Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats
- Rachel
- Jun 11, 2024
- 13 min read
Updated: 17 hours ago
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Managing feline aggression can be a complex process, especially where cat-to-cat aggression is present as it involves not one, but two (sometimes more) separate parties. In order to stop cats from fighting or attacking other cats, we have to find out why they're attacking in the first place.
Understanding the type of aggression being displayed and possible causes goes a long way in developing a strategy for dealing with inter-cat aggression.
How to Stop Cats Fighting:
Also in this article:
1. Vets
As with any abnormal behaviour, the first step should be getting your cats checked over by a registered vet. Treatment for any underlying conditions or diseases should be started as soon as possible, and you can talk to your vet about medications for anxiety. This may help to calm your cat in conjunction with behavioural and environmental modifications.
Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress
If aggression is hormonal, such as females in heat or unneutered males, then it's especially important to discuss the option of having cats desexed.
2. Stress
If health is generally good then we have to start looking for an external stressor, as cats are more likely to be aggressive under challenging circumstances. Once that stressor is removed, you can work on rebuilding the relationship between your fur babies.
While it's not always possible to stop aggression towards other cats, animals or people, controlling it in a safe and appropriate manner can be achieved by paying special attention to a cat's environment - in other words, their territory.
YuMOVE Calming Care contains natural ingredients to help reduce stress, anxiety and support calm behaviour. Easy opening capsules so powder can be sprinkled over food.
To avoid fuelling the fire, never punish or yell at your cats. Fighting is scary enough without adding a fear of humans, and remember what we said about redirected aggression: that fear will most likely be projected onto the other cat, creating more negative associations.
Cats are habitual creatures that learn through reward and repetition, not discipline. Keeping them calm and stress-free (as much as possible) is half of the battle.
Related post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment
3. Territory
When cats start fighting, regardless of the cause, just helping them to stay out of each other’s way can reduce the risk of explosive encounters. Territorial battles can happen for any number of reasons, from cats reaching sexual maturity to changes in the home or redirected aggression. Something as simple as moving furniture around or a new pet are potential triggers for territorial disputes.
Cats will often take their frustration out on the nearest thing, especially other housemates as they're a natural target. This may also be the case for anxiety or fear-based reactions, such as one kitty getting spooked by a loud noise or seeing a stray cat outside. To prevent it from turning into a longer-term issue, it’s crucial that cats aren’t competing for important resources.
4. Food and Water
Offer multiple food and water stations around the home, or if cats have specified mealtimes then try feeding them on opposite sides of a room. Bowls should be positioned so that neither cat has to turn its back on a potential assailant. Also notice if one cat blocks access to food bowls and, if necessary, feed separately to prevent territorial behaviour from escalating.
Adding more food stations gives cats the opportunity to go elsewhere, eliminating competition. They should always have free access to water, and you can make drinking more exciting with pet fountains in various designs. Fountains are also a great distraction!
NPET Cat Water Fountain has three flow settings with an adjustable tap and optional motion sensor. Charcoal filters help to soften and purify the quality of tap water while eliminating bad smells and tastes.
It's common for cats to squabble over food and/or hunger because it's such a basic survival instinct. How irritable do you get once your stomach starts rumbling, and how many times have you taken that out on other people by being short-tempered and snappy?
This is even more the case with our pets, having to rely on someone else to feed them. Automatic feeders may be useful, as they work on a timer to make sure cats have scheduled mealtimes even when you're away from home. If necessary, split meals into smaller "snacks" that you can feed more frequently without overfeeding.
5. Litter Trays
The general rule for litter trays is one per cat, plus one extra. Lidded or hooded trays are not recommended in multi-cat homes as it can cause territorial disputes around the entrance, although cats of a nervous disposition might find the privacy more comfortable. Stainless steel trays have a few advantages over plastic ones: they're longer lasting, easier to clean and don't trap nasty odours.
Cats should have enough space to turn around without being squashed or restricted, and you could try changing the type or brand of litter to one your kitty prefers. Toileting outside the litterbox can also be a sign of stress, anxiety, UTIs and other conditions.
Stainless Steel Litter Box has a smooth surface that prevents litter from sticking to the bottom and doesn't absorb smells. High anti-splash sides help to contain litter and are easily removed for cleaning.
It may seem extensive but there were times during Drax’s bullying, usually in the early hours of the morning when no one was around to supervise, that he’d trap Simba in the living room. Unable to reach a tray, Simba was forced to pee on the floor. Not only does this cause further distress, but holding in urine can cause cystitis and other urinary problems. If your kitty is too scared to go to the toilet, it's not just your floors that will suffer.
Lastly, make sure litter trays are kept clean and remove any mess as soon as possible, especially where territorial aggression is being displayed. Smelling another cat's pheromone-loaded pee all over the house is likely to piss it off even more (pardon the pun). I strongly believe this played a role in managing my own cats' behaviour after we had a problem with stray cats urine spraying outside.
Related post: What Are Cat Pheromones and How Do They Work?
