*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. This is an honest review of a free product. I may receive a small commission on purchases made through links in this article, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support my blog and pay the cat taxes - thank you! In this article: About the Brand What Can I Expect from Edgard & Cooper? Dry Food Wet Food Treats Final Thoughts About the Brand Is your cat overweight, lazy or sluggish? Do they have stinky toilet habits, a dull coat or dandruff? It could be down to a diet of processed junk, with low amounts of animal-based protein and an excess of grains and fillers. If the food you're buying isn't making your cat happy or healthy, you're not alone. Edgard & Cooper is a young but fast-growing company based in Germany, founded by two friends and their dogs - Edgard and Cooper! The pair made it their mission to create pet food that's not only delicious and healthy, but uses human-grade meat that's gently cooked. After many years of research and partnering with universities, they found the perfect recipes and are now selling healthy cat and dog food in 13 countries. Special delivery from Edgard & Cooper! Since then, Edgard & Cooper has become a leading independent premium pet food brand in Europe. In 2024, it was acquired by US food giant, General Mills, but continues to operate separately. The company was kind enough to send me samples of their cat food range including wet food, kibble and some tasty treats that I can't wait to share with you. Of course, the final verdict lies with our important tester cats - read on to discover their ratings! Shop on the Edgard & Cooper website, Amazon and other online retailers. They also have availability in select stores across the UK, including Pets at Home. What Can I Expect from Edgard & Cooper? Before we get to the juicy stuff, here's a little more about what the company offers and how it differs from many of the brands you'll have seen on the shelves of Tesco. Psst.... in case you missed it, I share my thoughts on commercial food here: The Truth About Commercial Cat Food: What Really Goes into Your Pet's Food? ✓ Fresh, natural ingredients. ✓ Gently cooked to preserve nutrition and flavour. ✓ Sourced from local suppliers wherever possible. ✓ Recyclable packaging. ✓ 1% of sales donated to charity. All in all, Edgard & Cooper is good for pets, good for the planet and, consequently, good for you. If you're interested in learning more, you can read their sustainability plan and impact report. It's important to note that, while Edgard & Cooper uses fresh meat in their recipes, it isn't the same as a raw or fresh food company that delivers chilled or frozen meals. It does, however, come with many other benefits that sets it apart from your average supermarket brands. Edgard & Cooper Other Food ✓ Human-quality meat and fish packed with protein. ✕ Overly processed meat and offal. ✓ Herbs, berries and flowers for extra fibre, nutrients and antioxidants. ✕ Unspecified ingredients. ✓ Sweet potatoes, a low-glycaemic carbohydrate. ✕ Low protein content and quality. ✓ Well-balanced, wholesome recipes. ✕ Packed with grains and fillers. ✓ Grain and gluten-free. ✕ High in carbohydrates. ✓ No artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. ✕ Harder to digest. Dry Food Overview The entire Edgard & Cooper cat food range is grain-free and gluten-free, which is promising for all cats but especially those with allergies. Their complete dry food contains human-grade meat - no meat meal, bone meal or any other unnamed derivatives that manufacturer's don't want you to know about. To be clear, all meat has to be dried and processed in order to produce kibble. Think of the difference between baking a homemade cake with fresh ingredients and whipping up a packet mix - there's a clear winner in terms of nutrition. Main benefits: Fresh meat/fish to support strong muscles. Salmon oil for healthy skin and shiny fur. Taurine to support the eyes and heart. L-carnitine to promote metabolism. Dried chicory to support a healthy gut. No added sugar. Flossie polishing off the salmon kibble. Packaging The packaging is made from recyclable paper and bioplastic, which is great for the environment but they aren't self-seal bags. This isn't a huge issue as dry food keeps for ages, but if buying this food on a regular basis, you might want to store it in an airtight container for maximum freshness. Flavours Flavour options include: Adult cats: Chicken; Salmon; Turkey & Chicken Kitten: Duck & Chicken Senior: Chicken & Turkey I received the chicken and salmon flavour kibbles for adult cats. Let's take a closer look at some of the ingredients. Fresh Chicken Dry Food Free-range chicken kibble for adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Fresh chicken 50%, peas, potato (dried), potato starch, potato protein, pea protein, minerals, chicken gravy, chicken fat, linseed, yeasts (dried, natural source of mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) and beta-glucans) 1.5%, chicory (dried, natural source of fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) and inulin) 1%, beet pulp (dried), salmon oil 0.5%, cranberries (dried) 0.003%, sage (dried) 0.003%, valerian (dried) 0.003%. More NUTRITIONAL ADDITIVES (per kg): Vitamin A 20,000 IU, vitamin D3 1,750 IU, vitamin E 250mg, zinc (zinc sulphate, monohydrate) 100mg, iodine (calcium iodate, anhydrous) 1.5mg, copper (copper(II) sulphate, pentahydrate) 10mg, manganese (manganous sulphate, monohydrate) 30mg, taurine 1,500mg, DL-methionine, technically pure 3,000mg, L-carnitine 100mg, selenium (sodium selenite) 0.2mg. 399.4 kcal per 100g Unlike most cat foods, we're not left guessing the calorie content either! Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 30% Protein: 32.60% Fat: 17% Fat: 18.47% Fibre: 2.5% Fibre: 2.71% Ash: 7.5% Ash: 8.15% Moisture: 8% Carbohydrates: 38.04% *DMB = Percentages with moisture removed. Review Most grain-free cat foods contain vegetables as an alternative energy source, especially potatoes as the starch is used as a binding agent in kibble. What stands out with Edgard & Cooper is that recipes only use sweet potato, which has a lower glycaemic index. This means it's digested slower and results in a smaller sugar spike, keeping your cat's tummy fuller for longer so they're less likely to snack. The inclusion of potato and peas does bump up the carbohydrate content, which I'd expect with bog-standard food; but it's more than I'd like to see in a brand like this. Recipes also contain pea protein which, again, is commonly used as a substitute for animal-based protein; however, it's not a main ingredient. The exact percentages of potatoes and peas are not given, but the amount of carbohydrates gives us a good idea of how many grains or veggies are being added to any particular food. In this case, 38.04% on a dry matter basis is even higher than protein at 32% DMB. The percentage of meat decreases after being cooked due to the evaporation of water, which could explain the heavy use of vegetables. Some might call this a disadvantage of using fresh meat. If you aren't sure how to do the maths then it's very simple and can be found here: How to Calculate Carbohydrates in Cat Food and Understanding Dry Matter Basis What we do know is that the primary ingredient is fresh chicken at 50%. Taking a closer look at this, since it's the most important part of a cat's diet, 30% crude protein doesn't sound like anything special, especially since we don't know how much of that is animal-based. However, I'd rather see 30% of labelled, quality ingredients than 50% of crap. The food contains a moderate amount of fat, which cats would benefit from in the wild; but as dry food is more calorie-dense than wet food, portion control is extremely important. The use of chicken fat and salmon oil also reduces the (unnecessary) need for plant-based ingredients. Free-range chicken is an ethical bonus. The kibble pieces aren't too large or small and quite flat, making them easy to chew for both adults and older cats; although the range does include a separate kibble especially formulated for seniors. For kittens, the pieces are significantly smaller. Simba diving into the chicken kibble - you have to see it to believe it! Tester's Verdict I don’t often use my notoriously picky-eating cats for testing food, especially Simba who'll only entertain a couple of different kibbles (despite my ongoing efforts to get him onto wet food). To my amazement, he took to the chicken flavour without any bribery or encouragement from me whatsoever! If you know my incredibly fussy, incredibly demanding little boy then you'll know that getting the paws-up for.... well, pretty much anything.... is a big win, so I have to give credit where it's due. The bad news? This was the only thing he would eat out of all the goodies on offer, but that's no reflection on the food - just Simba being Simba. If you've never met a cat that rejected every brand of treats available, you have now! The salmon flavour went down incredibly well with the other testers - aka, my nieces and nephew. Kit and Nobby are on the greedier side, but it was fussy Flossie that attempted to break into the bag before the kibble was even poured into a bowl. Nobby isn't sharing! Conclusion Dry food is never going to be the best dietary option for cats, but it's known for being a good cost-effective option. That being said, naturally, you're going to pay more for the meat content of Edgard & Cooper. This alone makes it a big step-up from your basic commercial food - and even some of the leading premium brands - but the protein and carbohydrate contents are about average. Overall, if you're already paying for the likes of certain "premium" brands then you might as well use that money for something that actually gives pets the nutrition they need - which Edgard & Cooper does marginally better. Related post: 5 Best Dry Cat Foods 2026 As well as the generic feeding directions provided on the packaging, each product page on the website includes a feeding calculator so you can work out the correct portion size for your specific cat. I tested this against my own calculations and it's fairly accurate. Perhaps most importantly, both kibbles passed the furry palettes of two of our most pickiest eaters. Wet Food Overview Edgard & Cooper's wet cat food range (complete) offers a selection of chunks in sauce and pâté. Fillets are available as a complimentary snack. Main benefits of chunks in sauce and pâté: Packed full of protein with meat/fish and nutritious offal (the good by-products like muscle tissue, organs and bone). Taurine to support the eyes and heart. No added sugar. Packaging All of Edgard & Cooper's wet food cans are made from metal, which is not only recyclable but has natural preservative properties to keep those important nutrients locked in. Food lasts for up to 24 months, helping to reduce waste and spoilage. Flavours Flavour options for chunks in sauce and pâté include: Adults: Chicken; Turkey & Chicken; Lamb & Chicken; Salmon & Chicken Kittens: Duck & Chicken; Codfish & Chicken Seniors: Chicken & Turkey Flavour options for fillets include: All ages: Tuna; Tuna & Chicken; Tuna & Shrimp; Tuna & Squid; Salmon & Tuna; Salmon & Chicken; Salmon & Mackerel; Mackerel; Chicken; Chicken & Turkey. I received all flavours of the chunks in sauce and pâté; as well as the tuna and tuna & chicken fillets. Let's take a closer look at some of the ingredients. Lamb & Chicken Chunks in Sauce Juicy lamb and free-run chicken in sauce for adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Chicken 40%, lamb 7%, beef 6%, minerals, sage (dried) 0.02%, turmeric (dried) 0.02%, cranberries (dried) 0.01%. More NUTRITIONAL ADDITIVES (per kg): Vitamin D3 320 IU, vitamin E 30 mg, zinc (zinc sulphate, monohydrate) 10 mg, manganese (manganese(II) oxide) 2.1 mg, iodine (potassium iodide) 0.2 mg, taurine 400 mg. 83.9 kcal per 100g Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 9% Protein: 50% Fat: 5% Fat: 27.77% Fibre: 0.2% Fibre: 1.11% Ash: 2.5% Ash: 13.88% Moisture: 82% Carbohydrates: 7.22% Kit diving in - literally! Review This wet food provides a good balance of protein and fat that's much closer to a cat's natural diet than the dry food variety - and not a pea or potato in sight. Notice how this lowers the carbohydrate content to less than a quarter of that in the kibble, and it contains significantly less calories. With nothing but meat, offal and a small percentage of herbs and berries, this is purrfect for the carnivorous kitty. These recipes claim to use "free-run" chicken and turkey which, technically, isn't the same as free-range, as animals are still confined within a barn rather than having outdoor access. However, the company is very open about their mission to push for higher welfare - more on this can be found in the ethics and sustainability section at the end. I appreciate a short, clear ingredients list with no nasties hidden under umbrella terms like "meat meal", "vegetable derivatives" or "cereals" - which, let's be honest, has become the unacceptable norm. The only thing I'd like to see here is named offal, just to confirm that it is indeed the nutritious parts of animals being used. Happy cats and full tummies. The crude protein is at 50% - again, not a huge increase from what we're used to seeing - but the human-grade meat and absence of fillers makes it a worthy trade-off. It's also worth mentioning that all of these recipes contain 7% beef, hence the importance of checking the label. All products on the brand's website include an allergy section, which is helpful when choosing the best food for your kitty. These meals don't look particularly appetising, but that's the point. No artificial colours or flavours to create that overpowering "meaty" smell - just simple chunks in a light sauce, which is all you really need. Cats don't rate their plates like humans do; in fact, those bright caramel gravies are more for your eyes to tempt you into buying the product. Kit trying to muscle in on Nobby's meal. Tester's Verdict I’m equally surprised to report that the chunks in sauce went down reasonably well with Drax who, as you may know, is on a urinary diet, but we don't want him feeling left out - a little treat never hurts! I did mash up the chunks because he has an aversion to the texture, but I have to do the same with his urinary food. I didn't have to do the usual mixing old food with new food or follow him around for half a day in the hopes that he'd try it. He only ignored it the first couple of times, which for Drax is quite the achievement! While he didn't lick his bowl clean, I'm certain it's a brand he could get used to as the occasional treat. Since he can't have much of this food, I only gave him the lamb & chicken flavour. The remaining tins were devoured by Nobby and Kit, who chased their mum around demanding more. Flossie doesn't eat wet food and is no closer to changing her mind - we tried! Salmon & Chicken Pâté Silky soft pâté with tandem of salmon from an MSC-certified sustainable fishery and free-run chicken. For adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Chicken 49%, MSC* salmon 10%, minerals, basil (dried) 0.02%, cranberries (dried) 0.02%, dill (dried) 0.02%. More NUTRITIONAL ADDITIVES (per kg): Vitamin E 30 mg, zinc (zinc sulphate, monohydrate) 20 mg, manganese (manganous sulphate, monohydrate) 6 mg, copper (copper(II) sulphate, pentahydrate) 1 mg, iodine (calcium iodate, anhydrous) 0.5 mg, taurine 450 mg. 93.2 kcal per 100g Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 9.5% Protein: 48.71% Fat: 6% Fat: 30.76% Fibre: 0.4% Fibre: 2.05% Ash: 2.5% Ash: 12.82% Moisture: 80.5% Carbohydrates: 5.64% Review I usually find pâté to be a little mousse-like in texture with an unpleasantly strong smell, but this was firmer and didn't require a peg on my nose. I didn't go as far as tasting it, but you can see the quality in its appearance. The salmon used in the salmon & chicken flavour pâté is MSC-certified, which means it's wild-caught and sustainable, helping to prevent overfishing. In comparison to the chunks in sauce, neither is particularly better or worse than the other; although the pâtés contain more calories. They both have meat as the primary ingredients, with the pâté slightly higher at 59% (chunks in sauce 54%); followed by a small amount of herbs and berries. Kit sampling some chicken pâté. The pâté also comes in a fair bit cheaper per tin, which will save the pennies if you're on a budget. The main difference is texture, and the best choice will be whatever your cat prefers. There are two kitten pâtés, which is a good option when weaning them off milk onto solid food; and a senior formula for easy chewing. Also in this range are a selection of organic pâtés. Tester's Verdict Drax isn't too keen on pâté and, unfortunately, this wasn't enough to sway him. All flavours were gobbled up by Nobby and Kit without hesitation. Tuna & Chicken Fillets Shredded tuna topped with chicken pieces in a mouthwatering broth for cats over eight weeks old, including sterilised ones. Fillets are a 100% natural complimentary food that can be given alongside any other complete food as a tasty snack. Feeding directions advise giving cats no more than one tin per day - personally, I'd limit any kind of fish to once a week. Ingredients: Tuna 60%, chicken 4%, fish broth, tapioca starch. Analytical Constituents: Crude protein 16%, crude fat 0.5%, crude fibre 1%, crude ash 2%, moisture 80.5%. 