Cats Behaving Outrageously: When They See Other Cats Outside Their Windows
Whether it's Pumpkin, Marley, or Midnight, cats often exhibit very specific and sometimes unexpected behaviors when they see other cats outside their windows. This article explores the fascinating world of feline reactions and uncovers some insights into why these behaviors occur.
Understanding Cats and Their Behavior
Cats are highly territorial animals. When they witness a perceived threat from another cat outside their window, they may react intensely, displaying a wide range of behaviors. Some common reactions include agitation, displacement aggression, and an intense focus on the perceived intruder.
The Case of Pumpkin: Displaced Aggression
Pumpkin's Behavior: Pumpkin, a relative of Midnight and her mate, once became very agitated when a new feral cat entered her territory. This type of behavior is often referred to as displaced aggression. Rather than directly confronting the new cat, Pumpkin targeted her own kittens.
This behavior is not uncommon. A mother cat may not be able to attack the new cat directly but will instead channel her frustration and aggression towards her kittens. Interestingly, Pumpkin has since calmed down, indicating that she may have come to terms with the new arrival.
The Story of Midnight and Cupcake
Midnight and Cupcake's Behavior: Another example is Midnight, whose daughter, Cupcake, is highly interested in the cats in the yard. Recently, a new feral cat named Little Princess and her kittens began receiving food from the house.
When Cupcake noticed Little Princess, she would sprint to the kitchen, leap onto the window sill, and watch intently. In some cases, she would even alert the humans to the presence of the new cats before they could do the same. This behavior is typical of a cat that is both interested and slightly stressed by the presence of other cats.
Humanely Managing Feral Cats
The story of Little Princess and her kittens concludes with a happy one. The feral cats were humanely captured, spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and re-homed to a farm where they can live indoors but have outdoor access. Most importantly, they will be away from cars, dogs, and other potential dangers. The kittens, too, were captured, vaccinated, and placed in foster care. Once they were spayed or neutered, they were ready for adoption.
The mother and kittens' fate is especially important given the recent change in weather. The region is expecting a major storm. The poor kittens could have been in significant danger if they remained outside during such conditions.
Marley the Protector
Marley's Behavior: Another example is Marley, who gets very excited when he sees other cats outside his window. Marley acts as though he is ready to fight to protect his home from the perceived threat. He makes low throaty growls and paws at the window.
Marley also serves as a protector from the evil squirrels. From his perch in the cat tree, he can see any other cats or dogs in the area and is always on high alert. His territorial nature and protective instincts make him a valuable guardian for the household.
Conclusion
Cats, like Pumpkin, Midnight, and Marley, have specific and sometimes aggressive reactions when they see other cats outside their windows. Understanding and managing these behaviors requires patience, knowledge of feline behavior, and sometimes intervention from local animal shelters or humane societies. By providing a safe indoor-outdoor environment, we can help our feline friends feel secure and content.