6. Bedding
Each cat should have its own sleeping area, whether it’s a basket, shelf, cat tree or whatever your fur babies prefer. A territorial cat may try to drive others away by jumping or pouncing on them while they're asleep - so the higher, the better.
FEANDREA Cat Tree Tower comes in a choice of heights and provides plenty of space with thirteen scratch posts, two perches, two caves, a basket and hammock.
If you have a dominant kitty that loves to steal everyone’s beds, by giving them options you’re (hopefully) eliminating the problem. Cats love variety, so stay one step ahead by providing more than they need!
We should address the importance of a cat's sleep, as it's not just a time for rest but crucial for conserving energy. In the wild, cats must stay alert to potential threats and hunting opportunities. They're known for their short naps - hence the term "cat nap" - throughout the day due to their crepuscular nature.
This means they're most active before sunrise and sunset, as their usual prey is small rodents and birds that emerge in low light conditions, for which cats have excellent vision. Creating a safe and comfortable environment helps to improve a cat's sleep quality, behavioural health and general wellbeing.
7. Toys
Contrary to their reputation for laziness and sleeping for 16 hours a day, cats are known for their short bursts of energy or "zoomies" as they're sometimes referred to. As mentioned above, these energy reserves are used for hunting and being on alert for potential danger.
When you consider the average cat toy: feathers, mice, teasers and things with moving parts, they're all designed to stimulate a cat's predatory instincts. Therefore, it's not surprising that cats are amongst the most playful pets you can own.
Play is a form of exercise and an essential part of health and wellbeing, just like humans. Even ten minutes a day can make all the difference, especially for indoor cats that require additional stimulation. Depending on the nature and personality of your cat, some are like a can of beans waiting to explode!
The more energy that's burned off during play, the better. This means that cats will be too exhausted to fight and need to recharge their kitty batteries for the next hunt. It also helps to take the focus away from other cats, particularly victims of bullying. Offering plenty of toys in different areas or rooms of the home is an essential part of managing aggression.
If you're worried about cats fighting when you're away from home and don't want to separate them, interactive or battery-operated toys can be left for cats to entertain themselves at their own leisure.
YVE LIFE Motion Activated Cat Laser Toy has 3 speeds and a range of movement patterns - no more boring circles! Laser has a working distance of around 4 metres and is USB rechargeable.
Remember to pay particular attention to common fighting or ambush zones such as doorways and corridors. I've found scratch mats and posts to be one of the best distractions, as cats scratch to communicate their territorial rights by using the scent glands in their paws. They'll often do this in the presence of other cats, so it allows them to flex their dominance without engaging or attacking.
Lastly, if your home allows for it, offer a designated window area where cats can observe the outdoors. Bird feeders are great for attracting wildlife for a realistic cinema experience!
8. Safe Places
Offering a private space for any victim cats can help to reduce stress and boost confidence: a quiet room or area where they can’t be disturbed, huts or boxes to hide in and cat trees for height advantage. Our furry friends naturally enjoy the option of different levels, and having that all-important vantage point offers safety from predators.
Enclosed spaces can be problematic in some instances, as restricting a cat's vision makes them vulnerable to oncoming predators. I discovered this when Simba used to hide in the wardrobe and hiss whenever Drax peered through the gap in the door. It also gives bullies the perfect opportunity to block entrances, so they should be kept away from hiding places.
Fighting is more likely to occur if there aren't enough escape routes and avoidance opportunities, especially where bullying is concerned. Simba would climb any shelf or stand he could get to in order to avoid Drax’s attacks. There are plenty of options available, from free-standing to wall-mounted and even window hammocks. Ramps may be beneficial in narrow corridors, not forgetting those strategically placed scratch posts.
PawHut Cat Stand with a round bed covered in plush fabric and sturdy base to prevent toppling. Includes a jute scratching post and hanging pompom.
Two dominant cats may be harder to manage, as both will resort to aggression quicker than if one is a submissive Simba. Adding more territory to claim keeps them out of each other's ways, and it was honestly one of the best things I did for my cats. Whether you live in a one-bedroom apartment or three-storey mansion, turning your home into a cat playground can be quick, easy and relatively inexpensive.
If investing in cat trees, it's worth choosing one that has a single perch to prevent bullies from trying to encroach on another cat's territory and limit climbing opportunities. Trees with condos are great for saving space, but remember to observe your bully in case it uses huts as blocking and staring opportunities!
The main benefits of adding more resources to the home are to limit feelings of competition, avoid unpleasant encounters; provide comfort and make your cats happier overall. A possessive kitty can't guard every food bowl, bed and litter tray at the same time!
A stimulating environment with plenty of scratch posts, toys and climbing areas will create a distraction from other “target” cats so they can channel their energy into something positive and fun.
Related post: Top 10 Products I Used to Help Reintroduce Fighting Cats
9. Outdoors
If cats are free to roam outside then aggression is less easily contained and can spread beyond the boundaries of the home. Using a harness is great for control and exercise but requires more supervision, which isn’t always convenient.
It may be wise to let cats out at different times or prevent them from leaving the garden so they can't bump into strays. If your cats are fighting with a neighbour's cat then it's entirely possible that they're bringing that aggression back to the home.