71.1 kcal per 100g Drax loves his tuna fillets! Review As a complimentary food, the analytical constituents aren't overly important for these fillets but I've included them as given on the label. All we need to know is that they're high in animal protein and moisture with minimal carbohydrates. Tapioca starch is usually added for thickening. Edgard & Cooper only use skipjack tuna in their fillets, as this species is not endangered and richer in flavour. They're also low in environmental pollutants like mercury, making it a safer option for seafood lovers. Upon opening the tin, it appeared no different to human food - in fact, I dare say it looked better! Tester's Verdict These pink, fresh, juicy fillets were scoffed in one go by Mr Drax after diving headfirst into the bowl. None of the other cats got a look in, what more can I say? Treats Overview Edgard & Cooper treats offer a selection of pillows, crunchies and rolls for cats over six months old. Main benefits: Made with human-grade meat/fish. Grain-free. No added sugar. Packaging All treats come in plastic packaging that's resealable for freshness. They're designed for recycling in many areas but it depends on your local collection. Flavours Flavour options include: Pillows: Chicken; Salmon; Turkey Crunchies: Chicken; Salmon Rolls: Chicken & Turkey; Salmon & Chicken I received the chicken pillows, chicken crunchies and salmon & chicken rolls. Let's take a look! Drax guarding his chicken pillows. Chicken Pillows Delicious rewards that are crunchy on the outside with a soft, creamy centre. Ingredients: Pea starch, chickpeas (dried), fresh chicken 14%, chicken fat, sweet potato (dried), pea protein, lignocellulose, chicken gravy, minerals. Analytical Constituents: Crude protein 17%, crude fat 16.5%, crude fibre 5.5%, crude ash 5.9%. 373 kcal per 100g (less than 2 kcal per treat) Chicken Crunchies A variety of shapes with a hint of catnip for playing and relaxing. Ingredients: Fresh chicken 30%, potato starch, pea starch, pea protein, potato protein, chicken fat, chicken gravy, lignocellulose, catnip 1%, minerals. Analytical Constituents: Crude protein 33%, crude fat 10%, crude fibre 2.7%, crude ash 5% 378 kcal per 100g Kit hoovering up the salmon & chicken rolls. Salmon & Chicken Rolls Soft, meaty rolls for hunting and chasing. Ingredients: Chicken 76%, salmon 10%, potato flakes, minerals, psyllium seed husks, yeasts. Analytical Constituents: Crude protein 31%, crude fat 21%, crude fibre 2%, crude ash 7%, moisture 27%. 345 kcal per 100g Flossie can't get enough of the chicken crunchies with catnip! Review This is a fun variety of treats for different occasions, with good flavour and texture options for the particular pussy cat. The pillows and crunchies are like standard treat biscuits and contain chicken, as well as potatoes and peas, as main ingredients. The rolls are softer and "meatier", as well as being healthier in terms of nutrition and having the fewest calories per 100g. The pillows are described as containing less than 2 kcal per treat. Since treats should be limited and make up less than 10% of a cat's diet, the nutritional specifics aren't too much of an issue, and we still have a healthy dose of quality meat in there. Which, compared to the usual "meat derivatives" and "vegetable by-products", is worth the extra pennies. More queues for the treats. Tester's Verdict Drax is a big fan of pillow treats and, as expected, he took to Edgard & Cooper's chicken pillows after a thorough inspection. They're a little harder than his usual brands, but he didn't seem to mind the extra crunch of fresh meaty goodness. The chicken crunchies took a little more convincing but eventually disappeared when I wasn't looking - he only went and broke into the bag! Unfortunately, the salmon & chicken rolls were rejected but quickly snatched up by the remaining tester cats. Even Flossie went crazy for them, which is a first. Flossie checking her order. Final Thoughts I’m not exaggerating when I say that I'm shocked at how well Drax and Simba responded to this food, as we all know my fussy felines are less than ideal testers. In my opinion, this only confirms the positive feedback I received from the other kitties. Absolutely nothing went to waste and there were no tummy upsets after eating. I'll almost certainly be purchasing a few favourites in the future! There aren't many cat food brands using human-quality meat in their recipes that are available in the UK, and of those that exist, you'll likely find meals containing higher amounts of protein - whether they're as tasty, only your cats will tell you. However, there are many other reasons to invest in Edgard & Cooper. Ethics and Sustainability The company's ethical practices are impressive to say the least. They do a lot for the pet community, animals and the planet - from charity work to sustainability and the careful sourcing of ingredients. Of course, we can never be sure that suppliers are doing everything they say they're doing, but this is part of Edgard & Cooper's mission. As a vegetarian myself, I wanted to share this important statement from the brand's website: “We’ve been pushing industry norms: 93% of our meat, fish and offal is of EU standard, where the Five Freedoms are a legal requirement, and we frequently go further than this with higher welfare ingredients in 52% of our products (organic, MSC, ASC, Initiative Tierwohl, plant-based)." All bowls licked clean! Along with tracing their ingredients and pushing for better animal welfare, Edgard & Cooper have a Zero Pawprint Plan. They're one of the only pet food brands that print the carbon score of their products onto the packaging. It's this level of transparency that helps customers to compare options and make informed decisions about the food they're buying. No cat food is perfect, but I wouldn't recommend any product that I didn't believe had some value - and I certainly wouldn't feed it to my cats. If you're looking for better quality food than what you're currently feeding or want to try something different, Edgard & Cooper is a safe option - especially their wet food, which is more nutritionally balanced in my opinion. If you need help transitioning cats to new food, this post has you covered: How to Change a Cat's Food with 10 Tasty Tips Nom nom nom. Customer Feedback At the time of writing this, Edgard & Cooper has a rating of 4.6 / 5 stars on Trustpilot. This represents a great experience amongst pets and owners alike. Positive feedback includes: Good variety of products for cats and dogs, including those with allergies. Pets love the taste of food, including picky eaters - which I can 100% agree with! Improved health and wellbeing. Fast delivery and easy-to-use website with subscribe and save plan available. Good customer service. Option of donating loyalty points to animal shelters. Only a handful of reviews are less than 3 stars and usually report issues with delivery. There appears to be minimal gut problems or other adverse reactions to this food, and pets rarely dislike it. The company has replied to over 90% of negative reviews and frequently offers a solution. Head over to the Edgard & Cooper website to browse their large range of cat and dog food, or check out their blog for some pawsome posts. Don't miss out on getting 15% off your first order with code: HELLO15 (only valid on the official Edgard & Cooper website). Have you tried this brand? Did your kitties approve? Share your experiences and feedback in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on extensive research into products, brands and customer feedback. Top Picks at a Glance View full details ⇨ Best Ultrasonic Repellent ZeroCat Repellent Advanced Ultrasonic Cat Deterrent ✓ Emits ultrasonic frequencies that are uncomfortable for cats but inaudible to humans. ✓ Won't harm animals and wildlife. ✓ Suitable for long-term use. View full details ⇨ Best Budget Ultrasonic Repellent Cowiewie 2 Pack Ultrasonic Cat Repellent ✓ Emits ultrasonic frequencies that target a range of animals and wildlife. ✓ Cover a larger area with 2 devices. ✓ Solar powered and cost-effective. View full details ⇨ Best Urine Repellent Spray C&G Urine Stop Spray Cat and Dog Repellent ✓ Contains feline aversive scents and masks the smell of urine. ✓ Pet safe and eco-friendly. ✓ Large easy-to-use spray bottle. View full details ⇨ Best Scatter Granules The Big Cheese Cat Stop Scatter Granules ✓ Contains feline aversive scents and masks the smell of urine. ✓ Pet safe and biodegradable. ✓ Slow-release, long-lasting formula. View full details ⇨ Best Gel Crystals Get Off Cat and Dog Repellent Gel Crystals ✓ Contains feline aversive scents and soaks up urine. ✓ Pet safe and eco-friendly. ✓ Creates a protective barrier around problem areas. View full details ⇨ Best Jet Spray PestBye Jet Spray Cat Repellent ✓ Trains cats to avoid areas without causing any harm. ✓ Protects lawns. ✓ Suitable for long-term use. View full details ⇨ Best Scarers DIVCHI 3 Pack of Cat Scarers ✓ Non-invasive and easy to set up. ✓ Durable and weatherproof. ✓ Suitable for long-term use. View full details ⇨ Best Anti-Cat Mat Kyrieval Spiked Mat Deterrent ✓ Safe to use without causing injury to cats. ✓ Easy to install and durable. ✓ Multifunctional for different areas. Are you having problems with four-legged invaders? This article covers the best cat deterrents for gardens and yards, with eight effective methods for keeping strays off your property. Hurrah to poop-free lawns, patios, flowerbeds and plants - not forgetting about those sneaky fence hoppers. With these budget-friendly recommendations, getting rid of outdoor cats in a safe and humane manner doesn't have to cost the earth. First things first, how do products actually work? Cat deterrents, while pretty self-explanatory, are used to repel cats and can be used in a variety of situations, both inside and outside of the home. These include: Stopping cats from fouling, digging or generally making a mess of your carefully tended rose beds. Avoiding potential danger such as toxic plants (I'll say here that it's probably easier and safer to remove any poisonous greenery from the house or garden, wherever possible). Clawing furniture or urine marking. Having experienced my own problems with cats urine spraying in the yard and upsetting my resident fur children, I know how frustrating it can be - not to mention the time-consuming (and at times expensive) task of scouring the internet for a cat repellent that works. As territorial creatures, cats will stop at almost nothing to spread their scent around - whether it's peeing in your plant beds, digging up your seedlings or using your patio as a sunbed. As much as I respect and admire all cats, the risk of losing your territory to a horde of furry invaders is very real! Related post: How to Stop Cats Spraying and Urine Marking Outside Your Home with 8 Tips How to keep cats out of your garden depends on the layout of the garden itself. Is it more lawn than patio? Do you have an enclosed yard? Is it bordered by fence panels or hedges? Are there extensive flowerbeds and plants? Do you have lots of bird feeders? Some outdoor spaces may be easier to protect than others, but the trick is to make your garden as uninviting (to a cat) as possible. Unfortunately, that could mean saying goodbye to wildlife, too. Strays aside, you might have your own resident kitty that you want to keep away from certain areas of the garden without getting the hosepipe out every ten seconds. Kidding - no one should be spraying their cats. If you're facing the same problems as me and don't know where to start, I can take some of the guesswork out for you by listing my 8 best outdoor cat deterrents of 2026. Best Cat Deterrents for Gardens and Yards Best Ultrasonic Repellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ZeroCat Repellent Advanced Ultrasonic Cat Deterrent *Sponsored product Unlike spray-based repellents, ZeroCat Repellent doesn't rely on smells or chemicals to discourage cats. Instead, it works on a biological level by exploiting cats' highly sensitive hearing. The device emits targeted ultrasonic frequencies (16-60 kHz) that are uncomfortable for cats but inaudible to humans, making it discreet and non-invasive. Cats use scent and territory memory to decide where to return. When they repeatedly experience an aversive ultrasonic stimulus in a specific area, they quickly learn to avoid it. As there are no chemicals involved, ZeroCat is eco-friendly, pet-safe and suitable for use in gardens, lawns, patios and vegetable patches. Usage Simply place the device in the ground using the stake or mount it on a wall with the included hook. No configuration, no calibration and no maintenance beyond battery replacement. The device covers up to 30 feet with a 110° detection angle, which is more than enough for targeted zones. In larger gardens or areas with multiple access points, using more than one device is recommended. Powered by 3 AA batteries, ZeroCat offers around 6 months of autonomy with continuous day-and-night operation. Customer Reviews The repellent receives strong feedback for effectiveness and ease of use. Most users report visible results within the first few days, with some seeing immediate changes in cat behaviour. Ultrasonic repellents can divide opinion, largely because not all devices are calibrated specifically for cats. ZeroCat performs better than generic animal deterrents thanks to its cat-targeted frequency range and responsive PIR sensor. Some cats may test the area once or twice before avoiding it, especially if pheromones are already present. Cleaning the area beforehand significantly improves success by removing scent markers that attract repeat visits. Conclusion While sprays remain one of the cheapest short-term solutions, they require constant reapplication and become costly over time. ZeroCat Repellent works continuously without smells or ongoing purchases and is particularly well suited for gardens and lawns where repeated spraying would be impractical. For larger areas, the cost can add up if multiple units are needed; but the long battery life and proven effectiveness make it a solid long-term investment. ✓ Targeted specifically for cats. ✓ Can be hung or mounted anywhere in the garden. ✓ Covers up to 30 feet. ✓ Inaudible to humans. ✕ Requires batteries. ✕ Expensive. Best Budget Ultrasonic Repellent ⭐⭐⭐ Cowiewie 2 Pack Ultrasonic Cat Repellent Another ultrasonic option, Cowiewie Cat Repellent has high-efficiency dual speakers that emit frequencies of 13.5-45.5 kHz to repel unwanted cats, dogs, foxes, squirrels, rodents, birds and other wildlife without harming them. This gives it a broad range of use, with flashing LED lights to further startle animals. The repellent is water and weatherproof for use in all seasons. It also comes in a pack of two, providing better protection for larger gardens. Usage The Cowiewie Ultrasonic Repellent has a standard ground stake and holes for easy wall mounting. The PIR motion sensor has a coverage angle of 120° and detection distance of up to 11 metres. The device emits a sound that irritates animals while being inaudible to humans, and there are five setting modes depending on which animal you wish to repel. If you're an owner of cats or other pets then it's best mounted away from living areas to avoid causing discomfort. The repellent comes with a built-in solar panel that provides a full-day charge, as well as a USB charging port, offering two cost-effective power sources. Customer Reviews Cowiewie Ultrasonic Repellent has a fair rating for its overall effectiveness, compact size and easy set up. Some customers with sensitive hearing complain about the noise, and the device's charging ability has mixed feedback. If you want to use the solar panel but live in a region with cloudy weather, you can station the stake into a plant pot that can be moved around the garden to the most convenient spot. Conclusion Cowiewie Repellent is designed to keep cats and other animals out of gardens before they become a nuisance - and waterproof, making it more convenient than sprays or granules. Since cats are attracted to wildlife, keeping birds and rodents away will likely mean less four-legged intruders. With two devices in a pack, it's an effective multifunctional product at a budget price - without the need for battery replacement. However, since it's not automatically targeted for cats, it requires some calibration. ✓ 2 devices to target multiple areas. ✓ Flashing LED lights. ✓ Solar powered and USB rechargeable. ✓ Covers up to 11 metres each. ✕ Doesn't emit cat-specific frequency. Best Urine Repellent Spray ⭐⭐⭐ C&G Urine Stop Spray Cat and Dog Repellent Marketed as both a cat and dog repellent, the active ingredients in C&G Urine Stop Spray are the same as what you'll find in any cat-specific product. Citrus and lemongrass are common and effective cat repellents due to their fresh scents, and lemongrass acts as an anti-microbial agent. These natural ingredients are paraben-free, making it pet and eco-friendly. Unlike other options, it's suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Urine contains pheromones and is the biggest attractant for cats, so eliminating this temptation may stop them from wanting to pee in your garden. It also helps to reduce other unwanted behaviours such as digging and scratching. Worse-case scenario, you have a house or garden that smells of lemons! Usage For best results, wash areas where there's evidence of territorial marking before application. Once dry, spray C&G Urine Stop liberally over the area. Citrus and geranium oils help to mask any remaining smells, while the deterrent action trains cats away from problem areas. Lemongrass helps to neutralise odours and inhibit the growth of bacteria. It's recommended to respray areas every 2-3 days in order to protect gardens and furniture, as it doesn't have the same lasting effect as chemical cleaners. With a large 500ml bottle, C&G Urine Stop is averagely priced against competitors. Visit Customer Reviews Most repellent sprays on the market have mixed reviews, which isn't surprising given the nature of cats. Some will turn and run from an offending pong, while more dominant cats will want to remark the area. It's important to remember that sprays aren't designed to remove urine, so it's essential to clean the area first with a strong disinfectant. This method may take some persistence, but it's a safe and humane option for tackling urine problems. Customers find C&G Urine Stop to have a fresh, pleasant aroma - even if cats don't! - and since it's safe to use on furniture, there's no need to worry about damaging your decor. Conclusion While cat repellent sprays are undoubtedly one of the simplest and cheapest solutions, it requires regular spraying and reapplication every time it rains - so for my fellow Brits, not so cheap after all! It will also bump up the cost for larger areas, making it impractical for lawns. I'd suggest using a good spray for targeting areas around doors to keep cats away from