing
- 4 Consider taking your pet to the veterinarian. In the event that your cat is hissing and there hasn’t been any change in either his environment or his disposition, it’s possible that he is hissing because he is in discomfort. Consider bringing your cat in for a checkup with your local veterinarian. Advertisement
- 1Allow your cat to become acclimated. No matter if you’ve recently adopted a new pet or relocated, your cat will most likely require some time to become used to his new surroundings. 2 Introducing new pets in a safe and regulated environment is recommended. Perhaps it would be best to introduce them in a neutral setting outside of your house so that they can become acquainted without each pet feeling intruded upon
- Keep your new pet away from your present cat(s), and give it with its own food, water, and litter box if you are introducing it into your house. Make it possible for your dogs to mingle in your house gradually, over a period ranging from several days to many weeks. Introduce them through scent first, by allowing each cat to lie on a piece of your old clothes that has your aroma on it as an intermediary between the two of them. The following night, switch the clothes around so that the cats may catch a smell of each other’s fragrance. This “Scent handshake” might help to smooth over the awkwardness of the first meeting as they get to know one another. Continue to confine a violent cat to his carrier during introductions, especially if he has hissed or showed other hostile behavior toward the new pet
- Humans are frequently unable to identify cat smell imprints. To check for cat urine stains on walls and furniture, use a portable blacklight, which can be purchased at any pet supply store.
- 3 Examine your cat for signs of injury. When cats fight, they are frequently injured in ways that are not immediately evident. Taking your time to approach the cat and carefully moving your hands over its body in search of delicate places will allow you to conduct a thorough examination. Avoid poking or prodding anything since your cat will alert you if you’ve discovered one. If you discover an injury, take the cat to the veterinarian or animal hospital as soon as possible.
- Injuries to the head, chest, and legs are particularly common in combat situations. Be extremely cautious, since a wounded cat can lash out in an attempt to protect itself, and this can result in catastrophic harm.
- 4Consider having your cat neutered. In the case of a male cat that exhibits extreme hostility and hissing, it’s probable that he’s hyper-territorial in nature. Neutering an aggressive male cat may aid in the correction of this behavior as well as the reduction of his undesired aggressiveness. Advertisement
- Four, you might want to consider having your cat neutered. In the case of a male cat that exhibits extreme hostility and hissing, it’s probable that he is hyper-territorial in nature. Neutering an aggressive male cat may aid in the correction of this behavior as well as the reduction of his undesired aggressive behavior. Advertisement
- 4Think about having your cat neutered. You may have a hyper-territorial male cat if your male cat displays extreme hostility, such as hissing. Neutering an aggressive male cat may aid in the correction of this behavior and the reduction of his unwanted hostility. Advertisement
- 2Take care to avoid being the target of misdirected hostility. In other cases, a hissing cat may be signaling to you that he is feeling intimidated by a neighboring cat or dog that has challenged your cat via a window or screen door. Consider keeping the curtains and door closed as much as possible if you suspect this is the case. 3 Consider whether or not your cat is fearful of other cats or people. A prior owner, or even someone who presently interacts with your cat, might have physically injured or neglected your cat.
- Investigate how other people treat the cat in order to learn more. If someone or something is causing injury to or harassing your cat and you are not aware of it, is there a possibility that you may become ill as a result? Obtain information from others, and keep a tight check on children who may not be aware of basic cat care. If you have reason to believe that your cat is being harmed while you are away, try installing a nanny cam or setting up a laptop or phone to surreptitiously video the cat’s environment for a few days
- Otherwise, consult your veterinarian.
- 1 Give your cat plenty of room and time to calm down and relax. When your cat hisses, take a step back. It is critical that a cat does not feel confined or frightened, therefore avoid confining it in a small space. Simple things like keeping a door open a gap so that the cat knows it may escape if it has to can help calm a nervous animal.
- When approaching a scared cat, walk slowly and allow it plenty of time to acclimate to your presence and scent
- Otherwise, the cat may get aggressive. It’s best not to stare at a worried cat. When a cat stares at you, it may be seen as an aggressive gesture. If your cat does manage to escape from the room, do not pursue after it. That will just exacerbate its nervousness. Ensure that youngsters and guests are aware of the need of giving your cat space and not attempting to coerce it into becoming friendly.
- It’s best to approach an anxious cat slowly and allow it plenty of time to get used to your presence and scent. It’s best not to stare at a tense cat. When a cat stares at you, it might be seen as an aggressive gesture. Rather of chasing after your cat if it escapes from the room, ignore the situation. As a result, it will get more anxious. Children and guests should be warned to allow your cat room and not to try to coax it into becoming friendly.