Related post: The 6 Best Cat Deterrents for Gardens and Yards
PEFUNY Cat Window Hammock holds up to 18kg and can be installed on windows by suction cups or screwed into a wall. Hammock is foldable to save space and suitable for all seasons, with soft wool on one side and breathable fabric on the other.
A more costly option involves building or installing a catio (cat-patio). This is an enclosure leading from a door or window, usually constructed from a wooden frame and wire mesh. Think of it as a mini conservatory where cats can hang out and bask in the fresh air without the risk of escape. You could also have a self-contained enclosure if free access to the house isn't possible.
Omlet has some innovative designs for various outdoor spaces.
In cases of severe aggression, you might consider treating them as indoor cats while the issue is being dealt with; or permanently if it persists. Catios are great for preventing fights between neighbourhood cats.
Another danger of letting cats outdoors, particularly in cases of territorial or redirected aggression, is that picking up the scents of strays and intruders might exacerbate the situation. Even the whiff of coming face to face through a cat flap is enough to alert a sensitive kitty.
In my own experience, it was highly likely that a cat had urine sprayed in the yard and people had unknowingly trodden it into the house. Rest assured that if another cat has peed on your doorstep, any resident kitties will know about it!
What to Do If Your Cats Have Been in a Fight
As mentioned above, if cats have engaged in a physical fight - whether with a housemate or a stray - then confine them indoors to prevent further encounters and so you can monitor their behaviour. Keep offending cats separated until there's no visible tension, and don't try to soothe them in the first instance as it can take some time for adrenaline to leave the system. Both of my cats have hissed at me after a fight, so it's best to leave well alone and wait for them to approach you.
If cats are showing signs of aggression such as hissing and growling, you can place a piece of cardboard or a cushion between them to block off eye contact; or try distracting with a toy. Never use hands to separate cats, especially during a full-contact fight. A long-handled object such as a broom will prevent injury to both cats and humans, or throw a blanket over them before handling. The most important thing is to remain as calm as possible.
You'll also need to check for injuries: superficial cuts and bleeding is more easily spotted than bites, as a cat's fangs puncture the skin to create narrow holes that close up quickly and may not be noticeable through their thick fur. This can trap bacteria and cause infections or abscesses that worsen over time.
Most wounds generally heal without treatment and cats return to their normal selves, but if they appear withdrawn, limp or quieter than usual then you should consult a vet immediately. Keep claws trimmed to minimise injury to other cats.
How Can I Tell If Cats Are Fighting or Playing?
Not all cats enjoy play fighting, especially with a dominant kitty that they'd rather steer clear of; but if they do engage in a good ol' wrestling match then there's no need to break it up. In fact, this is great for bonding and helps cats to burn off energy without you having to lift a finger - or toy, in this case.
It's normal for cats to chase, pounce, roll and bat each other around. You might see them biting each other's necks while wrestling but this isn't an attempt to maim. If cats wanted to injure each other then they would, and you'd know about it from the screams of the victim. This is a scary notion, but spotting the differences between play and aggression is simple once you know how.
Play fighting is usually silent, although you might hear the odd hiss or cry if it gets rough, but cats will return to normal with no lingering tension afterwards. Occasionally, an overexcited kitty may not take the hint and continue the play session regardless. To prevent the situation from escalating, distract it with a toy and separate if necessary.
Pet Remedy plug-in diffuser contains a low concentration of valerian and essential oils to work with a cat's natural calming mechanisms when tackling stress and anxiety. Ideal for most pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents and birds.
Products That Prevent or Reduce Aggression in Cats
In addition to environmental modifications, there are many helpful products on the market that claim to reduce aggression. This is usually achieved by targeting anxiety or stress-related behaviours: scratching, urine spraying, overgrooming and hiding amongst others.
Even if anxiety isn’t the cause of fighting in multi-cat households, it can certainly be a result. The most common products include plug-in diffusers that release essential oils or pheromones (such as Feliway); calming sprays, collars and supplements.
Unfortunately, this doesn’t always solve the problem and additional steps must be taken. The most common and recommended method is the separation and reintroduction process.
Summary
Get cats checked over by a vet to rule out any medical issues or conditions.
Identify and remove potential stressors.
Ensure plenty of resources to eliminate competition (food stations, litter trays, bedding, etc).
Add more territory to help cats stay out of each other's ways.
Offer plenty of toys and playtime to burn off excess energy.
Keep cats indoors if possible.
The road to solving aggression can be a long one, and as any advice will tell you, early intervention is more likely to result in a successful outcome. One of the most common issues parents face is fighting in multi-cat households, particularly aggression between indoor cats. Even if it takes months before your fur babies can share a space together, going through the correct procedures can prevent more aggression from building up over time.
Cats may lose their bonds, be it temporarily or permanently, and the ultimate decision as to whether they can live in harmony is down to them. All we can do is aid the process, which will be much harder if they’ve built up an ingrained hatred for one other.
Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting
Mentioned Products
Do you have your own experiences with inter-cat aggression? Let us know in the comments if this article helped or share any hints and tips of your own.
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