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Cats/Cat Hissing

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Expert: - 12/10/2007


Question

Nappin.
Hi Karen,
My cat is a one-year-old mixed-breed orange Manx. To most people
(myself, my roommates, friends who visit often) she is incredibly sweet and
affectionate.  She chirps, purrs, rubs our legs, and especially likes to lay/sleep
on her back. However, when new friends come to visit (especially men) she
hisses.  She has never, ever swatted, scratched or nipped at anyone, but the
hissing is usually enough to send a clear message.  More interestingly, while
she hisses, she creeps closer to the person with her ears forward.  To be
completely honest she really looks like she's more curious than threatened.  
My mother told me once, that big cats in the wild oftentimes open their
mouths and hiss in order to smell.  Can you offer any insight as to whether or
not that behavior ever transfers to domestic cats? I wish that I had some hard
science to back up Her Jekyll and Hyde syndrome.

Answer
Hi Courtney,

Your Manx, (and a real cutie), is showing big cat behavior. Cats, big and small, are very territorial. New people are new threats to her and her family. This is why she acts like she does. She is letting the stranger know they are in her area and she is coming closer to check them out. The ears back are her letting the stranger know she will attack if they make a wrong move.

There is a lot of info on the web about cat aggression and the different types there are. Just have whoever it is not make any sudden moves towards your cat. If she sees you are ok with the stranger then she will be. If she isn't ok with the person I would take another look at them . Cats are pretty good judges of character. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

Karen Craft

Expertise

I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!

Experience

I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care. Some thoughts to carry with you. A Cat's 10 Commandments My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it. Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you. If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so. Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.

Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.

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