Why is my cat HISSING at me?

It can be disheartening to receive a sudden hiss or a painful nip during what you thought was a pleasant grooming session with your cat.

Most cats are naturally friendly, hissing only when something is wrong or they want to be left alone.

Your newly adopted cat doesn’t necessarily hate you if they hiss.

Here are a few possible reasons for your cat’s hissing, so you can determine if they need space or a veterinarian visit.

1. Unfarmiliar things, people, or environment

Introducing a new cat to your home is really exciting! But it can be a bit disheartening if your furry friend hisses at you whenever you approach.

Don’t worry, it doesn’t mean your cat will never trust you. They’re just feeling a bit wary of their new surroundings.

Give your new cat some time to get used to you and your home.

Encourage them gently to spend time with you without making them feel pressured or threatened.

The best thing you can do is give them space and wait for them to come to you at their own pace.

The smell of unfamiliar animals or even strong perfumes that interfere with your natural scent might make your cat a bit cautious about you.

2. ‘Boundaries Please!’ Hiss

Just like us, cats can get a bit stressed out when new people or pets enter their homes.

They can become territorial and see them as intruders.

Even a new kitten, puppy, or guest can be seen as an invader in your cat’s personal space.

When your cat gets grouchy about their territory, their hissing may not be directed at you personally. It’s often just misdirected frustration.

3. Being startled

Cats sometimes hiss when startled, even though they’re usually hard to sneak up on.

Distractions, unfamiliarity, nervousness, or shyness can make them more likely to get surprised when you touch them.

To avoid startling them, ensure your cat knows you’re there before petting them.

Give them ample warning, especially during their adjustment period.

4. Protectiveness (Mama Bear)

Mothers of all kinds are very protective of their babies, and domestic cats are no exception.

Some mother cats are okay with sharing kitten care with you, but others are more protective.

If a mother cat hisses at you when you approach her kittens, it doesn’t mean she hates you.

It’s just her instinct to keep her babies safe and protected.

When needed, give the mother cat some time alone with her litter for a few weeks before trying to interact with the kittens.

5. The Overstimulation Hiss

Cats have different preferences for attention—some enjoy sitting on your lap and getting scratched all day.

Other cats prefer a very limited amount of attention.

The duration of your cat’s enjoyment of attention depends on their individuality.

When your cat reaches their limit and wants to be left alone, they may hiss or swat at you.

It can be surprising when a cat suddenly decides they no longer want to be touched, especially after enjoying it earlier.

But cats usually give warning signs before reacting aggressively. Here are a few signs to watch out for:

• Tail twitching vigorously

• Flattened ears

• Restlessness or tense body posture

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This article was compiled with the help of Artificial Intelligence