the house, particularly if you have any resident kitties. Sprays are more geared towards preventing the spread of urine and work best when applied to hard surfaces such as yards and patios. It's a good first option before investing in more expensive measures, and it's safe to use on a regular basis if cats are repeatedly visiting an area. ✓ Contains citrus, geranium oils and lemongrass. ✓ Targets urine spraying. ✓ Can be used indoors and outdoors. ✓ Won't harm plants or animals. ✕ Requires regular application. ✕ Not waterproof. Best Scatter Granules ⭐⭐⭐ The Big Cheese Cat Stop Scatter Granules Crystals or granules are designed to mask traces of pheromones in urine with strong, feline-aversive scents. This confuses a cat's sense of smell, training them to move to other areas where there's evidence of territorial marking (fouling or digging). Similar to sprays, Cat Stop Scatter Granules contain an all-natural blend of plant oils that's safe to use on lawns, soil, gravel and patios without posing a danger to pets or wildlife. Incorporated with biodegradable clay substrate, it naturally degrades without leaving any traces. Usage Choose a dry day to sprinkle the granules evenly over affected areas and repeat every 48 hours or until the problem has ceased. The slow-release formula should last longer than sprays but can be swept away in windy conditions. For granules to be most effective, the area should be cleared of fouling beforehand. One pack treats up to 250m² and it's suitable for outdoor use only. Customer Reviews Both granules and sprays have the same mixed opinions from users, as well as the downfall of being easily washed away. The smell is less desirable than the citrus that's common in repellent sprays, so it may not be ideal for vegetable patches. These methods are most suitable for spring and summer months when rainfall is lighter. With a large surface area covered by a single pack, Cat Stop Scatter Granules are a small and worthwhile investment. They're most effective when used correctly and consistently. Conclusion Depending on the area you wish to treat, the main benefit of granules is that they can be applied to pebbled or gravelled spaces and soil, making it an effective urine repellent for lawns, flowerbeds and driveways. With a pet-safe, environmentally-friendly formula that naturally degrades over time, it won't cause any harm to your cats or garden. Using alongside repellent sprays to target different areas of your property offers a cost-effective, short-term solution to unwanted visitors. You can use this product as a standalone shaker or to refill The Big Cheese Granule Applicator. ✓ Natural pet-safe ingredients. ✓ Targets urine spraying, fouling and digging. ✓ Treats up to 250m² ✓ Suitable for patios, lawns, gravel and soil. ✕ Requires regular application. ✕ Not weatherproof. Best Gel Crystals ⭐⭐⭐ Get Off Cat and Dog Repellent Gel Crystals Get Off Gel Crystals slowly release a strong odour that works in the same manner as granules by interrupting a cat's sense of smell. Over time, they'll be trained to move away from treated areas to those where they can detect evidence of previous scent marking. The ultra-absorbent crystals soak up urine to help remove any lingering traces. The crystals are suitable for use on patios, lawns and gravel; as well as creating a barrier effect for decking, fences, flowerbeds and other perimeters. They're for outdoor use only and, unlike similar products, the pet-safe formula doesn't contain garlic, which can be toxic to cats. Usage As with other deterrent methods, ensure the area is clean and any previous fouling has been removed. Scatter crystals evenly and reapply every 2-3 days as necessary. Due to the gel formula, they're less likely to get blown away than granules. One pack treats up to 72m². Gel crystals are not recommended for applying directly onto flowerbeds due to causing discolouration, and I'm certain you wouldn't want it affecting your vegetables either! Customer Reviews Get Off Gel Crystals are described as having a potent smell, but it's not always enough to deter cats from problem areas. Like other products, there's also the issue of being dissolved by rain, which may not give products a chance to work properly. Users see most effect when targeting small areas where cats tend to pee or poop. Since crystals are larger than granules, there are less of them for scattering. In some cases, one pack is said to have lasted just a few days. Once cats start to visit the area less frequently, you can reduce the amount of crystals used. Conclusion Whether you opt for crystals or granules will largely depend on your preference and target area. These may not make your garden look or smell pleasant, but that's the purpose of a repellent! You can apply Get Off Gel Crystals to multiple areas, but it may get expensive for larger gardens and lawns. ✓ Natural pet-safe formula. ✓ Soaks up urine. ✓ Targets urine spraying and fouling. ✓ Creates a protective barrier. ✕ Treats a small area. ✕ Requires regular reapplication. ✕ Not suitable for plants or flowerbeds. Best Jet Spray ⭐⭐⭐ PestBye Jet Spray Cat Repellent Not too dissimilar to ultrasonic devices, PestBye Jet Spray Repellent works on a motion sensor to fire a gentle burst of water when triggered by offending animals. Though seemingly cruel upon first impression, as I'm not an advocate of spraying cats myself, this acts as more of a deterrent. The idea being that after one or two sprays, cats will start to avoid the area in a natural learning process. With an adjustable spreading width and sensitivity settings, you don't have to worry about it affecting other pets you might have, such as rabbits or guinea pigs. The immediate burst of water will prevent cats from having a chance to start digging or fouling. Usage PestBye Jet Spray is stake mounted, which is only good for lawns and soiled areas. It requires connection to a garden hose and consumes 2-3 cups of water per activation. This is a small amount and won't cause any harm to animals. The jet spray has a range of up to 10 metres, depending on settings and water pressure; with a spreading width of 120°. You can adjust the jet height and motion sensitivity as desired. The device is powered by 4 AA batteries that last for approximately 3-4 months of continuous use. Visit Customer Reviews Customers describe PestBye Jet Spray as being a highly-functional and effective deterrent for intruding cats and foxes that works immediately, but the mount must be tightly secured into the ground to prevent toppling. Other downsides include water leakage and having to dodge a squirt if you accidentally walk past the motion sensor. This can be avoided by disconnecting the hose if you're spending time in the garden. Conclusion Jet sprays are undoubtedly the best cat deterrent for lawns, with the minor inconveniences of being permanently attached to a hose and water consumption for the eco-warriors. A slightly more expensive option, this is a long-term investment for preventing the destruction of flowerbeds, plants and vegetable patches. It can also be set up around ponds to protect aquatic life from cats, birds and other wildlife - with no dangerous chemicals or smells. Ensure the unit is drained during winter months to prevent freezing and potentially damaging the unit. ✓ Adjustable height and motion sensitivity. ✓ Effective on cats, foxes and other animals. ✓ Covers a large area. ✓ Long-term solution. ✕ Needs to be attached to a hose. ✕ Lawn mounting only. ✕ Requires batteries. Best Scarers ⭐⭐⭐ DIVCHI 3 Pack of Cat Scarers These cat scarers with reflective glass eyes are designed to mimic a cat, sort of like a feline scarecrow to repel other cats, birds, squirrels and foxes. Made from powder-coated metal means they're durable, rust resistant and can potentially last for years; although the most attractive quality has to be the stylish design. With no need for batteries, replacements or reapplications - such as with sprays or granules - cat scarers have the simplest of set ups and can be left in the garden all year around. Usage DIVCHI Cat Scarers can be mounted in lawns with stakes or hung to fences, sheds and branches with the provided hooks. I'd recommend using scarers as a preventative measure by arranging them around flowerbeds, plants and patios - or lining the top of fence panels to physically block off intruding parties. This can be done by nailing through the holes used for stakes. The scarers come in a pack of three to cover multiple zones of your garden. Customer Reviews Cat scarers are a safe and non-invasive cat repellent with a fair rating for what they are. They can be installed in a range of different areas, so usage is less limited than other methods. Effectiveness largely depends on the animal, as some cats are more timid than others. In comparison to other deterrents, it's more likely that once cats have approached the scarer, they learn that there are no repercussions for doing so. Most users find the reflective eyes to be more of a deterrent than the silhouettes. Conclusion The DIVCHI Cat Scarers are fairly inexpensive, with a decent rating for what are essentially garden statues. However, you may need a lot of them to cover larger areas. If they don't scare away furry intruders then, at the very least, they make a cute piece of decor! ✓ Non-invasive. ✓ Can be hung or mounted. ✓ Weatherproof. ✓ Stylish design. ✕ Not as effective as other methods. Best Anti-Cat Mat ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Kyrieval Spiked Mat Deterrent These spiked mats look scary at first glance but are perfectly safe and will cause no harm to animals. Made from flexible plastic, this prickle strip is designed to irritate paws to deter from digging, scratching or approaching the area you want to protect. It's unlikely that cats will attempt to navigate or cross over a mat, thus choosing somewhere more convenient to pee or poop. The Kyrieval Spiked Mat is durable and flexible and can be applied to a range of surfaces, including trees to prevent animals from climbing. It's suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Usage The scat mat is simply applied over the desired area and fixed in place with the provided pegs, making it ideal for protecting plants, flowerbeds, vegetable patches, lawn perimeters and anywhere you want to prevent cats from hanging out. The prickle strip comes in a continuous 2-metre roll that can be cut into different lengths or sizes according to requirements, making it more convenient than small individual sheets. It can also be laid on hard surfaces in front of doors and gates by weighing down the ends with bricks or stones. For protecting fences, the Prikkastrip Eco Fence Wall Spikes can be affixed to the top of fence panels as a further deterrent, while staying in compliance with anti-climb security laws to prevent injury or pain to animals (and humans - but that's another topic!). Customer Reviews The Kyrieval Spiked Mat has an impressive rating with the potential to be an effective multifunctional product. It's commonly used to prevent cats and squirrels from digging in plant pots and soiled areas. The mat is reported to be easy to install, without being swept away by windy conditions. Conclusion While prickle mats can be used in a variety of situations, they're also a pricier option as you're paying per roll. If you have a large garden then it could soon add up; but once they're in place, there's no need for maintenance. To save money, use in combination with other deterrents or limit to those hard-to-reach places. ✓ Can be placed anywhere in the garden. ✓ Suitable for soil, flowerpots and planters. ✓ Prevents digging and scratching. ✓ Cuts to size. ✕ Covers a small area. ✕ Can get expensive. Shop pet supplies → Summary Use this quick comparison guide to round up the most important points of each cat deterrent and find a solution that works best for you (and your garden!). Urine repellent sprays: A cheap, quick-fix solution for hard surfaces such as patios, yards and doors. Requires regular application. Scatter crystals/granules: Value for money and a long-lasting solution for soil and gravel. Similar to sprays, these are easily washed away. Ultrasonic devices: Safe and effective with various settings to target different animals. Needs to be mounted or hung. Jet sprays: Highly effective and best for larger gardens or lawns. Needs to be attached to a hose and you may get splattered! Cat scarers: More for show and less effective than other products, but a great physical blockade for fences or flowerbeds. Prickle mats: Best used for blocking off small areas including plants or flowerbeds, fences and gates. Could be costly for larger gardens. Information accurate from August 2026 and may be subject to change. Have you tried any of these outdoor cat deterrents with any luck? Do you think something missed the list? Let us know in the comments if you have any recommendations of your own.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own. I am not being paid to promote any of the products mentioned in this article. Pet Remedy was founded in 2000 as a new way of tackling stress and anxiety in pets. Products are made and developed in England, UK, and exported to 21 countries worldwide. Pet Remedy is available to buy in Pets at Home and other pet store chains; and online from Amazon, eBay or direct from the brand's website. It's stocked by thousands of veterinary practices and rescue organisations, which is a testament to the quality and effectiveness of their range. Pet Remedy is available as a plug diffuser, calming spray, wipes and battery atomiser. At a Glance Go to review ⇨ Best for Long-Term Use Calming Plug-In Diffuser ✓ Slowly releases essential oils. ✓ Lasts up to 60 days. ✓ Covers 60m². Go to review ⇨ Best for Small Areas Battery-Operated Atomiser ✓ Works on a timer with 3 modes. ✓ Lasts up to 8 weeks. ✓ Portable. Go to review ⇨ Best for Stressful Events Calming Spray ✓ 200ml bottle. ✓ Lasts for 2-6 hours. ✓ Can help pets to bond. Go to review ⇨ Best for Travelling Calming Wipes ✓ Use on carriers and other surfaces. ✓ Eco-friendly and biodegradable. ✓ Portable. What Is Pet Remedy? Pet Remedy is clinically proven to work with pets' natural calming systems by mimicking GABA, a natural calming agent present in all mammals, birds and reptiles. When a pet becomes anxious or stressed, the active ingredients in Pet Remedy help to trick fired-up nerve cells into thinking they're getting a message from the brain to calm down. The effects are immediate and, unlike feline pheromone products, they can be used on other pets and animals. Benefits include: Helping animals to feel safe in unpredictable situations and environments. Making animals more aware of their surroundings and receptive to owners so you can focus on calming their behaviour, which makes it ideal for training. Aiding decision making and emotional resilience to cope with stressful events. Improving social connections with other animals. Usage: Travelling and carriers. Vet visits. Separation anxiety. Fireworks and other loud noises. Introducing new pets. Moving house. Training. Bonding. Remember, Pet Remedy is only a support mechanism that helps to calm excited nerves. It won't eliminate underlying or external issues, and there's still a matter of learnt and reactive behaviours to deal with. Visit Ingredients Products contain a low concentration of valerian, vetiver, basil and clary sage essential oils, which are safe for cats. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a herb that's renowned for its calming and relaxing effects. People have been using valerian root for centuries to reduce feelings of nervousness, tension and to improve sleep. This means that a lot of formulas are too potent for cats and can sedate rather than calm. Pet Remedy sources their oil from Europe, where their valerian plants are grown organically using pig manure as fertiliser. Diffusers deliver a slow, constant release which is gentle on a cat's metabolism, while sprays and wipes are pH neutral and water based. Pet Remedy and other cat-calming products should not be used in place of veterinary treatment. You should always take your pet for a health check-up to rule out illness or disease. Best for Long-Term Use Pet Remedy Calming Plug-In Diffuser Diffusers should be plugged in where cats spend most of their time so the calming solution can slowly release into the surrounding area. Key points: Easy to use. Covers up to 60m² (large room). Only 5 watts - cheap to run. Lasts up to 60 days. Refill bottles available. Review Having used this diffuser for a couple of months when tackling aggression between sibling cats - along with several other brands - it's worth noting that Pet Remedy shouldn't be confused with or compared to a pheromone-based diffuser. While both can be used in similar situations as a safe and effective way to reduce stress, they function in different ways and you should choose the product that's most suitable for your cats. Chances are, you won't know what works until you try - and that means giving products enough time to see the full effects. In my experience, Pet Remedy is most likely to benefit nervous or excitable cats; and during periods of increased stress (fireworks, travelling, etc). It's reported to be great for reducing fear and associated behaviours, including hiding and excessive crying. If your kitty is exhibiting problem behaviours on a regular basis, such as urine spraying or using your sofa as a scratch post, it may respond better to pheromones. These mimic the chemicals that cats naturally release to make themselves feel safe and secure within their environment, so there should be less need for territory marking or fighting. This is ONLY a guideline as each cat will respond differently - or in some cases, not at all. Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) That being said, Pet Remedy diffuser did seem to promote relaxation when placed in the cats' sleeping areas. It didn't stop the fighting and I can't say that I noticed a difference in aggression levels, generally speaking. I'd usually confine the boys to separate rooms after a physical fight, each with a diffuser to help them calm down. Overall, I can live without Pet Remedy, but having a pheromone diffuser has played a crucial role in reducing tension and conflict. Other people claim that Pet Remedy helps in multi-cat homes (where aggression isn't present) simply by creating a more harmonious environment. Customer feedback is positive in regards to value for money with diffusers lasting up to two months, while opinions are mixed on effectiveness. The most negative point seems to be the smell, but this should be expected with essential oils. While there definitely is an earthy, herbal kind of aroma, it's only around the diffuser itself and by no means unpleasant. I happened to find it rather soothing, even if some cats don't! For locations where a plug socket isn't available, you might find the Pet Remedy Atomiser more suitable. Operated by 3x AA batteries, it delivers a metered dose every 30, 60 or 120 minutes. It's suitable for a small 10m² room, which is much less than the diffuser and at a significantly higher cost. A 250ml bottle lasts up to 8 weeks and refills are available. Best for Stressful Events Pet Remedy Calming Spray The calming spray is great for travel and in the home. Just a couple of squirts is all you need for bedding, cat trees, problem areas (where cats scratch or urinate) and carriers prior to a vet visit. You should avoid spraying directly onto pets so they don't associate the spray with stressful situations. It can be used to aid bonding between cats by spraying a little onto your fingers and gently rubbing around muzzles, under the chin and top of the chest. This helps with scent swapping as well as calming. You can also spray onto harnesses or leads when walking an anxious cat or dog. Key points: Starts to help instantly. Easy to use trigger spray with generous 200ml. Lasts for 2-6 hours depending on the individual pet. Water-based, pH-neutral formula is safe on pets' skin and coat. Can be used in conjunction with plug diffuser. Review I'll be honest and say I'm never without a Pet Remedy spray, even if I don't use it too often. The convenience over a diffuser wins it for me and, as mentioned, most of my plug sockets are taken up by pheromone diffusers. My boys are incredibly skittish and have been known to get hissy with each other, so I'll spritz some Pet Remedy around for an extra level of calm. The most use it's had is during fireworks, and there's a noticeable difference to how quickly they get over the trauma. Simba actually sleeps through the quieter ones! The 200ml bottle is larger than other calming sprays on the market and you don't need much to see the effects. Which will be a relief for some because, yes, it does come with the classic Pet Remedy aroma. It's more pungent than the diffuser when first sprayed, but if it does what it's supposed to then the smell is a small price to pay for happy cats. Customers claim the product works well in conjunction with the Pet Remedy diffuser and is very effective for travelling, settling pets and generally making stressful situations more bearable. For more recommendations, check out these 6 Best Cat Calming Sprays Best for Travelling Pet Remedy Calming Wipes Wipes are an alternative to Pet Remedy Calming Spray and can be used in the same manner by wiping over bedding, carriers, harnesses; or tying to a basket when travelling. They're also good for use in veterinary clinics and grooming parlours to wipe down surfaces. The main advantage over a spray is that you can rub wipes over your hands before handling a nervous animal, and there's less risk of spooking it than with a spray trigger. Key points: Single use. Eco friendly. Made of viscose and 100% compostable and biodegradable. Review Admittedly, I didn't go out of my way to purchase these calming wipes but got a couple of freebies with the plug diffuser. The individual sachets are handy for carrying around and keep wipes moist for longer than a large pack. As far as wipes go, they're a decent thickness and seemed to do everything the spray does - apart from sending my two wimplings running from the room, which is a bonus. Customers appreciate the portable option and say the wipes are ideal for keeping in cars for travelling and walking pets. Pet Remedy Calming Kits Other Pet Remedy offerings include a range of grooming products; massage brush; heat pad; bandanas and calming kits for different situations. Kits are great value for money and come highly recommended. Party Season Survival Kit Keep your pet calm and relaxed during party seasons including Bonfire Night, New Year and other noisy celebrations. Includes: 1 x Plug Diffuser 1 x 15ml Calming Spray 3 x Calming Wipes Extra Value 120 Day Starter Pack This kit contains everything you need to get started and is best value for money. Perfect for settling pets into new homes or environments; stressful situations and anxiety-related behaviours. Includes: 1 x Plug Diffuser with 2 refills. 1 x 75ml Calming Spray 12 x Calming Wipes Calming Kit Another great pack ideal for travelling with pets or testing out products. Includes: 1 x Plug Diffuser 1 x 200ml Calming Spray 1 x Mini Calming Spray 12 x Calming Wipes When it comes down to it, choosing the best Pet Remedy product will depend on a combination of factors including behaviour, situation and circumstances. If you're still unsure then purchasing a kit will give you some options as well as saving a few quid! Information accurate from May 2026 and may be subject to change. Have you tried Pet Remedy? Which product worked best for your cats? Share your experiences in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. How to Stop Cats Fighting: Vets Stress Territory Food and Water More Litter Trays Bedding Toys Safe Places Outdoors Also in this article: What to Do If Your Cats Have Been in a Fight More How Can I Tell If Cats Are Fighting or Playing? Products That Reduce Aggression in Cats Summary Managing feline aggression can be a complex process, especially where cat-to-cat aggression is present as it involves not one, but two (sometimes more) separate parties. In order to stop cats from fighting or attacking other cats, we have to find out why they're attacking in the first place. Understanding the type of aggression being displayed and possible causes goes a long way in developing a strategy for dealing with inter-cat aggression. Vets As with any abnormal behaviour, the first step should be getting your cats checked over by a registered vet. Treatment for any underlying conditions or diseases should be started as soon as possible, and you can talk to your vet about medications for anxiety. This may help to calm your cat in conjunction with behavioural training and environmental modifications. Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress If aggression is hormonal, such as females in heat or unneutered males, then it's especially important to discuss the option of having cats desexed. Stress If health is generally good then we have to start looking for an external stressor, as cats are more likely to be aggressive under challenging circumstances. Once that stressor is removed, you can work on rebuilding the relationship between your fur babies. While it's not always possible to stop aggression towards other cats, animals or people, controlling it in a safe and appropriate manner can be achieved by paying special attention to a cat's environment - in other words, their territory. ​ YuMOVE Calming Care contains natural ingredients to help reduce stress, anxiety and support calm behaviour. Easy opening capsules so powder can be sprinkled over food. ​To avoid fuelling the fire, never punish or yell at your cats. Fighting is scary enough without adding a fear of humans, and remember what we said about redirected aggression: that fear will most likely be projected onto the other cat, creating more negative associations. Cats are habitual creatures that learn through reward and repetition, not discipline. Keeping them calm and stress-free (as much as possible) is half of the battle. Related post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment Territory ​ When cats start fighting, regardless of the cause, just helping them to stay out of each other’s way can reduce the risk of explosive encounters. Territorial battles can happen for any number of reasons, from cats reaching sexual maturity to changes in the home or redirected aggression. Something as simple as moving furniture around or a new pet are potential triggers for territorial disputes. Cats will often take their frustration out on the nearest thing, especially other housemates as they're a natural target. This may also be the case for anxiety or fear-based reactions, such as one kitty getting spooked by a loud noise or seeing a stray cat outside. To prevent it from turning into a long-term issue, it’s crucial that cats aren’t competing for important resources. Related post: 11 Essential Tips Every New Cat Owner Should Know Food and Water Offer multiple food and water stations around the home, or if cats have specified mealtimes then try feeding them on opposite sides of a room. Bowls should be positioned so that neither cat has to turn its back on a potential assailant. Also notice if one cat blocks access to food bowls and, if necessary, feed separately to prevent territorial behaviour from escalating. Adding more food stations gives cats the opportunity to go elsewhere, eliminating competition. They should always have free access to water, and you can make drinking more exciting with pet fountains in various designs. Fountains are also a great distraction! FEELNEEDY Wireless Cat Water Fountain is a large-capacity, stainless steel fountain that can be placed anywhere in the home. It has a multi-layer filtration system and three flow modes: sensor, timer and continuous. It's common for cats to squabble over food and/or hunger because it's such a basic survival instinct. How irritable do you get once your stomach starts rumbling, and how many times have you taken that out on other people by being short-tempered and snappy? This is even more the case with our pets, having to rely on someone else to feed them. Scheduled meals satisfies a cat's need for routine so they always know when they're going to be fed, which can go a long way in reducing anxiety. Automatic feeders may be useful, as they work on a timer to make sure cats have set mealtimes even when you're away from home. If necessary, split meals into smaller "snacks" that you can feed more frequently without overfeeding. Lastly, you should evaluate what you're actually feeding your cat. A species-appropriate, nutritionally-balanced diet made from quality ingredients should never be overlooked. The old saying "healthy body, healthy mind" applies to animals as well as humans. Related post: The Truth About Commercial Cat Food: What Really Goes into Your Pet's Food? Litter Trays The general rule for litter trays is one per cat, plus one extra. Lidded or hooded trays are not recommended in multi-cat homes as it can cause territorial disputes around the entrance, although cats of a nervous disposition might find the privacy more comfortable. Stainless steel trays have a few advantages over plastic ones: they're longer lasting, easier to clean and don't trap nasty odours. Cats should have enough space to turn around without being squashed or restricted, and you could try changing the type or brand of litter to one your kitty prefers. Toileting outside the litterbox can also be a sign of stress, anxiety, UTIs and other conditions. ​ Stainless Steel Litter Box has a smooth surface that prevents litter from sticking to the bottom and doesn't absorb smells. High anti-splash sides help to contain litter and are easily removed for cleaning. It may seem extensive but there were times during Drax’s bullying, usually in the early hours of the morning when no one was around to supervise, that he’d trap Simba in the living room. Unable to reach a tray, Simba was forced to pee on the floor. Not only does this create further distress, but holding in urine can cause cystitis and other urinary problems. If your kitty is too scared to go to the toilet, it's not just your floors that will suffer. Lastly, make sure litter trays are kept clean and remove any mess as soon as possible, especially where territorial aggression is being displayed. Smelling another cat's pheromone-loaded pee all over the house is likely to piss it off even more (pardon the pun). I strongly believe this played a role in managing my own cats' behaviour after we had a problem with stray cats urine spraying outside. Related post: What Are Cat Pheromones and How Do They Work? Bedding Each cat should have its own sleeping area, whether it’s a basket, shelf, cat tree or whatever your furries prefer. A territorial cat may try to drive others away by jumping or pouncing on them while they're asleep - so the higher, the better. FEANDREA Cat Tree Tower comes in a choice of sizes and colours, providing plenty of space with thirteen scratch posts; two perches; two caves; a basket and hammock. If you have a dominant kitty that loves to steal everyone’s beds, by giving them options you’re (hopefully) eliminating the problem. Cats love variety, so stay one step ahead by providing more than they need! We should address the importance of a cat's sleep, as it's not just a time for rest but crucial for conserving energy. In the wild, cats must stay alert to potential threats and hunting opportunities. They're known for their short naps - hence the term "cat nap" - throughout the day due to their crepuscular nature. This means they're most active before sunrise and sunset, as their usual prey is small rodents and birds that emerge in low-light conditions, for which cats have excellent vision. Creating a safe and comfortable environment helps to improve a cat's sleep quality, behavioural health and general wellbeing. Related post: 10 Best Types of Cat Beds Toys Contrary to their reputation for laziness and sleeping for 16 hours a day, cats are known for their short bursts of energy or "zoomies" as they're sometimes referred to. As mentioned above, these energy reserves are used for hunting and being on alert for potential danger. When you consider the average cat toy: feathers, mice, teasers and things with moving parts, they're all designed to stimulate a cat's predatory instincts. Therefore, it's not surprising that cats are amongst the most playful pets you can own. Play is a form of exercise and an essential part of health and wellbeing, just like humans. Even ten minutes a day can make all the difference, especially for indoor cats that require additional stimulation. Depending on the nature and personality of your cat, some are like a can of beans waiting to explode! Visit The more energy that's burned off during play, the better. This means that cats will be too exhausted to fight and need to recharge their kitty batteries for the next hunt. It also helps to take the focus away from other cats, particularly victims of bullying. Offering plenty of toys in different areas or rooms of the home is an essential part of managing aggression. Related post: DIY Cat Toys That Are Cheap and Easy to Make: Step-by-Step Guides If you're worried about cats fighting when you're away from home and don't want to separate them, interactive or battery-operated toys can be left for cats to entertain themselves at their own leisure. YVE LIFE Motion Activated Cat Laser Toy has 3 speeds and a range of movement patterns - no more boring circles! Laser has a working distance of around 4 metres and is USB rechargeable. Remember to pay particular attention to common fighting or ambush zones such as doorways and corridors. I've found scratch mats and posts to be one of the best distractions, as cats scratch to communicate their territorial rights by using the scent glands in their paws. They'll often do this in the presence of other cats, so it allows them to flex their dominance without engaging or attacking. Lastly, if your home allows for it, offer a designated window area where cats can observe the outdoors. Bird feeders are great for attracting wildlife for a realistic cinema experience! Related post: Cat Enrichment Ideas and Boredom Breakers for Indoor Cats Safe Places Offering a private space for any victim cats can help to reduce stress and boost confidence: a quiet room or area where they can’t be disturbed, huts or boxes to hide in and cat trees for height advantage. Our furry friends naturally enjoy the option of different levels, and having that all-important vantage point offers safety from predators. Enclosed spaces can be problematic in some instances, as restricting a cat's vision makes them vulnerable to oncoming predators. I discovered this when Simba used to hide in the wardrobe and hiss whenever Drax peered through the door. It also gives bullies the perfect opportunity to block entrances, so they should be kept away from hiding places. Fighting is more likely to occur if there aren't enough escape routes and avoidance opportunities, especially where bullying is concerned. Simba would climb any shelf or stand he could get to in order to avoid Drax’s attacks. There are plenty of options available, from free-standing to wall-mounted and even window hammocks. Ramps may be beneficial in narrow corridors, not forgetting those strategically placed scratch posts. PawHut Cat Stand with a round bed covered in plush fabric and sturdy base to prevent toppling. Includes a jute scratching post and hanging pompom. Two dominant cats may be harder to manage, as both will resort to aggression quicker than if one is a submissive Simba. Adding more territory to claim keeps them out of each other's ways, and it was honestly one of the best things I did for my cats. Whether you live in a one-bedroom apartment or three-storey mansion, turning your home into a cat playground can be quick, easy and relatively inexpensive. Related post: Small Cat Tree Stands and Towers for All Cats (Tried and Tested) If investing in cat trees, it's worth choosing one that's tall or has a single perch to prevent bullies from trying to encroach on another cat's territory, thus limiting climbing opportunities. Trees with condos are great for saving space, but remember to observe your bully in case it uses huts as blocking and staring opportunities. Shop Pet Furniture → The main benefits of adding more