Redirected aggression towards me

T
Timarianig Icon representing the flag French
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Hello,

I was outside with my Siamese and my Birman when a dog came through my garden, although it wasn't being aggressive at all. I shooed it away. My Siamese was completely puffed up and even though the dog had gone, he lunged at a bag I was carrying with such violence that his claws caught my finger, making it bleed quite heavily. I had to slowly back away using a stick to keep him at a distance, with my little girl under my arm, as the Siamese kept following me, still all puffed up and acting threateningly. I thought he was going to lunge at my face. I was absolutely terrified!!! Is this behaviour normal?

Thanks for your help!

Translated from French
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    Chatzen Icon representing the flag French
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    Yes, this behaviour is unfortunately well known in some cats. It is most likely redirected aggression.

    Your Siamese was in a state of high arousal when he saw the dog. Since he couldn't get at him, all that tension was transferred to the first target within reach: you... or even the bag you were carrying. It isn’t spite, nor is it a sign that he hates you.

    In a situation like this, the best thing to do is avoid any direct contact for a few minutes, or even an hour if necessary. Talk to him calmly, give him a quiet place to retreat to, and don't try to pick him up while his hackles are still up or if he's staring intensely.

    The fact that he followed you while remaining threatening is quite daunting, but it can happen when a cat is still high on adrenaline. Once the stress has worn off, they usually go back to their normal self.

    If this kind of episode happens often, or if his aggression appears without any identifiable trigger, a trip to the vet is recommended to rule out pain or a medical issue.

    Hope your finger mends quickly, and don't feel guilty: you were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

    Chatzen

    Translated from French

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