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It’s quite normal for cats to be protective and possessive of their owners, as they consider them to be a valuable resource. This possessiveness stems from the instinct to safeguard essential resources, such as food, shelter, and affection. Here are some key points to consider about cats’ possessive behavior:
- Important Resources: Cats view their owners as providers of crucial resources, including food, water, shelter, and affection. It’s natural for them to want to keep their owners close.
- Special Bond: Cats often form a particularly strong bond with one specific person. This can be the individual they spend the most quality time with or the one they bonded with during their early stages of life.
- Causes of Possessiveness:
- Other Cats: In a multi-cat household, competition for attention and resources can lead to possessive behavior.
- Guests and Visitors: The presence of new people, even if they’re cat lovers, can trigger possessive behavior in some cats.
- Non-Feline Newcomers: Introducing a new pet or a baby can disrupt a cat’s routine and cause possessiveness.
- Signs of Possessiveness:
- Withdrawn or uninterested behavior
- Aggression, such as hissing or growling
- Attention-seeking actions
- Destructive behavior, like scratching furniture or inappropriate toileting
- Helping a Possessive Cat:
- Good Socialization: Early positive experiences and socialization can help prevent possessive behavior.
- Gradual Introductions: Introduce new family members or pets slowly and in a controlled manner to minimize stress.
- Maintain Routines: Stick to regular feeding and playtime schedules to provide stability for your cat.
- Break Negative Cycles: Separate cats if they’re in conflict, and gradually reintroduce positive interactions.
- Encourage Alternative Behaviors: Teach your cat positive activities to focus on, such as the “touch” game.
Remember, possessiveness in cats is a response to emotional uncertainty and should never be punished. Seeking advice from an animal behaviorist can be helpful if you’re struggling to manage your cat’s possessive behavior.