resources to the home are to limit feelings of competition, avoid unpleasant encounters; provide comfort and make your cats happier overall. A possessive kitty can't guard every food bowl, bed and litter tray at the same time! A stimulating environment with plenty of scratch posts, toys and climbing areas will create a distraction from other “target” cats so they can channel their energy into something positive and fun. Related post: Top 10 Products I Used to Help Reintroduce Fighting Cats Outdoors If cats are free to roam outside then aggression is less easily contained and can spread beyond the boundaries of the home. Using a harness is great for control and exercise but requires more supervision, which isn’t always convenient. It may be wise to let cats out at different times or prevent them from leaving the garden so they can't bump into strays. If your cats are fighting with a neighbour's cat then it's entirely possible that they're bringing that aggression back to the home. Related post: The 8 Best Cat Deterrents for Gardens and Yards PEFUNY Window Hammock features powerful suction cups and a stainless steel frame that can hold a weight of up to 18kg. Double-sided fabric makes it suitable for all seasons and it can be folded up when not in use. A more costly option involves building or installing a catio (cat-patio). This is an enclosure leading from a door or window, usually constructed from a wooden frame and wire mesh. Think of it as a mini conservatory where cats can hang out and bask in the fresh air without the risk of escape. You could also have a self-contained enclosure if free access to the house isn't possible. Omlet has some innovative designs for various outdoor spaces. In cases of severe aggression, you might consider treating them as indoor cats while the issue is being dealt with; or permanently if it persists. Catios are great for preventing fights between neighbourhood cats. Another danger of letting cats outdoors, particularly in cases of territorial or redirected aggression, is that picking up the scents of strays and intruders might exacerbate the situation. Even the whiff of coming face to face through a cat flap is enough to alert a sensitive kitty. In my own experience, it was highly likely that a cat had urine sprayed in the yard and people had unknowingly trodden it into the house. Rest assured that if another cat has peed on your doorstep, any resident kitties will know about it! What to Do If Your Cats Have Been in a Fight As mentioned above, if cats have engaged in a physical fight - whether with a housemate or a stray - then confine them indoors to prevent further encounters and so you can monitor their behaviour. Keep offending cats separated until there's no visible tension, and don't try to soothe them in the first instance as it can take some time for adrenaline to leave the system. Both of my cats have hissed at me after a fight, so it's best to leave well alone and wait for them to approach you. If cats are showing signs of aggression such as hissing and growling, you can place a piece of cardboard or a cushion between them to block off eye contact; or try distracting with a toy. Never use hands to separate cats, especially during a full-contact fight. A long-handled object such as a broom will prevent injury to both cats and humans, or throw a blanket over them before handling. The most important thing is to remain as calm as possible. You'll also need to check for injuries: superficial cuts and bleeding is more easily spotted than bites, as a cat's fangs puncture the skin to create narrow holes that close up quickly and may not be noticeable through their thick fur. This can trap bacteria and cause infections or abscesses that worsen over time. Most wounds generally heal without treatment and cats return to their normal selves, but if they appear withdrawn, limp or quieter than usual then you should consult a vet immediately. Keep claws trimmed to minimise injury to other cats. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting How Can I Tell If Cats Are Fighting or Playing? Not all cats enjoy play fighting, especially with a dominant kitty that they'd rather stay clear of; but if they do engage in a good ol' wrestling match then there's no need to break it up. In fact, this is great for bonding and helps cats to burn off energy without you having to lift a finger - or toy, in this case. It's normal for cats to chase, pounce, roll and bat each other around. You might see them biting each other's necks while wrestling but this isn't an attempt to maim. If cats wanted to injure each other then they would, and you'd know about it from the screams of the victim. This is a scary notion, but spotting the differences between play and aggression is simple once you know how. Play fighting is usually silent, although you might hear the odd hiss or cry if it gets rough, but cats will return to normal with no lingering tension afterwards. Occasionally, an overexcited kitty may not take the hint and continue the play session regardless. To prevent the situation from escalating, distract it with a toy and separate if necessary. Pet Remedy Calming Diffuser contains a low concentration of valerian and essential oils to work with a cat's natural calming mechanisms when tackling stress and anxiety. Ideal for most pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents and birds. Products That Reduce Aggression in Cats In addition to environmental modifications, there are many helpful products on the market that claim to reduce aggression. This is usually achieved by targeting anxiety or stress-related behaviours: scratching, urine spraying, overgrooming and hiding amongst others. Even if anxiety isn’t the cause of fighting in multi-cat households, it can certainly be a result. The most common products include plug-in diffusers that release essential oils or pheromones (such as Feliway); calming sprays, collars and herbal treats. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always solve the problem and additional steps must be taken. The most common and recommended method is the separation and reintroduction process. Summary Get cats checked over by a vet to rule out any medical issues or conditions. Identify and remove potential stressors. Ensure plenty of resources to eliminate competition (food stations, litter trays, bedding, etc). Add more territory to help cats stay out of each other's ways. Offer plenty of toys and playtime to burn off excess energy. Keep cats indoors if possible. The road to solving aggression can be a long one, and as any advice will tell you, early intervention is more likely to result in a successful outcome. One of the most common issues parents face is fighting in multi-cat households, particularly aggression between indoor cats. Even if it takes months before your fur babies can share a space together, going through the correct procedures can prevent more aggression from building up over time. Related post: Are Your Cats Fighting? Top 5 Tips Based on Real Experiences Cats may lose their bonds, be it temporarily or permanently, and the ultimate decision as to whether they can live in harmony is down to them. All we can do is aid the process, which will be much harder if they’ve built up an ingrained hatred for one other. Happy cats need a happy home, and it starts by creating a cat-friendly environment. Check out this post for more tips and advice: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Mentioned Products FEANDREA Large Cat Tree Amazon Basics Cat Scratching Post FELIWAY Optimum Cat Calming Plug-In Do you have your own experiences with inter-cat aggression? Let us know in the comments if this article helped or share any hints and tips of your own.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. 5 Tips for Fighting Cats: Litter Tray Hygiene Territory and Space Introducing Cats Contacting a Professional The New Normal When your bonded cats start fighting, it's usually proceeded by a storm of human emotions and I've experienced them all: confusion, shock, panic, stress, horror, dismay, heartache - and don't get me started on the insomnia! To sum it up, I can say that I was well and truly devastated by the ordeal, and I know it's something that only other cat parents will relate to. I originally started this blog to document my experience, as hinted in the title. It quickly became a resource for anyone wanting to understand inter-cat aggression, why it happens and how to manage it. I've included below some of my most popular articles for reference, and if you've already read them, the tips I'm about to share will sound very familiar. It's nothing I haven't said before in one roundabout way or another, but I want to summarise a few important - and often underrated - points. The focus here is on cats that were previously bonded, but you can apply it to almost any situation. Recommended reading: Aggressive Behaviour in Cats: 8 Types and Causes Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats How to Reintroduce Cats After a Fight in 6 Steps Litter Tray Hygiene I know, you've heard it all before but stay with me.... Maintaining litterbox hygiene is always important, even more so where aggression is present. A lot of parents are quick to defend themselves with comments like: "I scoop every day!" or "My cats don't have any problems with the litter tray." Well, neither did mine. Just because your cats aren't fighting over or around toilet areas doesn't mean it's not causing a problem - and it has little to do with scooping. Shop Pet Supplements → Scooping alone is not sufficient to keep a litter tray clean; you should be doing a full wash and litter change every 1-2 weeks. There's a reason some trays come with high "anti-splash" sides, and that's because pee has a tendency to splatter. I'm sure I don't have to point out too that cats are in no rush to wash their paws after toileting. This means that damp or soiled litter is trampled around the house, particularly if you have a longhair with big hairy paws (I'm looking at you, Drax!). Double Layer Cat Litter Mat collects loose litter for easy shaking into a bin. Made from flexible and comfortable EVA material with a waterproof bottom. Multiple sizes available. Not only is cat pee one of the toughest odours to remove, but cats will pick up on the pheromones in urine - and therein lies the problem. It was Simba that alerted me to this, as I noticed him sniffing around the floor pulling the famous "stink face" where a cat curls back its upper lip, essentially tasting scents. If you're not familiar with the flehmen response, performed when a cat detects another cat's pheromones, this post is essential reading: What Are Cat Pheromones and How Do They Work? How is this relevant to aggression? As any cat parent should know, urine has a very important role in territory marking. Therefore, if one cat can smell the other cat's pee stains around the house - even if it's residue from the litter tray itself - it can cause some serious misunderstandings and contribute to feelings of insecurity. To emphasise the importance of this, there was an instant improvement to my cats' behaviour after I disinfected the floors - notably Simba, who was the one being bullied. It wasn't a solution in itself, but he was 50% less scared and reactive to Drax. Doing this will also remove any foreign smells brought in from outside on human feet. In a way, I'm lucky that Simba is an obsessively sniffy cat or else it never would have occurred to me. And for the record, I couldn't see or smell a drop of pee prior to cleaning! Don't wait for your cats to show signs that the litter tray is causing a problem - get the marigolds out and start scrubbing with a pet-safe disinfectant like Fresh Pet Cleaner and Deodoriser. Worst-case scenario, there's no change in behaviour and you can rule it out as a contributing factor. Process of elimination is the best approach you can take with animals that can't simply tell you what's wrong. Note that the above doesn't apply to urine spraying, which is a separate issue. If your cat is deliberately toileting outside the litter tray, refer to this dedicated post: Why Do Cats Urine Spray in the House and How to Stop It? Territory and Space Let's be real, expecting cats that don't like or care for each other to share a household is a huge ask. How would you feel if you had a family member or housemate that enjoyed kicking your arse for no reason whatsoever? Also, in case I hadn't already mentioned it a hundred times, our feline friends are notoriously territorial creatures. The least you can do is provide enough space so they can avoid each other by way of climbing opportunities, shelves and resting spots. A couple of cat trees in your living room isn't going to cut it. Feandrea Large Cat Tree Tower provides height, space and enrichment. Stands at 206cm tall and features 5 levels including 2 perches, 2 condos, 1 hammock and 14 scratching zones. I've heard of cats using everything from the top of fridges to doorframes to escape an aggressive housemate - you'd be amazed at the places they can reach when desperation kicks in. Ideally, they should have a "safe place" to retreat to in every accessible room. In cramped living areas or flats, compact floor-to-ceiling cat trees and wall-mounted shelving make great use of vertical space. PELUOMOZ Cat Wall Furniture Set includes a bed, hammock, scratch post, shelf and bridge to provide your cat with a comprehensive sleeping, climbing, jumping and play area. Related post: Small Cat Tree Stands and Towers for All Cats (Tried and Tested) Shop Pet Furniture → If you're on a budget, you can adapt furniture that you already have: a chest of drawers, wardrobe or desk can all be made inviting with a basket or blanket. Even rearranging furniture by placing a chair or sofa in front of a window creates an engaging chill out zone where cats can observe the outdoors. The more time they spend climbing, exploring and crowning themselves king or queen of your wardrobe, the less chance there is of explosive encounters! If your cats are indoor only, an outside enclosure or catio provides extra space and stimulation to help prevent boredom. Boredom can lead to stress, which in turn contributes to aggressive behaviour. Omlet has some great options for gardens and balconies. Related post: Cat Enrichment Ideas and Boredom Breakers for Indoor Cats Introducing Cats I've spoken to at least one cat parent who, understandably, thought it'd be a good idea to get their older cat a new kitten to play with after it lost its companion. Most owners jump into a decision like this far too soon, since the existing cat has already experienced a huge change to its routine as it adjusts to life without its friend. Throwing another cat into the mix is a potential recipe for disaster, and there's every chance that your well-intentioned gesture will backfire. You'll never be able to replicate the bond that your cat had with its previous companion. There are exceptions to this rule for cats with the right personality or temperament, but you shouldn't consider it to be the norm. As was the case with my acquaintance, who quickly learned that their older cat was more interested in bullying the new kitten. Furthermore, the additional stress eventually led to the cat attacking its owners. Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone to help reduce stress-related behaviours; and the maternal appeasing pheromone to promote bonding and harmony in multi-cat households. Would the introduction have gone smoother if the cat hadn't been subjected to so many changes all at once? It's entirely possible, but we also have to question whether a young energetic kitten is the best choice of companion for an older cat. I've made this mistake more than once over the years, and it's never without some level of conflict. This is more of a forewarning for parents considering getting a new playmate for their existing cat, especially if it's following other major lifestyle changes: moving house, a new baby or any kind of upheaval. Cats are extremely change averse, and if you do make the decision to bring a new pet into the household, a gradual introduction will be much appreciated by any resident kitties! Related post: How I Successfully Reintroduced Cats After Fighting Contacting a Professional There's no one better suited to advise on behavioural problems than someone who specialises in the subject, and you don't need to wait until you've exhausted every other option. The sooner you take steps to resolve the issue, the better the chance of success. That can include doing your own research, even if it's following some of the advice and suggestions made here. Depending on your situation, you might be able to resolve things without intervention - in which case, congratulations! It is possible - I'm living proof - but it may be easier with some outside help. The reason I didn't consult a behaviourist was because having an unfamiliar person come into the house would have caused additional stress for my scaredy-cats. Additionally, having already completed numerous courses in feline behaviour, I didn't feel like I could learn anything new by working with someone remotely. The cost of hiring a specialist can soon add up, and you want to make sure that you're using someone who has experience with feline aggression. If it's within your budget then I consider it a worthy investment, if only for the peace of mind that you've done everything you possibly can for your cats. Had I been unable to solve the problem myself, it's something I'd have considered more seriously. YuMOVE Calming Care contains natural ingredients to help reduce stress, anxiety and support calm behaviour. Easy opening capsules so powder can be sprinkled over food. You may have to wait for an appointment with a behaviourist, so you can use that time to gather information and make a note of any questions you have. Some veterinary practices are able to make referrals, or you can search independently online. I recommend choosing someone local who can work hands-on with your cats and observe them in their natural environment. Although, having two wimpy cats of my own, I know this isn't always the best option! Most behaviourists will offer a phone or email consultation if