Tips to Keep Your Cats from Fighting

During the Covid-19 pandemic, news personalities went viral because of their home setup. Some of them were caught in the middle of a catfight while delivering the news, and it was hilarious. However, as cat owners, you knew that it was not fun at all. In fact, it’s distressing.

The good news is there are things we can do to make our feline buddies live in harmony. The tips in this guide will help you keep them from fighting–short and long-term.

Check the Root Cause

Conflict is inevitable if you have two or more cats because, just like humans, they have different personalities. However, it’s best to check the reason if it’s already excessive or just happened suddenly. Knowing the cause of the aggression will give you an idea of what specific actions you’ll take.

If one of your cats suddenly turns aggressive and picks on other cats, it may be undergoing an uncomfortable situation. Whether it’s an injury or sickness, you should consult a veterinarian.

• Territorial Dispute: Just like their ancestors, cats are territorial animals. The introduction of a new cat can be perceived as a threat. Even in houses with two or more cats, a slight environmental age can trigger the instinct.
• Mental Triggers: Fear, stress, and anxiety can quickly turn a sweet cat into an aggressive one. A cat that is threatened will defend itself and attack. This behaviour is often seen in rescued cats.
• Sexual Aggression: Changes in hormones caused by the heat season can lead to aggression. Male cats are often aggressive to one another when a female cat in heat is nearby. During this season, female cats usually redirect their aggression towards male cats, especially when they have just mated.
• Rough Play: Litters of wild cats usually play fight to practice their hunting skills. This is also the same with domesticated cats. If it appears that your cats are fighting but more relaxed and not hissing each other, they are more likely playing.

Read: What to Consider When Adopting Rescued Cats?

Separate Your Cats Immediately

Act quickly if you see your cats fighting or growling at each other. This will immediately put a stop to the distressing situation and will give them the idea that you disapprove. However, do it carefully and avoid force because they might end up biting or scratching you.

Provide Enough Space

Cats are not pack animals, and they don’t enjoy the company of other cats. So, providing enough space for your cat is essential for them to enjoy peace. Adding vertical spaces like a cat tree or cat wall shelves can eliminate territorial disputes.

Check if your furniture has corners that might end up as dead spots. Such spaces cause fear and anxiety. Rearrange your furniture to provide escape routes and hiding spots so your cats can find a space to retreat.

Provide Separate Resources

When cats share food, beds, and toys, they usually fight. To eliminate competition, ensure that they have separate food bowls, beds, litter boxes, and water stations. The guideline is that you should provide one for each cat and an extra. 

Mental and Physical Stimulation

Mentally and physically stimulating your cats will help in reducing stress and anxiety, thus reducing aggressive behaviour. You can play with your cats or provide stimulating toys to distract them.

Snail Racer is a fun and stimulating toy that will keep your cats from fighting. This moves independently mimicking prey, thus triggering your cats’ hunting instincts. This also allows social interaction if you have 2 or more cats.

Playing with your cats will also serve as a moment that tightens the bond between you and your cats. This will also burn out calories that keep your cats relaxed and will opt to rest rather than fight.

Proper Introduction of New Cats

If your old cat is aggressive towards your new cat, it could be because of improper introduction. Reintroduce your new cat slowly, starting with a scent that you will soon elevate to a brief visual introduction and supervised time together.

Provide Individual Attention

A jealous cat is an aggressive cat. So, to avoid conflict, make sure that you provide equal attention. Ensure that you have a one-on-one interaction with your cats to assure them that you love them.

Final Thoughts

Providing a peaceful and harmonious environment is the key to preventing your cats from fighting. This will not happen overnight and will require lots of patience and a tremendous amount of work. You can do this by following the tips and guidelines we mentioned above.