Answer

Hello, Arjay

 

This is typical behavior for many cats. It even has a name, petting aggression. She is exhibiting a dominance aggression towards you.

 

I am not saying she thinks you're a cat, but she is showing alpha cat behaviors towards you. Your the human; she's the cat. She is trying to tell you she is the dominant species. Therefore you play when she wants, feed her when she wants, and leave her alone when she's not in the mood for you any longer.

 

Here is how you can help stop the nasty behavior, and train her to be the submissive species in house.

 

When she jumps up for attention, put her down immediately. If you have to stand up then stand up and move so she can't have access to your lap. Do this for a couple of weeks. Then when you allow her in your lap, don't let her decide when pet time is over. You cut her off first. Just pet her for a second put her down and then give her a kitty treat. The treat will teach her to associate the petting with the nice reward. Don't give her kitty treats any other time. This is going to retrain her thought process on who is the dominant one.

 

You gradually increase the petting time, but always be the one that decides when enough is enough, not her. Believe me this technique works as long as you are consistent.

 

There is also a product you can buy at pet smart called feliway. This is a pheromone that inducing calm happy feelings in cats. It is great for aggression, anxiety, urine sprayers, and furniture scratchers. You can also get it in a form called comfort zone.

 

Let me know if you need more help.

Micki