it's more suitable. All animal behaviourists should have professional qualifications and be recognised by a professional body, such as the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC). The New Normal "I want my cats to go back to normal and be happy." Trust me, I get it. After several long months of Drax and Simba going back and forth between best friends and mortal enemies, I have nothing but empathy and understanding for parents going through the same thing. Which makes my final piece of advice so much harder.... There's every chance that your cats will return to a healthy relationship - or at the very least, learn to tolerate one another. In many cases, both my own and those of other parents that I've connected with, the fights will continue to erupt even after a successful reintroduction - albeit to a lesser degree. Note that this only applies to cats that are able to live together. If the aggression is constant or there are other signs of anxiety or depression, you should keep cats separated and consult a vet or behaviourist for advice. Pet Remedy Calming Spray provides a natural way of tackling stress and anxiety in cats, dogs and other small animals. It contains a blend of valerian and essential oils and can be sprayed on bedding, blankets and carriers prior to a vet visit. My boys have come a long way in the last two years and are as close to "normal" as I could hope for; however, it is a new version of normality. By this, I mean there's still (and likely always will be) a very small level of distrust on Simba's part. Miscommunications do happen on occasion, but it's something I've learned to manage through trial and error. It's a hard thing to accept and no one wants to hear it - in fact, it's likely worse for owners than it is for their cats! If this sounds familiar, it can simply mean that the dynamics of your cats' relationship has changed. Whether this is temporary or permanent will depend on your individual cats and circumstances. While I agree that it's upsetting to see bonded cats not getting along, even if it's the odd scrap, we have to remember that they are cats. They do not live by the laws of human logic and are not obliged to like each other 100% of the time. I used to have a neighbour with three indoor cats, and the more excitable male would torment the females to the point I could hear them screaming at each other through the walls. The next day, they'd all be hanging out together like nothing had happened! Wild cats lead predominantly solitary lives or within colonies as a means of survival - something our domestic moggies don't have to worry about. Therefore, it's highly unnatural for a cat to share its territory with a housemate (even if they've been together for years without issue). The fact that they can live in any amount of harmony is, again, a big ask - not least after aggression has occurred. A cat's survival instinct is some of the strongest in the animal kingdom. This instinct doesn't fade away simply because they're domesticated. In fact, for that switch to flip and completely change the personality of your cat, it should give you a good idea of how they're feeling internally. Almost all of the cat parents I've spoken to with experience of aggression claim that, much like Drax and Simba, their cats are naturally skittish, timid or shy. It does seem to be a common denominator, particularly with cases of redirected aggression - in simple terms, when cats are easily "spooked" by external factors. Visit Loud noises, sudden movements and frightening events are common triggers for cats turning on each other. Unfortunately, this hyper-vigilance can become more prevalent after an aggressive episode, since cats will remember the trauma of their previous confrontation and apply it to the new experience - i.e., the loud noise. A cat in fight-or-flight mode is often unable to think or react in a logical manner. Be vigilant, recognise the signs and act before you're forced to react. It's a good idea to have a separation plan in place, ensuring the set up of your home allows each cat to have its own space while they recover from their conflict. The sooner you can adapt to the "new normal", the easier everyone's lives will be. To help you through the process, check out some of my kitty calming aid reviews and recommendations: Best Cat Calming Plug-In Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) Calming Supplement Reviews: ZylKene and YuMOVE Calming Care for Cats (Tried and Tested) 6 Best Cat Calming Sprays 10 Best Cat Calming Treats and Pastes Mentioned Products Fresh Pet Cleaner and Deodoriser PELUOMOZ Cat Wall Furniture Set Are your kitties at war or have you had a similar experience? Let us know in the comments if this article helped, and feel free to share any tips of your own!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: Benefits of Keeping Cats Indoors Is It Cruel to Keep Indoor Cats? Do Indoor Cats Need Vaccinating? Best Cat Breeds for Indoor Living Age and Background Environment More Essential Resources Exercise and Play Outdoor Spaces Summary Benefits of Keeping Cats Indoors Keeping indoor cats is a huge topic of debate, and people are quick to judge without considering the reasons for doing so or the potential benefits. Everyone has an opinion, especially since the rise of social media made it so easy to hide behind a screen. If you search for advice from cat charities and shelters, you'll find that opinions are just as mixed. Some organisations, such as Blue Cross, don't rehome cats to homes where they must live indoors unless they have a health condition that prevents them from going outside; while others make decisions on a case-by-case basis. Cats Protection recommend keeping cats indoors if they're rehomed near to a main road, for example. There's no denying the benefits of letting cats experience the great outdoors, but it also comes with a lot of dangers. Here are some reasons why people might decide to keep their cats indoors: Avoiding traffic accidents - approximately 230,000 cats get hit by cars in the UK every year. This happened to my black and white cat, Barney - on my birthday, of all days - so I can understand other parents not wanting to go through the same trauma. Theft - it's estimated that around 360,000 cats go missing or are stolen annually in the UK. Where's Liam Neeson when you need him? Unplanned pregnancies - prevents cats, especially unneutered males, from roaming to find a mate and adding to the hundreds of millions of stray cats roaming the streets. Injury - removes the opportunity to bump into other cats and get into fights or bring aggression back to the home. Abuse - sadly, humans are one of a cat's largest threats with acts of cruelty such as physical violence, poison, traps and shooting in some countries. Disease - less chance of cats picking up contagious diseases and parasites. Another major advantage of keeping cats indoors, although not for the cats themselves, is to protect wildlife and endangered species. Again, some will agree with this and others would argue that it's in a cat's nature to hunt. Either way, we can't blame a cat for indulging in its natural instincts. Let's explore in further detail the life of an indoor cat and address some common concerns about how to keep them happy, healthy and encourage natural behaviours. Is It Cruel to Keep Indoor Cats? Do I agree with indoor cats? Yes, I have two of them myself! Isn't it cruel to lock them inside, away from their natural habitat where they have the freedom to hunt and explore? That depends on several factors. Indoor cats can and do live very fulfilling lives, but you should be willing to make a few changes to your home - and even your routine - to provide them with all the stimulation and enrichment they need. This is even more important if you don't have much space to work with, such as a one-bed apartment. That's not to say cats will suffer in these conditions, IF you follow the advice in this article. Cramming multiple cats into a tiny space without essential resources, going out to work all day and binge watching reality TV instead of scheduling playtime with your kitty is going to cause problems in the long-run. What's the point in owning a pet in the first place, if not for companionship? Resources extend way beyond food, water and litter trays - how would you like to live with nothing but the bare necessities of life? Sisal Scratcher Bed with foamboard padding and a toy ball. Natural sisal distracts cats from furniture and carpets so they can scratch, play and nap. I would never recommend keeping a cat indoors unless it's necessary or unavoidable, but there are many things you can do to find a healthy balance. Catios and other outdoor enclosures are a growing trend, as much as it pains me to use the word - we're not talking about fashion here! These will be discussed a little further on. There are some things to be mindful of with indoor cats, as they're more prone to conditions such as urinary tract disease, obesity, diabetes, hyperthyroidism and behavioural problems. These risks can be lowered by providing a cat-friendly environment and species-appropriate diet. Do Indoor Cats Need Vaccinating? Outside has a habit of getting inside, so regardless of where your cat hangs out, it's always vulnerable to germs and diseases. Vaccinations and boosters will help to prevent your kitty from picking anything up. For this reason, it's also important to stay on top of flea and worming treatments, especially as fleas can be transported on clothing or if you visit the homes of other feline-loving friends. In the event of a cat escaping, you should strongly consider getting them desexed. As well as preventing unplanned pregnancy, there are numerous health and behavioural benefits. UK laws also state that cat owners in England must get their cats microchipped. Wherever you live, any responsible owner who cares about the wellbeing of their cats would get them microchipped in case he or she goes missing. Related post: 11 Essential Tips Every New Cat Owner Should Know Petlicity Cat Massaging and Scratching Arch is made for self-grooming with soft plastic bristles to reduce matting and hairballs. The base has a compartment that can be filled with catnip. Best Cat Breeds for Indoor Living As an advocate for the "adopt don't shop" mantre, choosing cats for their breed over the thousands of unwanted and abandoned kitties needing a home doesn't sit well with me - and I'd say the same with any pet. Which raises another important point: cats that have been sentenced to life in a shelter are unlikely to experience the great outdoors either way. At least a home environment offers the love, care, attention and security that every cat deserves. I've been adopting for as long as I can remember but, as some cat breeds are better suited for indoor living, it's worth mentioning as a factor. British Shorthairs and Persians are known for their gentle, easy-going temperaments. The British Shorthair is extremely adaptable, probably due to its non-demanding nature, while being sociable at the same time. Other friendly breeds include Ragdolls, which as the name suggests, are known for their love of cuddles; and Russian Blues, although they can be shy around strangers - another reason why they might be content to live indoors. Xemz Interactive Feather Cat Toy features a rotating feather that randomly pops out of the holes at different time intervals. The toy starts when cats pass the infrared sensor and has an auto shut-off time of 5 minutes. Ragdolls, along with Scottish Folds and Sphynx cats, are highly affectionate and enjoy the company of humans. As Sphynx's are hairless, they also get a little chilly outdoors! The Devon Rex is not only sociable but low maintenance, too. Siamese cats are known for their intelligent and curious natures so are less likely to get bored, although they can be a tad demanding - especially when in competition with other cats. Cats that enjoy play and other interactions also make great indoor companions: Siamese, Scottish Fold, Sphynx and Devon Rex will love bonding time with their guardians. Visit A cat's nature when living alone may differ when placed with other felines, so you also need to consider how many cats you want to bring into the home; as well as any existing pets you have. The Bengal may look like something fresh out of a jungle - and will probably eat the family hamster - but it'll be eager to make buddies with other kitty playmates. While breed is a factor, every cat is unique with his or her own personality. If you plan on adopting more than one cat, it's best to choose sibling or bonded cats rather than an unfamiliar pair that might not get along. I recommend doing your own research and consulting with experienced breeders, shelters or your local vet before making a decision. Age and Background A cat's age can also affect indoor suitability: for example, senior cats will be less physically active and require less stimulation than a young cat or kitten. If adopting a senior cat, just giving it a warm and loving home can make all the difference in its final years. Kittens, on the other hand, are balloons of energy waiting to burst. It's essential that they have multiple ways of burning it off and an ability to explore their environment, even if that means running up and down the stairs or looking out of a window. They can also annoy older cats, which I've experienced myself many years ago. Cats who've previously lived outside with the freedom to explore may not cope well with confinement to an indoor space, which could lead to behavioural problems. When adopting a cat, be sure to ask about its history and background to check that it's a good match for your situation and lifestyle. Environment Space As humans, we know that environment matters. You only have to look at how much people spend on their homes, from large renovations to the finer details. Yes, I am talking about the overpopulation of scatter cushions and candles! We want our homes to be a place of zen, a safe space; somewhere we can relax at the end of the day. Cats aren't bothered about cushions and candles, but they do have their own requirements - and that includes privacy. Cats weren't built to be cooped up indoors, so the hustle and bustle of daily life can be highly stressful. Humans clomping up and down the stairs with their giant feet, doors slamming, pots and pans clanging in the kitchen, screaming kids.... If your cat spends a lot of time hiding then it probably needs quiet and solitude. Felines are prone to stress which can trigger anxiety, depression and behavioural issues such as aggression. It can also cause physical symptoms like stress-induced cystitis and loss of appetite, which can be life-threatening in animals. They're a lot smaller than us and once they stop eating, it becomes harder and harder to reverse damage to the body. Pheromone diffusers and sprays are a natural, drug-free way to reduce stress by making cats feel safe and relaxed in their environment. For more tips and advice on a holistic approach to kitty health, here's some essential reading: Holistic Cat Care: Natural Support for Feline Health and Wellbeing Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone to help reduce stress-related behaviours, and the maternal appeasing pheromone to promote bonding and harmony in multi-cat households. Natural Light Cats have crepuscular sleep cycles, which means they're most active at dawn and dusk. If you've ever wondered why your cat likes to run around in the early hours, this is optimal hunting time! While it may be annoying for parents, this natural routine can help with mood and behavioural problems. If cats become too disruptive during these hours, you can leave out an interactive toy for them to play with or set up an automatic feeder - less stress for kitty and more rest for you! Exposure to sunlight not only helps to regulate a cat's sleep cycle, but it's as rejuvenating for them as it is for humans. You can aid this by opening curtains, using natural light bulbs and opening windows for a fresh air flow. To prevent cats from escaping, use a pet-proof lock or screen. Cleaners and Fragrances The chemicals found in domestic cleaners can be harmful to a cat's health, including but not limited to: disinfectants, bleach, bathroom cleaners and stain removers. Any of these can irritate the eyes, skin and respiratory tract - or worse if substances are ingested. I recommend using pet-safe or natural cleaners and avoiding synthetic fragrances like air fresheners. So too, scented candles and diffusers that contain essential oils can leave residues on a cat's fur, which they might lick off while grooming. Cats have an incredible sense of smell, so any kind of fragrance is likely to be overpowering to their sensitive noses. Discover more household dangers in this detailed post: 8 Common Household Items That Are Dangerous or Toxic to Cats Essential Resources Bedding Cats enjoy cosying up and will choose their sleeping areas based on how safe they feel. Whether that's on the sofa amongst humans, at the top of a cat tree or the darkness of underbed spaces. It's unusual to find a sleeping cat in the middle of a floor unless they're exhausted from a play session or REALLY comfortable in their environment. Related post: 10 Best Types of Cat Beds A heavy sleep isn't the same as a cat nap, where you might see kitty sitting upright with its eyes closed - maybe even snoring - but they're still aware of their surroundings, as demonstrated by a swivelling ear now and then. This is a resting state, similar to a computer in sleep mode that pings alert with the click of a button. Shop Pet Furniture → Due to a cat's strong survival instinct, they require plenty of energy to hunt and escape predators. This is why cat trees are an essential part of their territory: the higher they are, they less vulnerable they are to attack. It also puts them out of the way of human traffic, but some cats require a little more privacy. Cat trees with built-in condos; standalone huts, tents and even upturned boxes with a blanket or cushion inside will be greatly appreciated by your kitty. For extra timid cats, sleeping areas should be provided in a quiet area or private room so they can withdraw when necessary. When