Why Are Orange Cats Aggressive – Can They Calm Down?

Orange cat owners love their feline companions, but there’s no denying that orange cats have a bit of a reputation in the cat world. They’re also a bit contradictory, with some orange cats being known as adorable little goofballs, while others are more known for their temper and more aggressive behavior. So why is it that orange cats are so well known for their behavior, why are orange cats aggressive?

One of the biggest reasons orange cats tend to be more aggressive than other cats is that they also tend to be bigger because of how the genetics for size and color are distributed in the population. Bigger cats tend to be more aggressive than small cats. 

While orange cats seem more aggressive than other cats, There are some genetic reasons for their behavior that are related to color but not caused by it. Figuring out the link between orange color and cat behavior is pretty complicated. Don’t worry, though; we’ll cover a lot of the details later on in this article. So, if you want to know more about your orange cat and what to expect, keep reading. 

Are Orange Cats More Aggressive

Orange cats can be a little more aggressive than other cats, but that doesn’t mean that all orange cats are more aggressive. For one thing, increased aggression seems to be most common in male orange cats. Of course, we also don’t know as much about female orange cats. 

Female orange cats are rarer because of how the trait is expressed (it’s on the X chromosome, so most female cats with orange coloring are multi-colored). 

One of the other common traits with the gene that makes cats orange is that it tends to make them a little bigger than average for their breed. Because cats are only semi-social (they can live successfully alone or in groups as adults), they don’t always get along, and bigger cats tend to be more aggressive and more dominant in a group. 

Orange cats also have a few other unique behaviors that make it seem like size might not be the only part of this equation. For one thing, orange cats also have a reputation for being more curious and more clumsy than other colors of cats. 

Unfortunately, studying behavior in cats is complicated, so we don’t fully understand why orange cats are more aggressive than other colors. 

Why Is My Orange Tabby So Aggressive

One thing it’s essential to remember is that a cat’s behavior is complicated, and there’s almost always more than one factor at play. An orange cat might be more prone to aggression than other colors, but there’s still usually a reason your cat is acting aggressively. 

Cats usually use aggression when they’re angry, afraid, or feeling insecure and unsafe. If you can figure out why your cat might be feeling those emotions, you might be able to learn why they’re acting aggressively. 

The complication is that figuring out the reasons might not be as easy with an orange cat because they might use aggression faster than another cat in the same situation or experiencing the same emotions. 

Consider giving your cat their own space where they can retreat to be more comfortable and get away from the stimulation of your house while you look for the source of the problem. 

If aggressive behavior is starting to be a problem, consider talking with your vet or an animal trainer to see if they have suggestions to help your cat feel safer and improve its aggression. 

Why Do Orange Cats Bite

Orange cats usually bite because they are angry or as their very last route of self-defense. A cat that’s biting its owner is usually very upset about something, even if you aren’t entirely sure what that something is. 

For instance, your cat might bite because you startled them, or because you accidentally touched something that hurt without realizing it, or because your cat was already upset and wants to be left alone. 

However, orange cats also tend to be mouthy and chew on things. If your cat isn’t upset and is just gently biting you or gnawing on your skin, you should gently correct them until they stop the behavior. 

What Color Cat Is The Friendliest

Interestingly, orange cats are also considered the friendliest color! That’s because aggression and friendliness are two distinct traits, and orange cats can be overflowing with friendliness and still show aggressive tendencies.

Orange cats are cuddly, playful, and curious with their owners. They’re also usually friendly with strangers and can be some of the sweetest cats you’ll ever meet. 

That means that usually, even the most aggressive orange cats can be taught good behavior with consistent correction, and when they’re given a safe environment and places, they can go when they’re upset and need some time.  

Are Orange Cats Smarter

Orange cats aren’t necessarily any smarter on average than any other kind of cat, but individual orange cats can be more intelligent than average. 

So, if you think your cat seems smarter than average, you’re probably right! They’re lucky enough to be highly intelligent, but their color is not related. 

That said, orange cats tend to have some behaviors that can signify intelligence in cats—their curiosity, for instance. Curious cats tend to be more intelligent than less curious ones, even though they’re more likely to get into trouble. 

But it’s also important not to overthink your cat’s intelligence. While intelligence can be an essential part of their personality, it can be frustrating and difficult to rank them or figure out how smart your cat is. 

Instead, focus on the bond the two of your share and how much you enjoy their different behaviors and quirks. 

Things To Consider

Like all cats, orange cats’ behavior can be influenced by genetic factors related to their coat color, but that’s not the only factor. 

A cat’s coat color can only tell you a tiny bit about them. Other things, like whether they were raised in a safe and healthy environment, whether they were rescued from a shelter or an abusive home, and how well they relate with other animals and people, are all more important than coat color. 

So, while orange cats might have some behavior patterns their owner should be aware of, that doesn’t mean that those cats are destined to have those behaviors or that they will be any harder to own or care for than an average cat. 

If you’re not sure whether an orange cat’s personality is right for you, consider asking if any of your friends have orange cats you could meet and spend time with. Visiting a shelter and meeting orange cats can also be a good way to get some experience. 

There might be a little more factual basis for rumors that orange cats are aggressive as compared to the idea that black cats are unlucky, but that doesn’t mean they don’t make wonderful pets! Just make sure you’re ready to address any challenges your cat faces and any challenges they give you as an owner.