Is your feline buddy a bit temperamental? If so, you’re not alone. Kitties may be small, but they seem to have missed that memo: some of them seem to think of themselves as full-sized lions or tigers. Fluffy also has a tendency to be a bit, well, temperamental. She may be cuddly one minute, and hissing at you the next. What’s that all about? A local Champaign, IL veterinarian delves into some ‘pawsibilities’ below.
Playfulness
Cats are hunters by nature, so they really can’t help pouncing on things. Fluffy does sometimes like to practice her ‘lioning’ skills on her humans. This is usually half-hearted and accompanied by signs of kitty mischief, such as the zoomies.
Affection
Some kitties actually show their love by getting, well, a little violent. Fluffy sometimes bites or scratches affectionately, and she isn’t above pouncing on your toes. Cats usually don’t bite or scratch very hard when they’re giving love bites.
Illness/Injury
Being sick or in pain isn’t much of a mood booster, either for us or our feline pals. If Fluffy is usually sweet, but has recently turned into a furry little curmudgeon, contact your vet.
Jealousy
Not all cats have green eyes, but they are generally prone to envy. If you’re paying attention to another pet, Fluffy could be stewing with feline rage.
Unhappiness
Many things could fall under this umbrella, including stress, anxiety, loneliness, boredom, and fear. Kitties can also get upset by major changes. These include things like moving and/or changing owners, as well as shifts in their household makeup, such as the loss or arrival of a new roommate, be it human or another pet.
Misplaced Anger
Kitties sometimes take their frustrations out on their human friends. Fluffy may become enraged at the sight of another cat crossing her yard, and may lash out at you instead. Keep an eye out for potential triggers.
Purrsonality
Last but not least, some cats are just grumpy by nature. If your furball ignores you until you pet her, and then hisses, you may just have adopted a curmudgeon. Fluffy may also be perfectly happy hanging out with you, but might react if you try to pet her.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns about your kitty’s health or care. As your local Champaign, IL veterinary clinic, we’re here for you!