- If your cat is an indoor animal, you can use cayenne pepper or a specially formulated cat repellent around the perimeter of your yard to try to deter other cats from intruding
- If your cat is an outdoor animal, you can use cayenne pepper or a specially formulated cat repellent around the perimeter of your yard to try to deter other cats from intruding
- If your cat is an indoor animal, you can use cayenne pepper or a specially formulated cat repellent around
- 3 Provide the cat with sufficient supplies and a safe haven. If your cat is freaked out due to the arrival of a new baby or pet, time will usually alleviate the situation, but you can help your cat even more by providing him with plenty of resources and hiding places.
- A high climbing post or a kitty shelf are good options for providing the cat with a perch where he will be out of reach of any would-be bothersome people. High-level access provides greater security for cats
- If you have many cats, make sure there are adequate litter boxes, food dishes, and water bowls for each of them. Cats are considerably happy when they are not required to share their food.
- 4Invest in some new gadgets. Increase the amount of time you spend playing with your cat and experiment with different techniques to stimulate him. Hidden snacks around the home where your cat may discover them are a good idea, and never underestimate the soothing properties of catnip
- 5Consider using a pheromone spray. Products on the market that release calming pheromones into the air can assist to relieve the tension of cats in a variety of situations. In order to get a precise advice, speak with your veterinarian or a local pet store. These items can be expensive, but they may be well worth the investment. 6 Consult your veterinarian for further information. If you are still unable to determine what is causing your cat’s discomfort or how to resolve the situation, take your cat to the veterinarian. You might not be able to see what is physically wrong with your cat, or the veterinarian could have ideas for medicine or other therapies that will help calm your worried animal. Advertisement
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- Question What signs should I look for when my cat is agitated or scared? The owner of Boston Veterinary Clinic, Brian Bourquin, also known as “Dr. B” to his clientele, is a veterinarian and the owner of the South End/Bay Village facility as well as three other locations in Massachusetts: the Seaport in Boston and Brookline. The Boston Veterinarian Clinic specializes on basic veterinary care, which includes wellness and preventative care, ill and emergency treatment, soft-tissue surgery, and dentistry for pets and livestock. Specialty services are also available, including behavioral and nutritional counseling, as well as alternative pain management techniques, such as acupuncture and therapeutic laser treatments A member of the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association), the Boston Veterinary Clinic is also the city’s first Fear Free Certified Clinic. The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Brian has obtained from Cornell University is the culmination of nearly 19 years of veterinary expertise. Answer from a veterinarian expert
- Question Do cats enjoy it when they are handled? The owner of Boston Veterinary Clinic, Brian Bourquin, also known as “Dr. B” to his clientele, is a veterinarian and the owner of the South End/Bay Village facility as well as three other locations in Massachusetts: the Seaport in Boston and Brookline. The Boston Veterinarian Clinic specializes on basic veterinary care, which includes wellness and preventative care, ill and emergency treatment, soft-tissue surgery, and dentistry for pets and livestock. Specialty services are also available, including behavioral and nutritional counseling, as well as alternative pain management techniques, such as acupuncture and therapeutic laser treatments A member of the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association), the Boston Veterinary Clinic is also the city’s first Fear Free Certified Clinic. The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Brian has obtained from Cornell University is the culmination of nearly 19 years of veterinary expertise. Expert AnswerSupport wiki for veterinarians How? By gaining access to this expert response. Cats aren’t always eager to be petted or held all the time. Depending on the situation, some will enable you to do so, while with others, you just must learn to read their signs. The majority of cats do not appreciate having their bellies or tails handled
- Question I have two cats that are brothers and have been together since the beginning of time. I had to take one of them to the vet yesterday, and ever since I got him back, the other has hissed whenever he sees him come near him. What might be the source of this problem? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Contribute to wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer provided by a veterinarian. After being handled at the vet’s office, the cat who had his ears cleaned now smells different, and his brother is perplexed since he appears to be the same as his brother but does not have the aroma that he should have. Make sure to keep the cat that went to the vet in a separate room for a couple of days so that he may get used to the smell of home. My new cat had a hissing fit at my dog. What can I do to help them to get along better with one another? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Contribute to wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer provided by a veterinarian. Cats are known to hiss when they see dogs, so you should introduce them cautiously to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Swap their fragrances back and forth so that they become used to the smell of one another. Allow them to see each other while they are eating by putting up a barrier between them. Always keep an eye on the dog and the cat together. Maintain a tight leash and encourage the dog to sit, praising him for his calm demeanor while allowing the cat to become accustomed to him. Question I have two cats, both of them are female. They are both spayed and up to date on their vaccinations, yet they snarl and hiss at each other and at me when we are together. I’ve tried using a standard spray bottle filled with tap water to deter them, but they continue to do it. What should I do in order to aid my two feline companions? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Expert AnswerSupport wiki for veterinarians How? By gaining access to this expert response. These cats aren’t getting along at all, and they might benefit from some time apart in order to de-escalate the situation. Keep one in a separate room with her own tray, food, bed, and toys, while allowing the other to wander freely throughout the house and play with the other. To get them acclimated to one other, use a fragrance handshake to start the conversation. Stroking one then the other will help to transmit their fragrances from one to the other, so be gentle! Then try feeding them on opposite side of a barrier so that they can see each other but are unable to fight with them. Allow a buddy to play with one of the cats while you play with the other one. Slowly reinstating them should accomplish the desired result.
