Cats know how to surprise their owners not only with cute purring and funny antics.
Sometimes they demonstrate quite human feelings, among which jealousy occupies a special place.
But how can you tell if your furry friend is jealous, and what can you do about it?
Meowing protest
A sudden increase in vocal activity in a cat may signal jealousy.
The pet, feeling a threat to its position, begins to meow loudly, demanding attention.
This is especially evident when the owner is talking on the phone or interacting with guests. The cat seems to be saying, "Hey, I'm here too! Pay attention to me!"
Obsessive behavior
A jealous cat becomes a real clingy cat. It follows its owner around, jumps on his lap at the most inopportune moment, and rubs against his legs.
This behavior is often observed when a new family member or pet appears in the house. The cat seeks to remind of its existence and restore the status quo.
Territory Markers
An increase in territorial behavior is considered a clear sign of cat jealousy. The pet may begin to actively mark the territory, even if it has not done so before.
The appearance of scratches on furniture, increased rubbing of the muzzle against objects - all these actions are aimed at declaring their rights to the territory and the owner.
Aggressive lunges
In extreme cases, a cat's jealousy is expressed in aggression. Hissing, growling, attempts to scratch or bite the "rival" - be it a person or another animal - are serious signals.
This behavior requires immediate attention and correction to avoid escalation of the conflict.
Demonstrative ignoring
Paradoxically, sometimes cats express jealousy by demonstratively ignoring their owner.
The pet may turn away, go to another room, refuse affection. This behavior resembles the resentment of a small child and requires a special approach to restore trust.
How to deal with cat jealousy
Patience and attention are the key to solving the problem. It is important not to ignore the manifestations of jealousy, but also not to indulge them excessively. Establishing a clear daily routine, allocating time for play and affection will help the cat feel safe.
When a new family member or pet appears, it is necessary to gradually introduce the cat to the changes. Positive reinforcement, treats and praise for good behavior will help to form the right associations.
In case of strong manifestations of jealousy or aggression, it is recommended to contact a veterinarian or felinologist. The specialist will help develop an individual plan for correcting the pet's behavior.
