If you have a household that contains more than one cat, you probably know that from time to time catfights break out. Even if your cats usually get along, at certain times, they will still fight. While you may not understand why they are fighting, cats have their reasons. Some of these reasons are similar to the reasons that humans have disputes. Cats express their discontent with other cats by picking fights. If you know the reasons why cats fight, it may help you stop your cats from fighting in the future.
Fighting for territory.
Many cats fight because they feel that another cat has invaded their territory, even if it is a cat that has lived with them for a long time. Cats are much more territorial than dogs and the gender of the cat has very little to do with it. Contrary to popular belief, female cats are sometimes just as territorial as their male counterparts. If you have two cats in your home, you might notice that one cat hisses and swats at the other whenever he feels his territory has been invaded. This can also happen if you bring a new cat into the home. The reason for the fight - they are simply defending their territory.
Social ranking.
Male cats frequently threaten and fight with each other for social ranking. Despite what you may think, even neutered males may do this. If you have multiple cats, especially more than one male cat, one cat is usually considered the “alpha male” and will be at the top of the cat hierarchy. Two cats might posture their bodies, then begin howling and screaming at one another. If one of the cats walks away or backs down, then the catfight is usually avoided. However, if neither one wants to back down, then one cat will attack the other by jumping forward and attempting to bite the neck of the other cat. Usually the other cat will fall on his back and try to bite, or scratch the attacker with his hind legs. The two cats might go through this several times before walking away. There are usually no serious injuries sustained in these kinds of fights. You may even notice that kittens or young cats play with one another this way. Most of the time you will not need to interfere. The reason for the fight - setting up or maintaining social ranking.
Aggression.
Cats also fight because of some kind of redirected aggression. This is quite common, especially with indoor cats. Your cat might be looking out the window at another cat or dog crossing “his” yard. Your cat begins to feel territorial and aggressive, but since this other cat cannot be reached, he may instead attack another family cat. The reason for the fight - pent up aggression
Jealousy.
Like all animals, cats can become jealous. It may be jealousy caused by one cat feeling that another is getting more attention than it is. Or is could be that one cat feels that another is getting more treats or better food than it is getting. These type of fights are frequently accompanied by a lot of loud growling and yowling. The reason for the fight - jealousy.
Your Reactions.
If you find your cats fighting occasionally, do not become alarmed, as this is common and quite typical of cats. Most of the time, you will be able to tell whether or not your cats are fighting for “blood” or just playing around. The time to stop a fight is when it gets nasty and it appears that one of the cats is getting hurt. Otherwise, allow your cats to work it out themselves. If you feel the need to stop a catfight, then you should do it carefully. Even the most loving cat can bite or scratch you in aggressive passion. To stop a fight, you should make some kind of loud noise, such as a handclap. Since cats are startled by loud noises, they should both stop to see what is making the noise. You can also spray water on them from a plant mister. This will usually stop the aggressive behaviour.
When you find your cats fighting, you should not punish them. Cats do not understand punishment and fighting is a natural instinct in cats. The best thing to do is only interfere when necessary. If you find your cats are fighting more than they should, it is time that you find out why. Do they fight over a litter box, a food bowl or a prime window location? Make sure each kitty has his or her own “things” and a place to retreat to when they feel overwhelmed by other pets in the house. This will go a long way in preventing real catfights.
Until next time,
Teia
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