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About This Article
Summary of the ArticleXIf your cat is hissing, consider giving it some space and time to relax and calm down. Cats hiss when they are agitated or scared, so giving them some space and time to relax and quiet down may help. Spending more time playing with your cat or providing it with new toys might help keep it stimulated and prevent it from becoming nervous. Alternatively, Then, make sure that your cat has an escape route, such as a climbing post or a kitty shelf, that is out of reach of people and other cats.
Continue reading for advice from our Veterinary co-author on how to prevent your cat from hissing at other animals. Did you find this overview to be helpful? The writers of this page have together authored a page that has been read 375,745 times.
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Cats have a diverse repertory of vocalizations, according to specialists, with at least 12 unique ones in all (1). They perform a variety of vocalizations like as meowing, growling, purring, trilling, and howling. Each of these distinct cat noises provides insight into how a cat is feeling at the time. A common activity that conveys fear and serves as a warning to others is cat hissing. However, it is also related with other negative emotions such as rage and distrust. It may also be an indication of a medical problem.
Cat Hissing:How to Identify the Sound
If you’re a cat parent, you’re probably already familiar with the hissing sound that cats make. Dr. Sasha Gibbons, an associate veterinarian at Just Cats Veterinary Hospital in Stamford, Connecticut, describes the sound as being comparable to a snake hiss or the sound of air being evacuated from a vehicle tire as it goes flat, which is exactly what is occurring. Her explanation for the hiss is that it is caused by cats pushing air through their mouths when exhaling. Unlike other cat sounds such as the high-pitched chirp, trill, or meow that are produced in the vocal cords, hisses are produced in the lungs, according to Gibbons.
“And if you get near enough to the cat’s face, you can literally feel the force of air that is expelled from it.” Dr.
“Just as everyone’s voice has a distinct pitch and timbre (tone), so do cats, and this includes the sound they create when they hiss,” she explains.
Why Do Cats Hiss?
However, while it may be easy to imagine that your cat is simply hissing out of nowhere, experts say that it is usually related with negative feelings such as distrust or wrath, displeasure or annoyance, uncertainty, pain or a mix of these. Back off, friend! Hissing is one of the few noises that has minimal ambiguity: back off, buddy! Bennett explains that it is used as a defensive warning to repel an approaching opponent. “Experts believe that hissing is intended to sound like a hissing snake in order to warn away potential assailants.” Insects and animals alike employ mimicry as a survival mechanism to survive.
Why Do Cats Hiss at People?
Bennett explains that cats hiss at people because the cat perceives a threat in the near vicinity. According to her, “his initial inclination is to hiss in the hopes that you would back off.” In most cases, hissing indicates that you have moved too swiftly near the cat or that he is uncertain about what you are about to do. She claims that even a cat with whom you have a deep relationship may hiss at you. In addition, Bennett explains that hissing is a reaction to a current situation and does not imply that the cat disapproves of you.
