It might also be an act of passive aggression in hopes of avoiding a fight with the dominant cat. (wagbrag.com)
To exhibit silent, passive aggression cats may block or guard access to litter trays to prevent others using this limited and essential resource. (icatcare.org)
We may dump our anger on others through yelling or physical displays of aggression, or express our anger through passive aggression; neither leads to a healthy, successful life. (abrandtherapy.com)