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Hi! I need some behavior assistance with my 4 year old cat. I adopted him from a shelter a handful of months ago, and overall hes very well behaved and we have had no accidents. He gets very irritable when I first walk in the door or move too quickly, he will hiss and stand his ground but never swat or actually come at me. Once I pet him he becomes very social and loving, but if i get up, walk away and come back again, he gets scared and irritable. Why is he acting like this?

Hi! I need some behavior assistance with my 4 year old cat. I adopted him from a shelter a handful of months ago, and overall hes very well behaved and we have had no accidents. He gets very irritable when I first walk in the door or move too quickly, he will hiss and stand his ground but never swat or actually come at me. Once I pet him he becomes very social and loving, but if i get up, walk away and come back again, he gets scared and irritable. Why is he acting like this?

Updated On December 30th, 2019

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

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If only Taro could talk! With an unknown background, it's hard to know but it could be related to abuse, rough play or not socializing properly. Give him time to adjust. Keep his environmental calm and happy. Make sure to keep your movements calm and slow until he bonds and becomes comfortable. A few other therapies could also help. Here is a great article about cat's instinctual needs: https://www.petcoach.co/article/why-every-cat-needs-a-place-to-climb/ Use a Feliway diffuser, set aside 30 minutes a day for vigorous play and/or switch the food to Royal Canin Calm. Most cats response best to combination therapy. The veterinarian can also prescribe medications which can help with anxiety. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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