Dr. Liz Stelow, chief of service of clinical behavior service at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at the University of California, Davis, explains that humans might accidentally cause hissing in a variety of ways. The following are some examples, according to her, of such factors:
- Being pushed into a carrier for travel
- Getting your nails cut and groomed. After playing with their pet outside, the pet parent will come home smelling like the neighbor’s dog or cat
- Making utilization of a vacuum cleaner or any other ominous household device
Cats Hissing at a New Kittens or Other Pets
Bennett explains that because cats build their social structure on the resources available to them, a new pet may be perceived as a threat to those resources. “Because cats are wary of physical fights, they frequently hiss as an initial warning in the expectation that no physical combat would be required.” It is not uncommon for a cat to hiss at a new kitten or cat. Adding to the discussion, Demos says that cats may hiss at new kittens to establish limits, particularly when the boundaries of the existing cat are being challenged.
What To DoIf Your Cat Is Hissing
A new pet might be perceived as a danger to cats’ social structure since cats build their social structure on the availability of resources, according to Bennett. “Because cats dislike physical fights, they frequently utilize the hiss as a first warning in the expectation that no physical combat will be required.” It’s not uncommon for a cat to hiss at a new kitten or cat. Adding to the discussion, Demos says that cats may hiss at new kittens to establish limits, particularly when the boundaries of the existing cat are being challenged.” “A hiss is a simple way to urge a kitten to halt what it’s doing.
How ToStop a Cat From Hissing
According to Demos, positive reinforcement like as toys, treats, or canned food can occasionally help ease the anxiety and tension associated with cat hissing. As she advises, “try to do this from a safe distance, rather than up close and in the face of any cats participating in the issue.” Additionally, if you have many cats in your home, make sure that each cat gets their own food bowl, toys, and room. In addition, Demos recommends that parents provide their children with different dishes to eat from and distinct toys to play with, preferably in separate rooms or at the very least out of sight range.
How To Prevent a Cat From Hissing
Bennett believes that cat hissing happens frequently as a result of a pet parent’s failure to notice other indications that suggest probable distress in the cat. “Attend more closely to your cat’s body language, and also give him or her a choice when it comes to interaction so that he or she never feels trapped.”
Examine Deeper Causes of Cat Hissing
According to Stelow, who is board-certified in veterinary behavior, a cat who hisses regularly at people or other pets may be extremely uncomfortable or fearful. As she explains, “this nervousness should be handled in order for the cat to feel more comfortable in its environment.” “The first port of call should be a visit to the veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist.” If your cats hiss at each other on a regular basis, you may be able to improve their relationship via behavior modification.
“Aggression can erupt abruptly amongst cats that had been getting along perfectly for months or years,” says the author.
Extreme hissing is always a symptom of fear, according to Stelow, regardless of the circumstances. ‘This should not be disregarded, and the root causes as well as solutions should be identified.’
5 HelpfulCalming Products to Try
All of the goods that appear on this page were picked by the author at his or her discretion. Great Pet Care may, however, receive a small affiliate compensation if you click over and make a purchase through their website. A cat’s hissing noises might indicate that it is extremely anxious and that it needs to communicate with someone. Despite the fact that it may appear to be hostile or frightening, it is only your cat demonstrating natural feline behavior. Some cats don’t want to be disturbed, while others hiss in response to the stresses of daily life, such as a loud noise.
We’ve gathered five of our favorite cat soothing solutions for you to use in the case that your feline companion has regular hissing episodes.
The Anxious Pet Organic CBD Hemp Oil For Cats
Although CBD hemp oil for dogs receives the majority of attention, cats can also benefit from the various supporting mechanisms that CBD hemp oil provides. It not only helps to promote tranquility and reduce anxiety-related behavior in cats, but it also helps to improve brain function and immunological health in these animals as well. CBD is not an intoxicating drug in the same way that high quantities of THC are, but it has psychoactive properties. As a consequence, The Anxious Pet’s CBD Hemp Oil has a soothing and calming impact on cat, which helps to lower her anxiety level.
- Safety has been verified by a third party. This medication may also be beneficial for kitty’s seasonal allergies, skin irritation, and inflammation. The easy-to-dispense dropper ensures that the correct dose is administered every time. It can be administered straight into the mouth or applied to meals. The most cost-effective product available on the market as measured in active mg of CBD
- Formulated by a veterinarian
Consider the Following:
- The amount of medication required varies on the size and age of the cat. For some cats, it may require a period of adjustment until the appropriate dose is determined. It is best if it is administered with a full meal that contains some fat.
