Expert: Jessica - 12/19/2009

Question
I adopted a cat though PetSmart (which has a partnership with a local animal shelter) about two months ago. He has really aggressive tendencies and hates strangers, although he can be mean to me as well. He's had a check-up and is in good heath, so I don't think it's a projection of him not feeling well. He hates being pet on his back, and especially his stomach. I don't know if he was abused or if he is part feral... He's quite smart, and tends to get riled up when he's exploring and trying to get into cupboards and rooms. He's also extremely willful and I try to respect his boundaries, but sometimes he'll just snap for no reason. I'm not going to give him up, but is there anything I can do?

Answer
Hi Nikole.  I'm so glad you won't give up on him!

There are many theories as to why some cats are so sensitive about having their bellies touched or being petted on the back.  Some suggest that any touching on the belly of a male cat triggers mating behavior, and males bite females during this process.  Others feel that cats are defensive about being touched on the belly because it's an extremely vulnerable area if someone were to try to injure them.  There are sensitive nerve bundles along the back, especially where the back meets the tail (the "tail head").  Cats who've ever had any kind of tail injury are extremely likely to have tail head sensitivity that causes them to lash out if the area is touched.  Others may have oversensitive nerve endings along the back.  Unfortunately, these problems are all difficult to address, so it's best to just avoid touching areas the cat tends to be cranky about.

You may want to try a couple of products to calm him down.  One I use and recommend is Feliway.  This helps take the edge off for some cats who behave aggressively due to insecurity.  I use the plug-in diffusers in my own home.  You can learn more at www.feliway.com.  It's available at pet stores and online.  The initial diffuser set up seems least expensive at amazon.com.

I also would suggest using some flower essences to try to relax him.  I like Spirit Essences (www.spiritessences.com).  A widely respected vet has formulated these, along with an animal behaviorist.  Your kitty might benefit from the Grouch Remedy.

Additionally, he might be a cat whose mean streak flares when he becomes bored.  I have a cat like this, and some toys that can keep her entertained when I can't devote my full attention are the Fling-Ama-String and FroliCat BOLT.  I recommend both for active cats.

For the safety of all, it's probably best to limit him to one room away from strangers when you have company.  Visitors are stressful to most cats, and while most cats choose the flight option and hide when strangers come over, some cats choose to fight.

Best of luck!

Jessica