Cats may fight for a variety of reasons, especially if there is a new cat in the household that may not have been properly introduced. It is the pawrent's responsibility to ensure that they know the signs of a potential fight & break it up.
Here are 6 ways on how to prevent cat fights.
1. Sterilization:
One of the most effective ways to reduce aggression in cats is to spay or neuter them. This can help decrease territorial behavior, caterwauling & the urge to fight for mating.
2. Provide Separate Resources in Multi Cat Household
Cats can be territorial, especially when it comes to resources like food, water & litter boxes. Just because cats get along or grew up together, does not necessarily mean that they are willing to share resources. For a happy multi-cat household, ensure access to individual bowls, toys, scratch posts, resting spaces & litter boxes (ratio 1cat:2boxes) in different areas of the house so that cats don't feel the need to compete for these resources.
3. Individual Safe Spaces:
Cats need their own spaces where they can retreat to rest, be alone & feel safe. Provide multiple hiding spots, cozy beds, elevated cat posts or hammocks, can serve as a safe zone for a cat feeling stressed or threatened, or just want to get away from everyone else.
4. Daily playtime:
In the words of Jackson Galaxy, "play with your cats, play with your cats, play with your cats!" Engage your cats in regular interactive play & provide toys & environmental enrichment. Physical & mental stimulation can help alleviate stress & reduce the likelihood of boredom-related aggression. It is a way to exhaust your cat's energy so that he doesn't need to look for other ways to expel it, i.e. chasing after another cat.
5. Positive Reinforcement:
Reinforce positive behaviours with treats & praise - "Good job, Harbie".
Offer treat within the next few seconds to for the positive association. Rewarding cats for calm & friendly interactions can encourage them to associate positive experiences with each other - "Whenever I see this cat, I get a treat. Perhaps she's not so bad after all!"
6. Gradual Introductions:
If you're introducing a new cat to the household, do so gradually. Keep the new cat in a separate room initially, allowing them to become familiar with the scent of the resident cat(s). Cat introduction is a very delicate, step by step process that cannot be rushed. Do not introduce cats with a fixed timeline (e.g. they must get along within 2 weeks) or you will inadvertently be setting yourself & your cats up for failure for pushing their personal boundaries too fast.
Downloadable Infographic below & on our Instagram: @thecatwhisperersg
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