Comfort Zone Multi-Cat Calming Diffuser For Cats
The use of a relaxing diffuser may be beneficial for cats who hiss at each other throughout the day. Many cat homes rely on this drug-free, non-invasive method of promoting tranquility as a standard practice. 650 square feet are covered by the Comfort Zone diffuser, which can be readily plugged into any standard outlet. The mist replicates the natural soothing pheromones released by cats, signaling to the cat that the environment is familiar and secure. Highlights
- It is completely safe to use with other animals in the house. The Diffuser is good for 30 days before it has to be replaced. Recommended by a veterinarian
- It may be possible to lessen aggressive behavior and conflict in multi-cat households. From the previous version, the enhanced recipe releases twice as many pheromones as the prior version.
Consider the Following:
- Do not use the new Comfort Zone diffuser with the original refills
- Instead, use the original refills. If your cat wanders into more than one room, use a diffuser in each area. The product reportedly lasted three weeks before a refill was necessary, according to some reviews.
Thundershirt for Cats
The Thundershirt is another another drug-free method of keeping your cat calm, preventing stress, and reducing hissing and hissing. Millions of cats have benefitted from our machine-washable, reasonably priced, and easily worn vest throughout the years. It doesn’t matter whether she hisses or gets too active at night or freaks out during veterinarian appointments; Thundershirt provides her with a cocoon of peace. The brand claims an 80 percent success record in a variety of conditions when it comes to keeping kitten calm.
- Contains mild, steady pressure on your cat’s chest, which has a relaxing effect. It is available in three sizes. This garment is made of a fabric that is soft, sturdy, breathable, and washable. It is possible that this medication will help reduce other undesirable habits including as marking, scratching, and excessive meowing. It comes with a detachable collar. When traveling with a leash, it is safe to do so.
Consider the Following:
- Some cats may be completely resistant to wearing any type of clothing at all. The Thundershirt was able to slip out of the Thundershirt, according to some pet parents. Keep an eye on your cat’s behavior as she becomes acclimated to the Thundershirt.
Petstages Rainy Day Puzzle and Play Cat Toy
You should be aware that your cat may be behaving out due to boredom or demanding your attention if he/she is hissing or acting aggressively. Instead of providing her with a toy to play with on her own, why not pique her interest by playing a feline mental game with her? Petstages puzzles and cat toys give cerebral and physical stimulation for your cat’s senses, while also being environmentally friendly.
Feline treat puzzles can be used for everyday feeding as well as to urge cats to consume their food at a faster rate. A cat who is satisfied is a cat who is pleased. Highlights
- Made from food-safe materials that are free of BPA, PVC, and phthalates. In order to keep cats engaged as they learn, pet parents may alter the level of challenge. There are no detachable pieces for a safer play experience. As they bat and swat, cats are encouraged to engage in natural foraging behavior. Dishwasher-friendly
Consider the Following:
- Some pet parents claim that their cat picked up on the game rather fast. It may be necessary for you to sit with your cat in order to stimulate play. Some cats may become irritated if treats or food fall into the game’s crevices
- However, this is rare.
Yogasleep Dohm Classic Sound Machine
Hissing can be a symptom of anxiety or tension. Some cats are extremely sensitive to certain sounds, such as the wailing of newborns, thunderstorms, and traffic. Yogasleep Dohm Classic Sound Machine can help women relax and sleep better at night. Because the machine simulates the sound of blowing air, cats experience a sense of tranquility in the midst of the surrounding background noises. Depending on your cat’s reaction and requirements, you may adjust the tone and volume with two speed settings.
- In the United States of America
- Can be utilized in stressful situations such as grooming, thunderstorms, or other sound-related activities that cause hissing
- It is possible to sleep better at night. Available in a variety of color combinations
- Weighing only 1.6 pounds, this item is both lightweight and robust.
Consider the Following:
- It does not use batteries and must be connected into an electrical socket to function
- There is just one windy sound choice available
- There are no other sound options available.
Cat Hissing:When to Worry
According to Gibbons, a cat who hisses regularly should be assessed by a veterinarian in order to rule out any internal pain or discomfort. It may be necessary to speak with an animal behaviorist if it is established that the hissing is caused by psychological factors. Also applicable are indicators of apparent anguish, as previously stated. “If your cat looks to be in pain, has an injury, or is in danger of damaging another pet or a human in the house, don’t hesitate to seek quick medical attention,” Demos concludes.
- Reduced appetite
- Low levels of energy
- Reclusiveness or other behavioral changes
According to Demos, a cat that does not hiss on a regular basis but suddenly begins to does so may be cause for alarm. The first approach, she explains, is “usually to attempt to obtain a video if there is an odd or new conduct.” It will allow you to show your veterinarian and receive their precise opinions on what is going on. ” Veterinary advice is recommended if you are unsure about the meaning of the hissing or if you notice behavior that is out of the usual, according to Bennett. According to the experts, any change in a cat’s behavior or typical habit should be taken into consideration as a potential warning indicator.
