Cats are wonderful companions, but as with every pet, there are always complications. Behavioural issues, like aggression, can quickly upset the balance in a household.
Feline aggression is a common issue that often goes unaddressed for prolonged periods of time. After all, dog owners have easy access to trainers and obedience schools everywhere; the support is plentiful. The same cannot be said for the cat-loving community.
While there are many different types of feline aggression, territorial aggression is the most common. This typically occurs when a new cat is brought into a home with one or more existing kitties; the sudden change can be disruptive to day-to-day routines. However territorial aggression can manifest between any number of cats – one will often single out another. In many cases, these cats have even lived together peacefully for some time!
To help the affected cats cohabit peacefully, it’s important to determine the root cause of the unwanted behaviour first.
Introducing a new cat into the home
Often, when a new cat is brought into a home where other cats already live, some manner of aggression should be expected. Thankfully, this normally does not last for long as cats are generally peaceful, calm animals. However, the increase in stress and anxiety can often lead to behavioural problems, such as refusal to use the litter box, rapid, fearful eating, and more.
When introducing a new cat into the home, consider keeping her isolated for a few days. This will help her and her new roommates to learn each other’s smells. Then, begin introducing the new kitty to other supervised areas of the home, including areas where other cats frequent. Monitor their interactions, and as long as the environment remains reasonably peaceful, you shouldn’t have much to worry about.
Aggression between cats that have been coexisting peacefully
While not as common, this can certainly happen in multi-cat households. One cat may become a bully cat, picking on others over time. Because of its gradual slope, changes in behaviour like this are difficult to detect early.
There are many reasons why a cat’s behaviour can suddenly become aggressive. Illness, pain, and discomfort can make cats irritable and aggressive. It is smart to have your kitty examined by a veterinarian to ensure there are no underlying health issues.
No matter the reason for the unwanted aggression, the approach is the same.
First, separate the aggressor from the other cats in the household. This usually means designating a temporary ‘cool down’ area, like a bedroom or bathroom. Provide a separate litter box, food, and water in this area as she may need to be there for a short while. Of course, make sure she still gets plenty of love, care, and attention.
After a day or two has passed, allow the aggressive cat to be reintroduced to the rest of the household for small periods at a time. To keep a controlled setting during this time, consider using a travel carrier or cardboard box with small holes cut out of it – small enough so kitty cannot escape. Place the carrier in a common room, such as a living room, for twenty minutes at a time. Do this a few times per day for one week. The goal is to desensitize your cat to the behaviours of other cats.
After one week, ditch the carrier and welcome kitty back to the household – but for now, free time is only under supervision. Try to stick to common rooms, and observe their interactions closely. Put her back into her cool down place when you’re not able to monitor her until you’re confident the behavioural issues have corrected. If the aggressive behaviour returns at any point, start the whole process again.
There are also many great products on the market, such as wearable weighted vests and natural calming aids that may help calm aggressive cats. However, these products don’t work for every cat.
If, after trying these corrective methods several times, the aggressive behaviour does not stop, then it may be time to consider re-homing the aggressive cat.
Certain cats need to be in single-cat households to thrive, so this needs to be taken into consideration when looking at what is best for their long-term quality of life.
Brandon Forder – also known as The Pet Expert – is vice-president of Canadian Pet Connection, a family-owned and -operated business located in Meaford. He has over twenty-five years experience specializing in pet nutrition, behaviour, and lifestyle. Canadian Pet Connection is an industry leader committed to providing their clients with the highest levels of personal, attentive service. Learn more at www.CanadianPetConnection.ca
