A cat that attacks the legs does it for a specific reason, if your cat attacks your legs, it does not do it randomly. In this article, I explain why and above all how to react so that the problem stops.
My cat is attacking my legs: The causes and their solutions
If your cat attacks your legs, it is for one of the following causes, for each one, I explain to you how to recognize it and especially how to make sure that it stops attacking your legs.
Hypersensitivity-hyperactivity syndrome
Some are walking disasters and attack anything that moves and if yours is constantly working out without ever stopping, it is vital to consult a veterinarian or a behaviorist.
Indeed, it is something deeply rooted in your cat’s personality that he will not be able to solve and without the help of a professional, you will not be able to solve the problem at the root.
Separation anxiety
If your cat throws herself like a possessed when you leave, it means that she doesn’t want you to leave. It mostly happens when he’s young and not used to being alone. It’s a matter of habit, but to get him used to it as well as possible, you can set up the following things:
First, you can make the separation go as smoothly as possible by saying goodbye to him and welcoming him back when you play, he’ll know you’ll be back soon and stop attacking your legs.
Then keep him occupied during the day with interactive games or a cat tree. You can also install a pet door if he has access to the outside when you are at home.
He is bored
If your cat is bored, it’s vital to keep him occupied with you, but also with games and toys that will keep him active when you’re busy doing something else during the day.
Here too, acting on his energy expenditure so that it is sufficient during the day will allow him to no longer have to eat or scratch your legs to let off steam when you return home.
He’s sick
A sick cat can let you know he’s ill by attacking your legs or feet , it’s a way of letting you know you need to take care of him. So if your cat is limp or has strange behaviors (lethargy, biting, refusal to eat…), consult the veterinarian if nothing passes quickly.
If it is a cat over 10 years old, do not wait to see the veterinarian because these symptoms are not necessarily visible, but he may be suffering from something serious.
He stresses
If your cat is anxious, he will be very aggressive and often on the defensive, so he may attack your legs if you are near him and he does not like it, when he eats or sleeps for example. If your cat seems nervous, find the cause of the stress and either remove it or get used to it.
For example, his corner should be quiet and should not be in the bustle or filth in any way, or even in a cold or closed place.
He wants to play
Cats love to play, especially when they are young, and they often like the legs because they move and are a bit high. If yours attacks your legs without showing aggression, it is just playing.
Don’t yell at him or he’ll actually attack you , but ignore him or say NO firmly to make him understand without scaring him.
My cat is attacking my legs: The final word
If your cat attacks your legs, find the cause and once identified, it will be vital to do what is necessary so that he can live again without attacking your legs.