Is Over-Stimulation Common in Cats?
Is the following any cause for alarm, or is our
Manx just being a cat? While she likes attention
(playing chase-the-ball, etc.), she has never been
particularly affectionate. She does have her
moments though, and she very much likes us to pet
her before she eats (dry cat food, always
available as she does not overeat ); she will
stand by the dish and meow until one of us comes
and pets her. Several times over the past week or
so she has summoned my partner, eaten quietly as
he petted her, and then suddenly backed off and
hissed at him (and perhaps try to scratch or bite)
–and hurt his feelings, no doubt.
I am guessing she is getting over-stimulated
somehow, because she REALLY likes it when he pets
her (like she’s enjoying a massage). She likes it
okay when I pet her under the same circumstances,
but not as much, and when she tires of me she
just steps out of petting range rather than hiss
at me.
Should we be concerned? She seems perfectly
healthy otherwise, and has no other change in
habit. Is she just getting cranky as she grows
older? Thanks for any insight you can give us.
Ann
San Francisco
I sincerely doubt that there is any cause for concern.
Cats live by their rules, and they reserve the right to change those rules as time passes. I have known many cats who really enjoy being petted . . . up to a point. And then it is as if a switch flips inside of them. Suddenly, they do not want any more attention. At that moment, your best bet is to back off.
Some cats give body language signals that they are growing weary of attention. The most common signal is tail swishing (since you have a Manx, it’s not likely that you’ll see that one). As well, the cat’s ears may be held against her head, or her posture may change subtly. If you or your partner notice any of these signs when you are petting your cat, stop giving her attention.
However, these signs are not universal. You may have to learn her new tolerance levels through experience, in which you measure the amount of time that you have before she stops wanting attention.
I have two final points. First, it is not at all uncommon for cats, dogs or people to become crankier as they age. Second, make sure you’re using good flea control. San Francisco is flea country. Some cats respond to occasional flea bites by developing extremely sensitive skin, especially on the back. If the skin is more sensitive than normal, your cat may be more likely to lash out.
You have questions. 