The sight of a growling cat can be frightening for pet parents, especially if it’s accompanied by other aggressive behaviors. This is because a feline’s growl signals a heightened sense of fear, which could lead to a full-blown attack.
Fortunately, most of the time, a growl is nothing more than a warning that your cat feels threatened and wants you to back off. However, the context of the growl is crucial to understanding its meaning and determining whether your cat growling needs help or not.
Cats typically growl when they feel their territory is being encroached upon or that someone else is invading their personal space. This includes their bed, hiding spots, and other items that are important to them. Growling is often paired with other behavior and body language cues, like hissing, to make the threat even clearer to anyone who can hear it. It’s also common for mothers to protectively growl at strangers to their kittens as a way to keep them safe.
Aside from territorial behavior, cats can also growl when they are irritated or frustrated. This can include excessive noise, lights, or interaction with family members when they want to relax. Cats can also become defensive when they are in pain and need to communicate that to others. A tense posture with arched back, teeth bared, and tail flicking is usually indicative of a defensive growl.
If you have a pet who frequently growls or displays signs of aggression, it’s best to consult your veterinarian for help. They may be able to identify any medical issues that are causing it or offer suggestions on how to change your pet’s behavior to make them more comfortable.
As a general rule, any time your cat is growling, it isn’t a good idea to approach them. Their body is flooded with adrenaline, which triggers their ancient “fight or flight” response. This means they are likely in a very vulnerable state and you should give them plenty of space to recover.
Cats who are displaying aggressive behaviors should always be evaluated by a veterinarian to ensure that they are healthy and do not need treatment for pain or anxiety. It is possible for even young, healthy pets to become injured or sick in the blink of an eye.
If you notice a sudden change in your pet’s behavior or growling, it’s best to schedule a vet appointment immediately. A vet will be able to determine what is going on with your pet and give you the tools you need to get them back to their happy, healthy self. Oftentimes, just by identifying what is bothering them, such as too much noise or too many people in the room, you can help them overcome their fears and stop the growling. If they are in pain, your vet can prescribe medication to ease their discomfort and help them feel better. They might also recommend some behavioral therapy to help address their underlying issues.