How to Get a Cat to Stop Hissing?
If your cat is generally quiet but suddenly starts hissing, Demos thinks this might be a sign that something is wrong with him. In the case of strange or novel actions, she explains, “the first step is normally to attempt to acquire a film of them.” It will allow you to show your veterinarian and receive their precise opinions on what is going on. Veterinary advice is recommended if you are unsure about the meaning of the hissing or if you notice unusual behavior in your pet, according to Bennett.
How to stop your cat from hissing?
In the event that you are unaware of the reason for your cat’s hissing, the best course of action is to leave your cat alone. Hissing is an indication that your cat is desiring some alone time with you. Remove yourself from the room and wait for him to calm down. After having a hissing fit, a cat would frequently flee and hide in his preferred hiding area. Allow him to be alone in his favorite spot to unwind and relax. It may take a few hours for him to return to his previous state. Just sit and wait for him, restraining yourself from the impulse to rush up to him and calm and soothe him.
Check up on him at his hiding area after a few hours to see if he has calmed down.
If your pet is no longer distressed, you can coax him to come to you by providing him food or a favorite treat that he will enjoy. Make a point of approaching him in a non-threatening fashion. That entails approaching him from the side and refraining from staring straight at him in the eyes.
Reasons why your cat is hissing
He may hiss at everyone in your house, including you, your guests, your children, and other animals, even the other pets in your home. Understanding the underlying habit that is causing his hissing will help you to implement a long-term remedy that will decrease, if not completely eliminate, similar episodes.
1. A warning
The hissing of cats is used as a warning shot against humans and other animals. Cats, in contrast to certain other species, are averse to physical confrontation and combat. Instead, they will employ nonverbal cues such as hissing to deter a person or animal from approaching too close to them. This specific form of hissing can be heard when a cat enters another feline’s territory, when a mother is guarding her kittens, or when a cat is being handled at the veterinarian’s office. Non-neutered felines are also prone to this type of behavior, which is most prominent during mating season.
More significantly, they engage in this activity in order to scare away other cats and stave off any attacks on themselves.
2. Pain
A cat is unable to communicate directly with you if he is in discomfort. When you try to touch your pet, you can usually tell if something is wrong with him because his behavior is abnormally agitated. Your cat hisses at you when you touch a certain section of his body, this might be an indication of discomfort. Sometimes a cat may not even allow you to go near enough to him to pet or groom him.
3. Unfamiliar objects
Cats are creatures of habit, and this is no exception. This idea applies to more than just their daily activities. It can also apply to the environment in which they live. Changes in their surroundings might cause cats to get anxious. Hissing might be triggered by a new piece of décor or furniture that you have recently brought home. As opposed to just introducing new items to a room, especially one that your cat frequents, you should gradually introduce new objects to your cat to reduce his fear.
4. Stress
Because of his tension, your cat may appear less pleasant than he usually is. It is possible for cats to get upset by changes in their surroundings caused by the change in seasonality. Felines are also gifted with excellent hearing and a tactile sense. It is also possible to make a cat uneasy by overpowering his or her senses through the use of loud noises or excessive physical contact.
5. Rough play
Particularly if one of their siblings is being too harsh with them, kittens might hiss at the other. This merely indicates that the kitten does not want the other cat to continue hissing at him.
6. Annoyance
Cats can hiss at their owners if they are irritated by them. In other cases, the only thing your cat wants is to be left alone, and any attempt to connect with him can result in a hissing tantrum. Nothing is seriously wrong with your pet in this situation. Nothing more than for him to be left alone. Your cat may be hissing as a result of your small children’s inability to leave him alone.
Your cat’s energy level may not always be in sync with your child’s energy level. As a result, it is important to keep an eye on the contact between your pet and your child. It is possible that your child will not comprehend the energy and reactions of your pet, resulting in an unpleasant encounter.
Stopping your pet from hissing at your other cats
If you live in a multi-cat household, hissing should not be something that happens on a regular basis. Although it is tough to prevent your cats from hissing at one another, it is not impossible to accomplish this aim. Everything starts with the addition of a new cat to your household. By the time you add a second cat to your household, your first cat will have established himself as the dominant cat in your household. A new cat will be perceived as an invader by a dominant cat. As a result, your first cat will naturally go on the defensive, guarding his territory against your new companion.
