Why do cats hiss?
The hiss-tory behind your cat's behaviour
We all know that cats tend to have a bit of an angsty disposition, preferring to scratch the antique sofa or tipping over your vase instead of playing with the toys you bought. But let’s face it: it’s all part of their roguish charm. So, what does it mean when the loveable mischief turns into prickly and aggressive behaviour?
A hiss from a cat can often sound like a high pitch release of air, much like a snake, and is often unfriendly and defensive sound. Basically, it’s cat-ese for back off. This sound is often accompanied by other tell-tale body language, such as flattened ears, bared teeth, and fur standing on end. There are many reasons as to why cats hiss and scratch (and luckily also lots you can do to help) so read on for the detailed hiss-tory, and our top tips for blissing out your furry friend.
Protection
If you are interacting with a stray cat, or a cat you know to have kittens nearby, there may be a chance they are protecting their young. Mother cats can be extremely protective of their litter and will hiss as their first defence mechanism to anyone they may think could endanger their kittens. That’s pretty understandable, I’m sure if you thought anyone was going to hurt your fur baby, you’d be hissing and scratching too.
If you know or have found a stray cat to have kittens, don’t interfere unless they’re in immediate danger, and contact the RSPCA, your local vet, or local animal charities to help. Unfortunately, it is a common problem for people to abandon pregnant cats, and stray kittens can be vulnerable to many dangers and diseases.
Warning
Hissing can sound pretty scary and can often make you feel afraid or guilty for upsetting the cat. However, a hiss is often the first line of defense for a cat, and their way of telling you they need space. Felines can be fickle fellas, and may just be overstimulated, anxious, or plain fed up. If you’re playing and your cat suddenly hisses, that’s your kitty setting their boundaries (and telling you to bug someone else for a while).
Unfamiliarity
Even the most oblivious of cats have pretty good survival instincts; although some floofy brained kitties make this hard to remember. As such, cats are hardwired to be cautious and alert around unfamiliar locations, people, smells, objects, and more. Letting out a strong hiss can be a protective measure against the unknown to give it a good warning scare about going up against your ferocious feline.
Animal Communication
Hissing is a pretty universal language, and even the toughest of animals can interpret this as a warning sign. Cats will often hiss against other animals just like they would to you, just so they know to give them space and not mess with the best. This can be to animals they think could pose a threat, such as dogs, or to other cats to tell them they’re not impressed.
Health
A common reason behind the hiss can also be that the cat is injured, or in some form of pain. This is can either be because they have been touched or impacted in a painful area, or because they are acting more defensive due to being in a weaker position. If you believe this to be the case, check for signs of injury or poor health as best as possible, and contact your local vets or clinics to help if you’re not sure.
How Can I Help?
The first step when a cat hisses is to assess the situation. Sometimes the reason behind the hiss can be clear, such as if you are an unfamiliar person, or if you’ve accidentally trod on an unseen tail (we’ve all done it). If so, it’s best to give the cat space and respect their boundaries at their own pace. If they seem to be in pain, or you’re not sure why they’ve hissed, do check for any signs of injury and seek veterinary help as soon as you can. Kitty health is the top priority, and cats can often be quite good at hiding pain, so a hiss is a clear-cut sign. If your cat is hissing at another animal, they’ll usually take the hints themselves, but perhaps separate the animals and give them individual safe spaces to avoid the claws coming out.
Overall, make sure the cat is not in any danger or injury, and give them the space they need. After all, it’s important to respect boundaries, so give those paw-some pals what they deserve.
Creating a Safe Environment For Your Kitty
If you’d like to make your home a hiss-free space, there may be more you can do to keep your cat cool as a cucumber. Make sure you have safe areas in your home for your cat, whether that’s a comfy bed, their favourite cardboard box, or a quiet room away from others. Having space they can retreat to when overwhelmed can help them stay calm and get away from it all. If you have multiple animals, it can also be key for them to have separate safe spaces, for when they need some me time. Imagine if you had to share a room with your sibling forever…
Understanding your specific pets body language and communication is also important to know your cats’ boundaries and limits, so you back off before tensions run too high. If your cat does hiss, don’t take it personally, just give them space immediately so they know you understand. Stay cool, and respect each other, and it should make for one happy feline family.
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