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Hi Jessica
Thank you for reaching out, and I’m sorry to hear that your tortie is attacking your boyfriend.
It sounds like your cat’s nervous system is a bit out of sorts since you were away from home. She was likely stressed and hyper aroused while you were gone, and when the other cat got stuck in the bag and started running around, it may have startled her.
I experienced something similar: one of my skittish girls got spooked and ended up attacking my partner, too.
I believe your cat redirected her aggression towards your partner out of fear triggered by the situation.
I recommend giving your cat some space and time to calm down. Her stress hormones can stay elevated for several hours or even days after such an incident, so pushing for interaction too soon could make things worse.
Keep the environment calm; playing classical music in the background may help.
It’s also essential to avoid sudden movements or direct eye contact, as these behaviors can be perceived as a threat.
Lastly, avoid making noises with any types of bags for the immediate time until she is fully relaxed.
To rebuild trust between your cat and your partner, focus on positive reinforcement. Encourage positive experiences by feeding her daily, offering high-value treats or engaging in gentle, low-intensity play with her favorite toys when your partner is around.
If the aggression occurs frequently or if you’re struggling to manage it, I suggest consulting a vet to rule out any medical conditions.
I hope this helps!
Melina