- Continue in this manner for a few days more.
- Give each of them a reward to keep the hissing at bay.
- Increasing the length of each connection by a few minutes every day is a good idea.
- Initially, your original cat may believe that your new cat is attempting to take food from him.
- You may either set up separate feeding stations for each cat or feed each cat at a different time each day.
- Provide your cats with their own litter boxes and resting quarters to ensure that they are comfortable.
Why you should not punish your cat for hissing
When your cat hisses at you, the first thing that springs to mind is most likely that you need to discipline your cat for his behavior. Simply said, disciplining your cat does not have any positive results. At the very least, your cat will be unable to comprehend the underlying rationale for the punishment. At the very least, you will have to deal with a vengeful cat. Scolding does not work on cats as effectively as it does on dogs most of the time. If your cat is hissing and clearly unhappy, the best thing you can do is leave him alone until he calms down.
For starters, this will assist your cat in calming down and overcoming his tantrum.
However, in addition to penalizing him for his poor conduct by ignoring him, it is critical to encourage good behavior with rewards.
Eventually, he will understand that hissing is not permitted and that being kind is rewarding.
Stopping your cat from hissing
When your beloved cat hisses at you, it may be upsetting, if not plain obnoxious, to experience. Fire, on the other hand, cannot be extinguished by fire.
If you don’t want to confront or scold your cat, just leave him alone and wait for his rage to cool. While you’re waiting for him to regain his composure, consider the likely causes for his outburst. Image courtesy of istockphoto.com/LexyLovesArt
Introducing a New Cat to Your Other Cats
First impressions between people and their pets are equally as crucial as they are between humans and their pets. By introducing your feline companions to each other gradually and steadily, you may achieve a gratifying outcome for both of them. Here are a few pointers and precautions to take in order to make cat-to-cat introductions as pleasant as possible for everyone concerned. Keep the cats apart for the time being. During the first seven days, keep the new cat in a separate room with food, drink, comfy bedding, a litter box or two, and everything else he will need to be happy and healthy.
- Using Comfort Zone® in conjunction with Feliway® diffusers or spray during this separation, as well as during the first phases of the introduction, is highly recommended.
- While the cats are separated, try to build pleasant connections between them.
- You may also alternate bedding every couple of days to allow them to have a better sense of each other’s aroma.
- Never reprimand the cats for hissing or growling since this might lead to the formation of a bad relationship between the other cat and you.
- If there is no hissing within seven days of your new cat’s arrival, simply open the door and allow the cats to explore the house on their own.
- Make sure you have some tasty sweets on available so that they may enjoy a pleasurable time together right immediately.
- Do not be surprised if you hear some hissing when they see each other for the first time.
If the hissing continues after 1 or 2 minutes, or if there is any indication of a threat, separate them immediately (swatting with force, chasing, screaming, ears flattened, etc.).
If it takes more than seven days for the hissing to stop, it is necessary to go more slowly.
Continue to provide goodies to the kitties that are on opposite sides of the front entrance.
When they see each other, compliment them for being cool.
Keep in mind that the initial introduction should take place at a time when the cats are relaxed, such as right after a meal or play session.
It is possible that your uneasiness will be translated into anxiety by the cats, resulting in a less than smooth introduction.
Once they are accustomed to spending 4 or 5 hours together without incident on a regular basis, you should be able to give both cats free rein of the house overnight and while you are gone.
For the first several weeks, keep a separate litter box and food space for the new cat in his room, just in case.
Providing the cats are getting along after a few weeks of living together, you may attempt to forego the additional feeding and drinking dishes if you have to, but keep an eye out for signs of antagonism or stress and replace the bowls if necessary.
If you would like to speak with a Behavior Specialist from the Anti-Cruelty Society about this behavior subject, please contact 312-645-8253 or email [email protected].
Why Is My Cat Hissing at Me?
Slappy was the name of a cat that belonged to my brother. She like the sensation of having her butt spanked. It was love at first sight for Slappy cat the first time she and I met. She’d brush up against me and rave about how pleased Slappy sounds like there was no future like there was no tomorrow. But then came the day after tomorrow. And on that note, Slappy realized out I had pets the following day. Slappy was not pleased with the situation. She shouted at me, enraged by my treachery, and I felt her hatred.
- For her, there was no turning back now.
- There are only hisses.
- Here are some possible explanations for why your cat may be hissing at you.
- Hint: it has nothing to do with hatred.
