Veterinarian explains! Causes and Solutions for Multi-Cat Households Where Cats Don't Get Along

Many cat owners have more than one cat. They opt for multiple cat households for various reasons, such as "we adopted sibling cats together" or "I thought one cat might get lonely." While having multiple cats offers the benefit of them playing together, it doesn't guarantee they'll always get along. In the worst-case scenario, they might even become unable to live together.

This article will discuss cats that don't get along.

What are the main causes of discord between cats?

Territoriality and environmental changes

Cats are naturally solitary creatures. Male cats, especially, have a strong sense of territoriality for breeding purposes and will try to protect their territory. This can be particularly strong in unneutered male cats. The arrival of a new cat can be perceived as an enemy entering their territory. For the new cat, an unfamiliar environment can cause tension, making them prone to aggression. If the first encounter doesn't go well, it can lead to fights and ongoing discord.

Insufficient litter boxes, the placement of food bowls, the number of water bowls, and a reduction in personal space for each cat can also cause conflict. Cats naturally prefer to avoid fights and maintain harmony by keeping a good distance from each other. Ensuring adequate space for each cat is crucial.

Furthermore, even cats that were previously close can see their relationship deteriorate if one goes to the vet or is hospitalized. The returning cat carries the unfamiliar scent of the hospital, which can be perceived as frightening by the other cats.

Age differences and personality types

When introducing multiple cats, it's ideal for them to be close in age. A difference of three years or less can sometimes lead to adult cats getting along well. When the age difference is small, their energy levels and interests are similar, allowing them to play together. If a kitten is introduced to a household with a senior cat, the senior cat might be overwhelmed by the kitten's energy, in which case measures such as separating rooms may be necessary.

Personality is also important. Timid cats are not well-suited for multiple-cat households. Curious cats tend to be more accepting of other cats.

Heat cycles and hormonal influences

During heat cycles, territorial instincts intensify, and cats can become more aggressive. This applies not only to male cats but also to female cats, whose temperaments can become more volatile. Consequently, even cats that usually get along can end up fighting.

Poor health and stressors

Cats can also become ill-tempered when they are feeling unwell. Especially if they are in pain, they might hiss or deliver strong swats just by being approached. Additionally, a highly stressful environment can make them irritable. This can lead to a vicious cycle where stress continues to accumulate.

Steps to improve cat relationships

Proper introduction methods for first encounters

When bringing a new cat home, immediately introducing them can lead to a big fight. Therefore, it's necessary to first isolate them and gradually acclimate them. The new cat needs time to get used to the environment, so introducing them directly to the resident cat can cause significant stress. Let the new cat get used to the new environment in a cage for a few days before introducing them to the resident cat. It takes about two weeks to a month for cats to get used to each other.

Once they are accustomed to the house, do not immediately introduce them. Instead, exchange their scents. This allows them to become aware of each other's presence. Rub towels on each cat to transfer their scents. Continue scent exchange for about one to two weeks.

Once they are used to each other's scents, introduce the new cat in a carrier. At that time, make it a positive experience by, for example, giving them treats. The first meeting should be about 5 minutes, gradually increasing the time.

If there are no strong signs of aggression from either cat, let them interact out of the carrier under your supervision. If either cat is aggressive or extremely frightened, separate them immediately. Start with about 5 minutes. If there are no particular issues, gradually extend the time and let them spend time in the same room. Always supervise them. If they seem to be interacting without problems, extend the time to half a day or more.

Ensuring litter boxes and individual spaces

Even friendly cats can become hostile due to minor environmental changes. Insufficient litter boxes or lack of personal space can lead to fights and subsequent discord. Provide at least one more litter box than the number of cats and place them in separate locations. Food bowls and water bowls also need consideration. Since proximity to other cats can cause fights, space them out a bit or place them in separate areas. The same applies to cat beds.

If you have multiple cats, you will likely notice which cats don't get along well. Consider providing escape routes or separating them into different rooms.

Alleviate stress with pheromone products, etc.

Having multiple cats or welcoming a new cat can be a major source of stress for them. To alleviate this stress, use pheromone products or stress-reducing supplements to manage their stress. There are products that replicate the pheromones secreted from a cat's face. By filling the cat's space with pheromones using sprays or diffusers, cats can feel more at ease. These are used when moving or welcoming a new cat. Some supplements are available that help alleviate stress.

Providing common play and positive experiences

Younger cats will likely enjoy being invited to play. Even hostile cats can sometimes mend their relationship through shared play. Giving treats to each cat and gradually reducing the distance between them can also be beneficial.

However, if the relationship is significantly strained, improvement is often unlikely.

Actions to avoid and points of caution

Risks of forced contact

Cats that genuinely dislike each other are extremely difficult to make live together. They usually try to keep their distance and avoid contact, but if something brings them too close, it can escalate into a severe fight, often resulting in injuries. If cats keep a considerable distance, observe each other's movements, or flatten their ears and adopt an aggressive posture when their eyes meet, a fight could break out at any moment. In such situations, it's best for both cats to avoid contact, for example, by separating them into different rooms. Forcing contact not only risks injury but also creates negative experiences for both cats.

The counterproductive effects of scolding and punishment

Cats do not understand human language. If you force cats that don't get along to interact, or scold or punish them for fighting, they might perceive it as "I had a bad experience because of you," which could worsen their relationship. It could also damage your relationship with your cats. If a fight seems imminent, cover them with a towel to block their vision and move them to separate rooms.

Don't miss a cat's signals

When a cat dislikes another cat, it tries to keep its distance. It will try to stay as far away as possible from the disliked cat and will try to pass by at a distance when it comes close. It will also often follow the disliked cat's movements with its eyes, and will quickly run away if it approaches. There are also signs in its ears and posture. If its ears are flattened back or its back is hunched, be cautious. In such situations, measures such as isolating the cats are necessary. Excessive grooming can also occur.

When to seek professional help

When to consult a behavior specialist or veterinarian

While it's best for hostile cats to keep their distance, if the situation is difficult, or if severe fights causing injuries occur repeatedly, you need to seek professional help. If stress is causing excessive grooming, or if there are mental or physical ailments such as cystitis or loss of appetite, consult a veterinarian.

Methods of professional intervention

A specialist will first review the cats' profiles. If necessary, they will examine the cats to check for pain or other issues. The cats' behavior at home may also be reviewed via video. They will also assess the home environment and advise on appropriate solutions. If needed, they may suggest anti-anxiety medications, supplements, or pheromone products.

Summary

While it's wonderful when cats get along, unfortunately, some cats just don't. Relationships can deteriorate, especially when a new cat is introduced or when environmental changes occur. Cats that don't get along will show signs. If you notice these signs, ensure they can keep their distance. It's crucial to prevent severe fights between cats.

Remember that trying to force cats to get along is often the owner's ego.

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