How to Train Your Queen Cat to Avoid Aggression

Maternal aggression happens when a queen, or female cat, becomes particularly protective. This behavior defends her kittens and can target humans, other animals, or cats that come close to her newborns. Since male cats have been known to cannibalize kittens, the queen's protective instincts are justified. It's natural for her to keep her kittens safe, so this behavior makes sense. This aggression usually decreases as the kittens grow and become more independent.

Understanding Aggression

After the queen cat gives birth, maternal hormones in her body can influence her behavior, making her extremely protective and causing hair-trigger tempers. Cats instinctively react with what some call a "stranger danger" when encountering unfamiliar individuals or situations. A new cat entering a resident cat's territory may feel defensive, and introductions can ease this transition. Mother cats also protect their litter and surrounding area, treating any intruders as threats to their offspring.

Note Timing of the Aggressive Behavior

During the first three to four weeks post-birth, queens exhibit strong protective aggression since their kittens are most vulnerable and maternal hormones are heightened. Anything unfamiliar is perceived as a potential threat. Even if cats were previously acquainted, the queen would likely strive to keep others away. While aggression mainly targets other cats, it can also affect humans. Avoid handling the new litter during the first few days. As the kittens mature, aggression will lessen, but reducing stress for all cats can help in the meantime.

Provide the Queen With Her Own Supplies

If other cats live in your home, provide the queen with separate food, water, and a litter box. This setup enables her to stay close to her kittens and avoid stressful contact with other cats. Reducing sharing-related anxiety decreases the likelihood of aggression.

Protect the Kittens

Organize your home to protect the kittens by using a baby gate to create a safe area for the mother and her babies. While the mom cat may hop over a low gate, it reassures her that the kittens can't wander off. Other cats shouldn't be allowed in the kitten area. As the kittens grow, lead the mother out for playtime while someone else engages in playtime with the kittens.

Encourage Natural Behavior

As the kittens mature, the mother will display natural behaviors that support their growth. Some mothers move their kittens daily, while others do so only when frightened. This behavior hides them from predators. The mother will also meow to her kittens so they learn her voice and return to her. Allow these natural actions without interference, as interruption could provoke aggression due to perceived threats. If the mother cat meows loudly or appears stressed, check that no kitten is stuck away from her.

Problems and Proofing Behavior

Don't fret too much if the queen cat aggression seems quite strong when the kittens are born. Give the mother cat a few weeks to adjust to her new role and see how her aggression levels are once the kittens are about a month old. Once the kittens are weaned, you can spay your female cat to prevent additional litters (and the maternal aggression that comes with new kittens).