Reasons cats hiss at you
Instead of me, Slappy’s hissing was targeted for my interested dogs rather than for me. At least, that’s what I persuade myself to be the case. Cats might be frightened by unfamiliar objects in their environment, according to VetStreet. They may hiss aggressively when confronted by unknown individuals, other pets, or things, expressing their dread of them. What to do is as follows: Whether your cat is fearful of you, a human visitor in your house, or another pet, PetMD recommends that you give your cat some space.
Slowly back away from the cat and give him or her the opportunity to determine when he or she wants to be near you again.
Desensitizing your cat may be accomplished by progressively introducing him or her to the frightening item while concurrently providing them with something they enjoy, such as treats or belly rubs.
2. Stress
When a cat’s surroundings is disrupted, he or she will get distressed. According to PetMD, cats are not good at dealing with stress. They seek to avoid conflict at all costs and are more likely to escape or freeze. Some, on the other hand, go into protective mode and hiss. When it comes to taking your cat to the doctor, have you ever tried to fit him into a carrier? This seemingly easy operation may turn into an all-morning ordeal if not done properly. Moving. That is a significant occasion that can give cats a great deal of anxiety.
Perhaps you’re in a hurry and moving around in a haphazard and irregular manner.
All of these situations might cause your cat to lose his or her sense of normalcy, causing him or her to become fearful and defensive. What to do: If you are unable to remove the stressor from your cat’s environment, the Pet Health Network recommends a variety of distraction techniques.
- Create platforms such as cat trees and other platforms so that your cat may explore the environment from every aspect. Demonstrate to your cat interesting hiding locations
- Give your cat moving toys that look like little prey
- This will keep him entertained. Change their toys frequently to keep their interest piqued. Hide goodies for them to come upon
3. Confrontation with another cat
Last year, I was witness to a number of conflicts between two cats in my immediate neighborhood. One of the interactions was videotaped by me. It may be seen in the video below. In addition to the gray cat who lives next door to me, the black cat also resides in the neighborhood. As you can hear (crank up the volume! ), the black cat is tenacious and obstinate. Within two months or so, the black cat had made his way across to the gray cat’s area and was continually attempting to trespass on its territory.
- The gray cat hissed on several occasions when the black cat cornered him in the stairs behind them, even though you can’t hear him hissing in this video clip.
- That’s exactly how things turned out for these two.
- What to do: The sounds emanating from these two felines made me feel uncomfortable.
- My instincts kicked in without my even recognizing it, and I ended up doing the correct thing.
- As a side note, the clashes between these two have come to an end.
4. Pain
In my neighborhood last year, I observed a number of clashes involving two cats. One of the interactions was videotaped by myself. Watch the video below to find out more! The gray cat lives right next door to me, and the black cat resides in the area across the street from me. The black cat is persistent and demanding, as you can hear (up up the volume!). Within two months or so, the black cat had made his way across to the gray cat’s area and was continuously attempting to encroach on its turf.
- Although you cannot hear the gray cat hissing in this video, there were several occasions when the black cat cornered the gray cat in the stairs behind them, and the gray cat hissed in response.
- These two had a similar outcome.
- Exactly what to do: The sounds emanating from these two felines made me feel a little uncomfortable.
- My instincts took over and I did the proper thing without even recognizing it.
When two cats are in a fight, separating them is the best thing to do in order to avoid the problem from escalating. As a side note, the clashes between these two have come to a close. As a result, the black cat has ceased appearing, and the gray cat is enjoying a happy and tranquil existence.
- Sleeping more and playing less is the new normal. Alternatively, you might be restless, unable to get comfortable, and frequently getting up and down. a pattern of licking and biting a specific place on a regular basis Sudden lack of appetite, having accidents when they had never had them before, or having trouble or incapacity to stand are all symptoms of menopause. I’m walking with my back hunched and my feet shuffled like an ancient person in discomfort. A glazed expression on your cat’s face, or dilated pupils are signs of illness. If your cat is panting, which is not normal in cats, you should consult with your veterinarian immediately once. The alteration in one’s personality: a cat who was before nice turns suddenly hostile and grumpy. Because they are unable to groom themselves (it is too painful), their gorgeous coat has become a shambles.
Come in for an assessment and a discussion with your veterinarian about a treatment plan to relieve the discomfort your hissing cat is experiencing.
Further reading
- Come in for an assessment and a discussion with your veterinarian about a treatment plan to ease the discomfort your hissing cat is feeling.