How to Control Aggressive Behavior Among Cats That Fight

Cats naturally want to defend themselves when placed in a defensive situation, according to NativeRemedies.com. This aggression is increasingly seen in a cat that experiences socialization problems with other cats and humans, a male-to-male rivalry or a maternal fear to protect kittens. Symptoms of cat aggression include a crouching position, dilated eyes, fur puffed up and claws stretched out. Before trying to control the aggression yourself, visit your vet to make sure the aggression isn't a sign of a serious medical condition.

Things You'll Need

  • Spray bottle or horn
  • Cat food
  • Cat toys
  • Towel
  • Scullcap
  • Chamomilla
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Instructions

    • 1

      Expose your cat to other animals, people and situations at a young age. Create a play group for your cat by inviting other people over who own cats. Includetoys for the cats to play with. This will help teach your cat to be comfortable around other cats.

    • 2

      Do not reassure your pet with soothing sounds and petting after he is aggressive toward another cat. This type of behavior will encourage the aggression because the cat will feel rewarded by you. Be strict with him and let him know when he did something wrong. AnimalHealthChannel.com suggests using a spray bottle or horn to punish the cat.

    • 3

      Stay away from your cat while she is upset and in a state of aggression. Pawprints and Purrs, Inc. suggests placing the cat in a dark, closed room until she no longer feels frightened and aggressive. This could take hours or days. If the cat is only aggressive toward another cat, keep the cats separated until the aggression dies down.

    • 4

      Reintroduce the aggressive cats to each other slowly. Try feeding each cat at the same time, which is a distraction and enjoyable act. Keep them far enough apart so they are relaxed, but close enough for them to see one another. As they become more comfortable, continue to move the food dishes closer together.

    • 5

      Rub a towel over one cat and then use the same towel to rub the other cat. Continue to do this so that they become comfortable with each other's scent. Switch litter pans and food dishes every so often, too, to make them comfortable with the presence of one another.

    • 6

      Incorporate herbs into your cat's diet that, according to NativeRemedies.com, help promote a peaceful demeanor in animals. These include scullcap and chamomilla, which can help soothe your pet and decrease excitability and stress. Follow the directions that come on the label of each herb supplement.