What is meant by the term "redirected aggression"?

Redirected aggression refers to a situation where an animal exhibits aggressive behavior towards an unintended target, often as a result of frustration or arousal from a different source. This phenomenon typically occurs when an animal experiences a stimulus that triggers its aggressive instincts, but the individual it is actually upset with is not within reach or accessible. As a result, the animal may redirect that aggression toward another animal, person, or object that is nearby, which can sometimes lead to unpredictable and sudden behavior.

Understanding redirected aggression is crucial for animal caretakers and trainers because it emphasizes the importance of recognizing triggers and managing the environment to prevent situations where an animal might feel the need to lash out. By addressing the underlying causes of the initial irritation or stress, one can often prevent the occurrence of redirected aggression altogether.