How to deal with adopted cat’s unexpected aggression

Dear Cathy: I took in a 10-year-old indoor-outdoor cat who needed a home. I am a senior and she is my only pet, but I have had cats before. I was told she could not be picked up and held. She allows quick head and belly rubs and has become a lap and bed cat at her discretion.

The problem is, she attacks me, mostly on the arms, by leaping at me without warning. She has drawn blood several times. I know not to provoke her and pet her only when she is sitting quietly on my lap. I cannot see any obvious reason for her quick, unexpected mean behavior.

Can you advise on what to do? I’ve given her calming chews, but I don’t know if they are effective. — Karen, Bristol, Connecticut

Dear Karen: Feline aggression can be scary and yet is a fairly common problem. Cats are sensitive to their environments and might react aggressively if overstimulated (through petting) or afraid (through poor early socialization or stressful living conditions).

Redirected aggression, which happens when they see a stimulus — such as an outdoor cat or squirrel they can’t get to — also can result in a sudden attack. Most cats will settle down over time if their owners learn to watch for what bothers them.

First, rule out a health problem with your veterinarian. Cats who are in pain will sometimes attack.

Second, observe her behavior. Cats often show subtle signs they are about to attack. Their ears might flatten back, their eyes might dilate, and they might make themselves a bit smaller right before they pounce. If you see any of these subtle body changes, turn your back immediately to give her a moment to settle down.

Next, learn what your cat will tolerate. If she attacks your hands after five minutes of petting, only pet for three minutes. Always use a toy to play with her, never your hands. And, play with her for 10 minutes, three times a day to expend her energy.

Finally, add a feline pheromone plug-in to the house. Keep giving her the calming chews, and hopefully she will begin to settle down.