How Do I Stop My Cat From Fighting?

Cats have many distinguishing personality traits. They can be smart, caring, funny and loving. However, they can also be tough and aggressive when it comes to defending themselves or what is important to them. Whether you have an outdoor cat that often gets into squabbles with other cats in the neighborhood, or two kitties under your own roof who dislike each other, the fighting can be stressful for you and dangerous for them. However, there are ways to prevent the fighting and to stop it if it does occur.

  1. What Goes Out Must Come In

    • Most fights occur among cats that live or enjoy spending time outdoors. Altercations can occur for many reasons, including claiming territory, food and mates. The fights can cause serious wounds, which can lead to permanent damage and dangerous infections. To protect your cat, simply keep it indoors. This will not only keep it from getting into fights but also protect it from getting hit by a car or sustaining other harm, such as abuse. It may be difficult to keep a cat accustomed to going outside indoors. It is likely to try to escape and howl or whine. Keep your cat in an enclosed area, such as a bedroom, when you leave so that it can̵7;t sneak out the door. It may take some time for your cat to get used to the indoor life, but know that it may be best for it in the long-run.

    Catankerous Companions

    • Cats that have been recently introduced, or even cats who have lived together for quite sometime, often get into cat spats. When a new cat is brought into the house, the cats that are already living there may get upset and hiss, growl and even try to fight with the new addition. Slowly introduce the new cat by keeping it isolated in a room and letting the cats smell each other under the door. Do not let the cats growl or hiss at each other. Periodically allow the cat to venture out of its room while supervising any interaction with other cats.
      Cats can get very protective of their litter boxes and food bowls, regardless if they have just met or have known each for a while. Consider separating the cats when it is time to eat and remove the food bowls when they are done to prevent any future fighting. Do not leave the cats without water; just place several bowls throughout the house. Similarly, place a few litter boxes in different areas around the house. Always keep the boxes in places from which a cat can escape if it feels threatened. For instance, don̵7;t keep the box at the end of the hallway where the cat can̵7;t get away from the other feline.

    A Little Help From Their Meds

    • When all else fails, it may be time to consider a little medicinal help. Try using a pheromone spray or diffuser, such as Feliway. Pheromones are naturally produced by cats and create a sense of calmness and well-being. This may be all the cats need to get along. If stronger drugs are necessary, your veterinarian may be able to prescribe a medication that can take the edge off the aggressor. However, blood work may be needed before the cat can be placed on the medication.

    Can't We All Just Get Along?

    • If you catch the cats fighting, it is important to stop them before they get seriously hurt. However, for your safety, never intervene using your hands or another body part. Shake a jar that is filled with coins to startle them, or try squirting the cats with water. Clapping your hands or throwing a heavy blanket over them may also break up the fight. Once they are apart, separate them, then carefully reintroduce them after a while.
      Fighting is often a part of nature, but it is important not to let things go too far. Keeping your cats happy will not only improve their lives but likely yours as well.