Can a cat get Territorial over it's master?

Answer 1

YES. This is called "Status Aggression", and is usually seen in younger cats (1-3 years) who live in one cat households. These kitties might try to block doorways and hiss / growl at those who try to pass by them. They might also get peeved when they're moved off beds, chairs, etc. so the human can sit down. They might also swat at you if you try to pass by them.

Another closely related cat behavior is "Play Aggression". Cats with play aggression will NOT hiss and growl, but still might swat a human who walks by (no claws), or "ambush" a human from beneath a table / around a corner. They might also run after their human and bat / swat at the ankles or legs (again, no claws, but they might nip). They might also display "play face", an odd expression where the mouth is half open. To the human, this might look like aggression, but to the cat, it's play. Like status aggressive cats, play aggressive cats are usually younger cats in single-cat households.

How do I know? Because I have both in one cat! My kitty showed quite a bit of status aggression when she was younger: blocking doorways and the such. You basically have to show them that you are the "Alpha" and they are under you. Cats respond tremendously to positive reinforcement and training (and yes, they can be trained). Try calling your cat to the other room with a treat when you need to pass by them; only use that treat for that purpose. You can even clicker train your cat to come and get a treat. Reward consistently and often. Bring your cat a treat when kitty is sleeping on the bed and doesn't want you to sit there. Again, be consistent and reward positive behavior. Never EVER hit or yell at your cat. Cats will grow fearful, and with fear, aggression will increase. Also get your cat a cat tree or something this is theirs and theirs only. Train them to go to their tree with treats. And sometimes you might just have to leave your kitty to "cool down". I've learned to recognize that when my kitty is in a mood--large eyes, tail swishing, ears turning back--that she just wants to be left alone. So I leave her alone and she cools down.

For "play aggression", I found that ignoring my kitty worked best. If she would playfully swat at my legs, I would keep walking. I was the one who initiated our play sessions. Gradually she outgrew it.

Increase your cat's play / bonding sessions. Brush or hold your cat, and talk to him/her softly. Do this daily. Gradually your cat should lose both forms of aggression.

Living with a status aggressive cat can be challenging, but learning how to recognize and positively change their behavior can greatly improve their well-being and your relationship.