My husband and I got a new kitten several months ago. We got him at around 8 weeks and he was a typical playful kitten and very affectionate. At around 3 1/2 or 4 months, we noticed a huge spike in aggression, mostly related to play, which we know can happen. We tried a lot of things to stop it, including walking away and ignoring him when he attacked, putting him in on time out, spraying him with water, telling him no firmly. None of this worked. We had him neutered early, a little after 5 months, hoping that it would curb the behavior, but it seems to have only gotten worse with time.
Now, at 7 months and nearly full grown, when I am just typing on the computer or folding laundry, he will get a mean look in his eyes, latch himself onto my arms, all claws and teeth bared, biting as hard as he can. It is very difficult to pull him off or deter him. My arms are gashed and scarring. I would love anyone who specializes in animal behavior to help me end this nightmare! By the way, it seems that I am his chosen victim -- he doesn't usually treat my husband this way.
I appreciate your input -- I know that my cat's behavior is very abnormal, which is why I'm asking for help. The easy and obvious thing to do would be to get rid of him, but I can't bear the thought of doing so knowing I could have done something more. That's why any input from a veterinarian or animal behavior specialist will be appreciated -- I want to give this the best shot I can.
And yes, he is an indoor cat and the only pet in the home.
By the way, Foon, your comment didn't upset me. It was completely rational and I appreciate it.
Aaka -- That was very helpful. "Social status aggression" in your link described exactly what my cat is doing. I am going to take your advice and see how it goes.
Now, at 7 months and nearly full grown, when I am just typing on the computer or folding laundry, he will get a mean look in his eyes, latch himself onto my arms, all claws and teeth bared, biting as hard as he can. It is very difficult to pull him off or deter him. My arms are gashed and scarring. I would love anyone who specializes in animal behavior to help me end this nightmare! By the way, it seems that I am his chosen victim -- he doesn't usually treat my husband this way.
I appreciate your input -- I know that my cat's behavior is very abnormal, which is why I'm asking for help. The easy and obvious thing to do would be to get rid of him, but I can't bear the thought of doing so knowing I could have done something more. That's why any input from a veterinarian or animal behavior specialist will be appreciated -- I want to give this the best shot I can.
And yes, he is an indoor cat and the only pet in the home.
By the way, Foon, your comment didn't upset me. It was completely rational and I appreciate it.
Aaka -- That was very helpful. "Social status aggression" in your link described exactly what my cat is doing. I am going to take your advice and see how it goes.