What to Do When Cats Keep Fighting While Living Together
Nowadays, many people find having only one cat at home does not satisfy their needs. Usually, to prevent the cat from feeling lonely, two cats are kept together so they have a companion to play with. However, troubles also follow. Not all cats will get along as their owners hope, and fights can be quite upsetting. Some owners try to change this by forcing both cats into one cage, making them share a litter box or food bowl. In fact, this is wrong because it causes even greater stress and makes it impossible for them to become friends!~
Here are some methods to help:
Step One
First, make the cats desire food. Do not leave food out for them to eat anytime; feeding should be scheduled (fixed periods, not fixed times), and the total amount of food should be reduced by at least 20-30%. This increases their appetite. The remaining 20-30% can be supplemented through treats to help the cats build positive feelings toward each other.
Step Two
Initially, keep the two cats apart so they do not see each other. Set activity zones in your home, and place barriers between the two cats to prevent interaction or fighting. You must adjust this according to your home environment.
Step Three
For each meal, feed the two cats within sight of each other but at a distance that won't cause fights. Place their food at the same time and remove both food and bowls simultaneously. This way, the cats can see and smell each other's presence while eating. Doing this gradually will help the cats associate each other with food.
Step Four
Gradually shorten the feeding distance by no more than five centimeters each time. After moving closer, feed them in that spot for several days until you are sure they feel no stress while eating. Only then should you move the feeding spots closer by another five centimeters.
Step Five
If the cats become reluctant to eat after moving closer or show any signs of unease, agitation, hissing, growling, or even aggression, it means you are moving too fast. Please revert to the previous safe location and start the training again from there.
Step Six
Keep shortening the distance until the two cats can almost touch each other while calmly eating their own food.