Multiple Cat Problems

Although we tend to think of cats as "solitary hunters," many are social animals who enjoy living in groups. But like any family, there can be problems when many cats live together, especially when they live indoors. It's up to human guardians to create an environment where two or more cats can live together peacefully.

  1. Provide Enough Litter Boxes

    • The rule of thumb is one litter box per cat with one extra. Boxes in several locations let timid cats get to at least one box without having to deal with their more assertive housemates.

    End Spraying

    • Both sterilized and unsterilized cats spray to mark their territory and define boundaries with their scent. Feliway, a synthetic copy of the "friendly" scent in a cat's cheeks, makes cats feel that it's unnecessary to spray. Catnip, too, is a friendly scent and discourages urine marking. Feliway is available as a spray or in Comfort Zone diffusers. Pet supply stores sell both.

    Avoid Food Fights

    • Wet food dishes spaced several inches apart let the cats eat without competing for space. Timid cats will feel more comfortable if their dishes are in high places or in separate rooms. For cats who free feed, at least two feeding areas lessen competition and stress.

    Think High

    • Floor-to-ceiling cat trees, window perches and high pieces of furniture all increase the cats' usable territory and lessen stress.

    Think Low, Too

    • Kitty condos with cubbyholes, tunnels and empty cartons increase usable territory by providing hiding places and quiet spaces for naps.

    Get Them Outside

    • An outdoor enclosure or cat-proof fence (see Resources) also expands the cats' territory and decreases stress.