bringing a new addition into the home, offer a variety of bedding and let it choose its favourite spot. Feandrea Large Cat Tree Tower provides height, space and enrichment. Stands at 206cm tall and features 5 levels including 2 perches, 2 condos, 1 hammock and 14 scratching zones. If cats are happy to share a bed with their human companions, it means they find your scent comforting which is a huge sign of trust and affection. Scent and familiarity are vital to a cat's sense of security, so it's wise to keep a few used blankets handy when it comes to washing bedding or introducing cats to a new home. Multi-cat households should have separate sleeping areas available for each cat. While they won't necessarily stick to their own beds, as cats like to spread themselves around, it'll help to limit territorial behaviour by having more than one option. Related post: Small Cat Tree Stands and Towers for All Cats (Tried and Tested) Food and Water A designated feeding area and scheduled mealtimes help to satisfy a kitty's need for routine. Cats have impeccable body clocks and will do regular sweeps of the home to check everything is accessible and in its rightful place, which can be amusing to watch. You should also consider the type of food you want to feed your cat. No matter how much stimulation you provide, an indoor kitty is never going to be as active as their outdoor counterparts. Dry food or kibble is packed with carbohydrates and generally less nutritious than wet or fresh food, but this depends on your cat's preferences and budget. Related post: The Truth About Commercial Cat Food: What Really Goes into Your Pet's Food? Shop Premium Cat Food → A moisture-rich, high-protein and low-carbohydrate diet is essential for all felines. Foods that claim to be tailored to indoor cats are little more than a marketing tactic with a high price tag, which you can learn more about here: 5 Indoor Cat Foods Rated: Are They Really Worth it? It's not always the easiest thing to transition a cat to new food, especially if it's used to a particular type or brand; but the long-term health benefits are worth the time and effort. Some cats prefer to have their food and water stations separate; and as clean water should always be available, offering multiple bowls around the home will encourage them to keep up their water intake. Shop smart fountains and automatic feeders → Pet fountains are highly recommended - not only do they ensure a fresh and running supply of water, but they can be a source of enrichment for your indoor cat. For multi-cat households, a variety of food and water stations may help to avoid unnecessary squabbling. FOFNON Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain is resistant to corrosion and uses multiple filtration systems to purify water. It features a tap for stimulating natural water flow and holds enough for adult cats to use for 8-12 days. Litter Trays As another vital resource, the general rule for litter trays is one per household cat, plus one extra. This can seem excessive, but using the toilet puts cats in a vulnerable position. Lidded or hooded trays aren't recommended for multi-cat homes as they restrict a cat's vision and may cause territorial disputes around the entrance. Not only that, but smells can build up inside and deter cats from using it. This isn't always the case, and if your cat prefers an enclosed box then keep it as it is. However, if problems occur then try switching it for an open or high-sided tray. Whatever style you decide on, regular scooping will keep cats happy and is more hygienic for your home in general; as well as choosing the right type of litter. Trays should be placed away from high traffic areas. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Exercise and Play Just like humans, cats need regular exercise to maintain their physical, mental and emotional health. Exercise helps to prevent obesity, improve mobility and muscle tone; promote healthy digestion and much more. Burning off excess energy can also reduce anxiety and conflict between household cats. Related post: How to Exercise Obese Cats for Weight Loss The easiest way to achieve this for indoor cats is through play, with a variety of toys to stimulate the mind as well as the body. Interactive toys, food puzzles and enrichment are great boredom breakers for when you're absent or unavailable. Catit Play Treat Puzzle Slow Feeder has 6 fun activities that stimulate cats to work for their food. Place treats or kibble in the different sections to encourage natural hunting instincts and foraging. Cats can be kept active with climbing areas including cat trees, wall-mounted shelving, ramps, ladders, boxes and tunnels. Scratch posts and mats allow cats to sharpen their claws, work their muscles, stretch their bodies and leave territorial markings - this is completely normal behaviour and should be encouraged. How much exercise a cat needs will depend on their age, breed and activity levels. As a minimum, 30 minutes broken up into 10-minute sessions will make the most out of their short spurts of energy and prevent them from getting bored. Related post: 12 Types of Cat Toys and Games for All Cats to Play Remember too that indoor cats tend to spend more time sleeping and grooming than active outdoor cats. This can make their digestive systems a little sluggish, increasing the build-up of hairballs. Regular brushing can help to combat this problem, especially for the long-haired kitties. Outdoor Spaces If you decide to let your kitty outside to feel the breeze in its whiskers, be sure to provide them with a safe and escape-proof space or use a harness if they're trained. Being outdoors for the first time can be scary and overwhelming, and they won't be as alert to dangers or threats as an experienced explorer. Related post: How to Harness Train Cats for Walking on a Leash Safely Cat proofing a garden depends on the design and layout of the area, but below are a few ideas for inspiration. Use high fences or mesh netting to section off areas, such as a yard or patio. This may require some DIY skills. Install cat-proof fencing, which is constructed from wire mesh and brackets that are fixed to the top of fence panels at a sloped angle that makes it difficult for cats to grip onto or jump over. Build a catio - a secure enclosure that fits around a door or window so cats can come and go as they please. Other outdoor enclosures. If you have the space and it's within your budget, I recommend checking out Omlet for some great customisable cat enclosures, including balcony designs for apartment dwellers. Allowing access to outdoor space, however small, while keeping cats safe is giving them the best of both worlds. You can even kit out your catio with shelving, ramps and pet-safe plants for the complete jungle experience. Visit If this isn't a viable option, window hammocks are a great alternative. Setting up a couple of bird feeders outside will provide your cat with lots of entertainment and a change of scenery. Whatever you decide, make sure there's a shaded area, fresh water and shelter from the elements. This could be an outdoor cat hut, dog kennel or a simple box covered by a waterproof sheet. PREFUNY Folding Cat Window Hammock has a stainless steel frame with a weight-bearing capacity of 18kg. It's suitable for all seasons with soft wool on one side and breathable silk on the other. Summary Not only is it of the utmost importance to ensure the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of your furries, it's actually a legal requirement in the UK. The Animal Welfare (England and Wales) Act 2006 and Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 places a duty of care on pet owners to ensure that all domestic animals have their welfare needs met. A pet’s requirements will depend on their species, but your cat has a legal right to: Live in a suitable environment Eat a suitable diet. Exhibit normal behaviour patterns. Be housed with or apart from other animals. Be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease These regulations shouldn't be standard conditions but, rather, minimum guidelines. Going above and beyond for your furries gives them a better chance of living a happy, healthy, comfortable and pain-free life - or as much as is possible for a domestic animal. Mentioned Products FONFON Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain PEFUNY Folding Cat Window Perch Are you the parent of an indoor kitty or considering getting a house cat? Has this article helped you to make a decision? Share your opinion or experiences in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: What Is Holistic Care for Cats? Why Is Holistic Care Important for Cats? Diet and Nutrition Supplements More Herbal Remedies Environment and Enrichment Exercise and Play Homeopathy Acupuncture Physical Therapy Natural vs Prescription Calming Medicine Is Aromatherapy Safe for Cats? What Is Holistic Care for Cats? Holistic care addresses the root cause of health problems, while traditional veterinary medicine focuses on managing or treating symptoms. In other words, holistic therapies are used to prevent diseases before they become an issue and enhance quality of life - which means less vet bills for you and increased health and wellbeing for kitty. Holistic care can involve medicines, albeit on a less invasive scale than traditional medication. More than that, it relies on the body's own methods of self-healing and considers every aspect of a cat's life. This is achieved by exploring areas such as: Diet and nutrition. Herbal medicine and supplements. Exercise and play. Environment and enrichment. Physical therapy. Mental health and wellbeing. Complementary therapies can (and in some cases, should) be used alongside veterinary medicine. Vaccinations are important for protecting cats against infectious diseases, as well as preventing the spreading of diseases to other animals and even humans. If your kitty has a condition that requires medical treatment then it should never be ruled out in favour of a holistic approach. Pet Remedy Calming Diffuser contains a low concentration of valerian and essential oils to work with a cat's natural calming mechanisms when tackling stress and anxiety. Ideal for most pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents and birds. Consider how humans use holistic therapies after receiving a cancer diagnosis. Many people turn to alternative treatments, from supplements to simple lifestyle changes - and more than a few old wives' tales, I'm sure. This should only be done under the advice of a doctor and in combination with traditional medicine, such as chemotherapy and/or surgery. To not do so would pose a serious danger to one's life. As long as holistic care doesn't interfere with medical treatments, most doctors will encourage it even if they don't believe in its effectiveness. A positive outlook can do wonders for a patient's emotional and mental wellbeing. In short, one type of therapy shouldn't be used to replace another. Why Is Holistic Care Important for Cats? Making better choices for your felines and being more mindful of their needs is part of being a responsible pet parent; after all, our cats are completely reliant on us. They can't tell us when they have a problem, but they're showing us all the time in their daily behaviour. The type of diseases that may benefit from a holistic approach are those influenced by diet, stress and immune system dysfunction. Here are a few examples: Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS). Urinary tract disease. Respiratory problems, such as infections and asthma. Diabetes. Allergies. Arthritis. Visit Again, using humans as a comparison, holistic care can help to improve or speed up the recovery process after injury or surgery. Physical therapy, supplements and massage can promote healing and reduce pain, inflammation or stiffness. A human wouldn't rely on pain medications alone after major surgery, although not all animals will respond well to physical therapy. So too, we know that antibiotics can upset the stomach and the effects are similar in animals, with disrupted gut microbiome and decreased bacterial resistance. While antibiotics are the first choice of treatment for cats with wee problems, a good vet will want to rule out other causes of urinary tract disease. Inflammation of the bladder (cystitis) can be caused by stress or a build up of crystals, which is common in males due to their long and narrow urethras. I've been in this exact situation with Drax, who was in and out of vet clinics with urine infections and had some unpleasant reactions to antibiotics. I therefore understand the importance of alternative treatments before throwing medication at a problem. It's no quick fix, but with a combination of dietary and lifestyle changes, Drax has been cystitis free for two years! Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress Diet and Nutrition Despite all of the technological advances in Western medicine, one thing it can't cure is a poor diet. Cats are 100% carnivores and require high-protein meat sources, which isn't always what you're getting from commercial cat foods that are packed with grains, fillers, preservatives and other yucky substances. High moisture is crucial to a cat's diet, and the only thing kibble is high in is carbohydrates - which are low in nutritional value. A dry food diet can lead to chronic dehydration, which can increase the risk of urinary tract disease. It's also been linked to poor digestion, obesity and diabetes - but let's not get ahead of ourselves. These are just some examples of how many diseases can arise from an improper diet, which could otherwise be avoided. Related post: Cats and Carbohydrates: Is Dry Cat Food Bad for Cats? Edgard & Cooper Chunks in Sauce made with human-grade meat and gently cooked. Grain-free with no artificial colours, flavourings or preservatives. Plenty of cats live out their days on dry food, and it's the responsibility of parents to ensure they're not overfeeding cats by sticking to manufacturers' guidelines and choosing a high-quality kibble. Offering plenty of water stations, encouraging play/exercise and regular health check-ups are all things we should be doing, regardless of what cats are eating. Related post: Grain-Free vs Grains Cat Food: Which is Better? Unlike dogs, cats have specific preferences and are much pickier about what they will and won't eat. I can attest to this myself with a kitty that REFUSES to eat anything but kibble, and even that's limited to one or two different brands. The point here is that if your kitty is willing to eat wet food - or even better, you can switch them onto a fresh food diet - then it's worth investing in as minimally processed food as your budget allows. Think of it in human terms, sure you could live out the rest of your days on carb-loaded pizza, but be prepared for some long-term health implications. Learn about the importance of natural nutrition in this detailed post: Fresh Raw and Cooked Cat Food: Tailor-Made Nutrition Sent to Your Door! Supplements In relation to food, natural supplements can play a role in supporting a cat's mind and body by addressing specific health needs and/or deficiencies. Holistic medicine has been used by humans for centuries and continues to be a growing market, with the complementary and alternative medicine market projected to reach $657 billion by 2030. More recently it's been extended to animals, as certain herbs have properties that may well benefit your cats. YuMOVE Calming Care contains natural ingredients to help reduce stress, anxiety and support calm behaviour. Easy opening capsules so powder can be sprinkled over food. Supplements for skin and coat; digestion; stress and multivitamins are readily available online, but most healthy cats don't need them. Commercial pet foods have their downsides, but they're formulated to provide all of the nutrients a cat requires in their daily diet. Adding more unnecessarily can upset the balance and cause more harm than good. The exception may arise if your vet prescribes a supplement for a particular health condition: for example, anti-inflammatory properties for ageing or swollen joints. You can also seek guidance from a holistic veterinarian to work with your cat's specific needs. YuMOVE Joint Care for Cats is a triple-action supplement designed to support joint structure, aid mobility and reduce stiffness. It contains a concentrated source of omega-3 in easy opening capsules that can be mixed into food. Herbal Remedies Similar to supplements, herbal remedies are a safe and effective method to manage anxiety and other conditions. Catnip stimulates a cat's pheromone receptors to induce feelings of joy and playfulness; while its relation, catmint, has relaxing properties that may help to reduce anxiety. Chamomile is a popular herb used in many calming treats, as is valerian root - which is a main ingredient in Pet Remedy products. The key to any herbal remedy is knowing which type of a particular plant to use, how to use it and in what quantities or doses. Some herbs can be toxic to cats so, again, it's essential to consult a holistic veterinarian or use a remedy that's commercially available. Rescue Pet Calming Dropper uses natural flower essences to help ease tension, nervousness and excitability for cats, dogs, rabbits, horses and birds. Flowers are hand-picked in the UK. Environment and Enrichment Cats are born hunters with curious natures, which means they love to engage with and explore their environment. It stands to reason that this must be incorporated into a holistic care routine in order to satisfy those feline instincts. This is even more important for indoor cats as the home is where they spend most of their time. Related post: How to Harness Train Cats for Walking on a Leash Safely It might seem like cats don't do much as we usually see them lazing around, not to mention the 2-5 hours a day they spend on self-grooming, but that's because opportunities to use their vast array of skills are limited in a domestic setting. Hunting consists of all the behaviours we try to stimulate with play: chasing, pouncing, jumping and climbing. Daintry Cat Calming Spray combines feline pheromones with the natural soothing properties of cedarwood to reduce stress and anxiety. Use around the home or spray onto carriers prior to travelling. The purpose of all those catnaps is to replenish energy and be on alert for the next meal - or threat, as cats are prey animals too. When we don't provide opportunities to unleash these natural instincts, cats get bored. Boredom can lead to stress, anxiety and aggression; while inactivity contributes to obesity and other conditions. It's therefore important to keep cats mentally and physically stimulated to prevent behavioural issues, and there are a multitude of ways we can enrich their lives. Related post: Cat Enrichment Ideas and Boredom Breakers for Indoor Cats Environment Provide a variety of horizontal and vertical climbing areas such as cat trees; cat-friendly shelves and ladders; and window perches. Multiple levels encourage exercise, while height offers a safe vantage point where cats can observe their surroundings and look down on us pitiful humans. Related post: Small Cat Tree Stands and Towers for All Cats (Tried and Tested) Visit Utilise vertical space with the Fukumaru 4-in-1 Cat Wall Shelves. Includes a bridge, bed, shelves and scratch post. This cat walkway comes in multiple colours to match your decor. Timid cats may benefit from hiding areas such as huts, boxes and tunnels; while scratch posts and mats allow for the sharpening of claws and territory marking. Ensure there are plenty of toys available for when boredom kicks in, and you could even set up a bird feeder outside of your cat's favourite window. Allow some outdoors time if possible, or you can build a catio for a secure and escape-proof enclosure. High fences deter cats from wandering, and be sure to provide a sheltered area from weather conditions. Being out in nature stimulates the senses and offers a change of scenery. If cats live strictly indoors then leave curtains or blinds open to ensure plenty of natural light. You can open windows for some fresh air and use a pet-proof lock or guard to prevent escape. Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone to help reduce stress-related behaviours; and the maternal appeasing pheromone to promote bonding and harmony in multi-cat households. For creating a stress-free home, there are many drug-free products on the market aimed at reducing anxiety in felines. Pheromone diffusers emit a vapour that mimics a cat's natural pheromones, while other diffusers and sprays use blends of essential oils that work with animals' natural calming systems. Remember to choose something that's cat specific or, at the very least, safe to use on your furry friend. Each household cat should have its own bed, food/water stations and litter tray so that if one is in use, they have the option to go elsewhere. A designated room or quiet area allows cats to retreat from the hustle and bustle of human life. Social Interactions Even though cats are known to be independent, they can still benefit from bonding time with their human companions. Purring releases endorphins that provide cats with a sense of comfort and relief. If they don't like being petted then play is a good alternative, as they'll learn to associate you with something fun and rewarding - it's always nice to feel wanted! Grooming your cat provides much more than a bonding experience. Removing loose hair limits how much they swallow, which can result in hairballs and vomiting. It also stimulates the sebaceous glands to secrete natural oils, helping to protect and lubricate the coat and prevent dandruff. Related post: 8 Best Cat Brushes, Combs and De-Shedders for All Coat Types Cats are habitual creatures so bonding is a routine that you want to encourage. Wait for them to seek you out rather than forcing interactions, and end the bonding session with a hand-fed treat to keep kitty coming back for more. Exercise and Play We've discussed the importance of enrichment for a cat's mental and emotional wellbeing, and how their environment should be reflective of their natural habitat as much as possible. Exercise too has a vital role in feline health, and the best way to stimulate this is through play. As well as utilising their hunting skills, playtime helps to prevent obesity, improve muscle tone; increase appetite and aid digestion. It's also a form of stress relief with the release of endorphins - the body's natural painkiller and happy drug. Related post: How to Exercise Obese Cats for Weight Loss PawHut Cardboard Lounger is made completely from cardboard so cats can sleep, rest or scratch the corrugated surface. Spacious for most adult cats and looks great in any room. As a general rule, cats should get a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise a day, divided into 10-15 minute sessions. This is because cats are easily bored and have short spurts of energy. Of course, this will vary depending on their age, breed, health and activity levels. Kittens require lots of intense play, while seniors may prefer short 5-minute sessions paced throughout the day. Playtime activities should stimulate the mind as well as the body. Puzzle feeders, treat dispensers and interactive toys provide more of a challenge and encourage natural hunting behaviours. Obstacle courses can be made using tunnels, huts, ramps and different level platforms if your home allows for it. Related post: DIY Cat Toys That Are Cheap and Easy to Make: Step-by-Step Guides Homeopathy Homeopathy has little research or evidence to back up its effect on animals. In fact, it's been widely rejected by scientists and continues to be a topic of debate in the veterinary world. Despite this, many practitioners of holistic therapies continue to recommend it. Homeopathy offers a natural and gentle way to support health, based on the theory of "like cures like". This simply means that a substance that can cause symptoms in a healthy individual (in large doses) can be used to treat similar symptoms in a sick individual, if administered in very small doses. For example, arnica can be used topically for bruises, swelling, inflammation, wound healing and rashes; yet it contains a substance derived from poison ivy. Homeopathic medicines are made from natural substances such as plants and minerals, usually in the form of highly diluted substances. These are used to stimulate the immune system to trigger the body's natural defences and promote self-healing. Homeopathic remedies are used throughout the world on humans, with proven results in conditions such as: digestive diseases, skin conditions, bone and joint disorders, urinary tract infections and behavioural problems. Due to growing success with animals, more and more vets are beginning to study it. Acupuncture Acupuncture is well-known in the Western world, perhaps slightly less so for animals. The traditional Chinese medicine practice involves inserting tiny needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy and enhance the body's natural healing abilities. Acupuncture is most commonly used to relieve pain but can also reduce inflammation; improve circulation and mobility; stimulate appetite and reduce stress. When performed under the care of a veterinarian trained in acupuncture, it's a safe and effective treatment that can be used alongside other holistic therapies, as well as traditional medicine. Some cats respond well to treatment if kept calm, but it largely depends on the cat's personality and tolerance levels. For my wimpy duo, this would be a thing of nightmares! A consultation with a licensed practitioner is essential to discuss your cat's specific health needs. Physical Therapy Massage and physical therapy, also known as rehabilitation, can be beneficial for cats that are recovering from surgery or injury. Similar to what a human might undergo after a spinal injury or when learning to walk again, this is achieved through targeted exercises and stretches. Physical therapy can help cats to regain mobility, reduce pain and inflammation; and improve their quality of life. Massage might be used to improve circulation and blood flow, support joint mobility and reduce stress. This can also be done at home with a few simple techniques, which is great for senior cats or simply giving your kitty a pamper session - as long as it's willing. By working with a veterinarian and physical therapist that has experience with felines, you can incorporate physical therapy into post-surgery or injury recovery to provide a tailored and comprehensive care routine. Natural vs Prescription Calming Medicine Calming remedies are probably the most popular holistic medicine for cats due to them being susceptible to stress and anxiety. Kitty behaviour and aggression are huge focal points of this site and something we've discussed in numerous posts. Cats are solitary creatures in the wild and spend their days napping, hunting and evading predators. Sounds stressful, right? Yet it's what they're built for! Shop smart fountains and automatic feeders → Cats were not designed to be cooped up indoors with noisy humans, processed food and sharing territories with annoying housemates. A vet might prescribe anti-anxiety or anti-depressant medications, which come with their own advantages and disadvantages. Many people complain of sedative effects and changes to their cat's personality, becoming withdrawn or lacking in energy. However, prescription medications can be highly successful in treating severe mood disorders, whereby the cat can't function without them or is at risk of being rehomed. Beaphar Herbal Calming Treats contain hop flowers, Melissa and valerian which are known for their calming properties. They help to promote relaxation and reduce the symptoms of stress including scratching and excessive vocalisation. Natural remedies work best for mild cases of anxiety, short-term problems or stressful situations like moving house. As with many conditions or diseases, sometimes a gentle dose is all it takes for the body's natural defences to kick in. Prescription or veterinary medicine is a better option for serious or long-standing cases of anxiety. Either way, both traditional and holistic medicine can be used in combination with other modifications: lifestyle, environmental changes or working with a behaviourist, if necessary. If you do choose the natural route, commercial remedies are a safer option than inventing your own concoctions based on a Google search. When you purchase something from a shop or online, there's no guessing how to use the product or what dosage to administer. You know the ingredients are specifically for cats and all of the information you need is on the label. Is Aromatherapy Safe for Cats? Some sources claim that aromatherapy can be greatly beneficial for reducing stress and promoting relaxation in cats, while others forbid it. Even if you're using the correct essential oils with proper dilution or a diffuser in a ventilated space, there are more reasons to avoid aromatherapy than there are to try it. Some of the dangers associated with aromatherapy include: Sensitivity to essential oils As with herbs, some can be toxic to felines and cat-friendly oils vary from source to source. Some recommend eucalyptus for respiratory problems and congestion, while others condemn it as poisonous. Either way, eucalyptus falls into the category of scents that cats are averse to - it's even used in some commercial urine repellents! Rather than searching for generic lists of essential oils that are safe for cats, consult a holistic vet who's qualified to advise you or leave aromatherapy to the humans. Poisoning Oils should never be applied directly to skin or fur because cats are self-groomers and may lick it off - even diffusers that release oils into the air can leave a residue on their coats. While this may be safe for other animals, cats have fewer liver enzymes to metabolise them. This can lead to poisoning, toxicity and liver damage. Inhalation Breathing in concentrated fumes can irritate the respiratory tract. This is also a risk with scented candles, air fresheners and cleaning fluids, so bear in mind when you're next lighting up or bleaching the floor that it could be a serious health hazard. Related post: 8 Common Household Items That Are Dangerous or Toxic to Cats When it comes to holistic care, whatever route you go down, the goal is to improve the lives of your pets by focusing on all aspects of health and wellbeing: mental, emotional and physical. This doesn't mean you should ignore traditional medicine or treatments. As highlighted, your first point of call should always be a registered vet. Addressing all of your cat's needs often takes more than one approach, and the goal is to ensure the health, happiness and safety of our pets. Mentioned Products YuMOVE Joint Care for Cats Rescue Pet Calming Dropper Fukumaru Cat Wall Shelves Are you ready to take a holistic approach to pet care? Did you find any of the above helpful? If you need more advice, drop a comment or get in touch.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: Signs of Aggression Cat Body Language: Aggression vs Play How Can I Tell If Cats Are Playing or Fighting? Summary In my previous post, Cat Body Language: Signs of Aggressive Behaviour in Felines, we took an in-depth look at some of the behaviours associated with aggression; as well as the differences between defensive and offensive aggression. Going a step further, it's also important to recognise when cats are actually fighting and having a good ol' wrestling match. Cats are solitary creatures in the wild, so the fact that they've evolved to accept companionship is a miracle in itself. If your cats are playing together then you should consider it a form of social bonding, which is exactly the behaviour we want to promote. Note that playing isn't the same as one cat terrorising another, which we'll cover later in this article. On the flip side, where aggression is present, it's crucial to step in before it has a chance to escalate. Petty squabbles can fast become full-contact fights, which are much harder to remedy. First things first, I recommend checking out the above mentioned post if you haven't already done so or aren't familiar with the typical signs of feline aggression. Signs Of Aggression Let's take a quick look at some of the physical, vocal and behavioural actions of an angry kitty. Physical Vocal Behavioural Flattened ears. Hissing. Clawing. Fluffed up fur. Growling. Biting. Swishing tale. Yowling. Swiping. Arched back. Screaming. Staring. Hunched. Spitting. Chasing. Crouched low to the ground. Caterwauling. Blocking. Most parents will have witnessed any or all of these signs, whether directed at themselves, another cat; toys and even things we don't expect. Have you ever seen kitty puff out her fur like she's doing an impression of Sonic the Hedgehog for no apparent reason, or run hissing from the room? It's highly likely that she was spooked by something and preparing to defend herself against this unknown threat. Fear aggression doesn't necessarily have to be incited by another cat, but it can certainly cause miscommunications to happen within multi-cat households. To add to the complexity of felines, a lot of the behaviours above can be exhibited through play. Beaphar Herbal Calming Treats contain hop flowers, Melissa and valerian which are known for their calming properties. They help to promote relaxation and reduce the symptoms of stress including scratching and excessive vocalisation. Play is an extension of their natural hunting instincts, which can be a nerve-wracking experience for parents whose cats haven't been getting along. There were times when I was afraid to let my boys near each other, so it's essential that you learn how to read a cat's body language in order to spot the differences between fighting and playing. ​ Cat Body Language: Aggression vs Play Body Part Aggression Play Ears Flattened / pinned back. Upwards, straight or slightly forwards to show interest / curiosity. Eyes Wide or slanted; unblinking stare. Wide; indirect staring with little or no eye contact. Mouth Bared teeth; biting; continuous hissing / spitting / growling / yowling. Relaxed; may be open or closed; loose biting; occasional meow or hiss / cry in rough play. Fur Fluffed up or coming out in chunks. Normal Tail Fluffed up or bristly; tucked under the body; low swishing from side to side or thumping. Flicking end; wagging; high up or vertical. Paws Swatting or swiping with claws; fur caught in nails. Lighter and more playful swatting or "windmilling"; claws retracted. Posture Hunched; arched back; sideways stance; stomach flat to the ground; upright on haunches; lying on its back. Relaxed; crouching; butt wiggle. Behaviour Chasing; ambushing; blocking; stalking. Stalking; pouncing; grappling; wrestling; chasing back and forth. As you can see from the table, certain aggressive behaviours overlap those exhibited during play. It can take a trained eye to know if or when to step in, particularly if either kitty has a tendency to take things too far. Fortunately, cats are known to give so many physical and vocal warnings before launching an attack that, with a little practice, you may be able to stop aggression from escalating. We should also bear in mind that, given the internal mechanisms of a cat and how they're built - i.e., with fangs and claws - while there shouldn't be any injuries during play, it's completely normal for cats to roughhouse each other. Playtime is as entertaining for them as it is for you. I've spent countless hours watching my boys stalking and pouncing on each other; chasing up and down hallways; swatting through gaps in doors and spying around furniture. Their wrestling matches can be intense, and while the odd shriek is concerning for a parent, rest assured that your kitties are having the time of their lives! How Can I Tell If Cats Are Playing or Fighting? I’ll say it again: your cats will tell you! Learn the language, understand the language, speak the language. During play, cats will take it in turns to chase, stalk and pounce with an overall lighter or “bouncier” energy. There should be no obvious tension, both cats will engage and go back to normal afterwards. You may see them separate occasionally to reposition themselves, or simply to take a breather. If cats are locked together in a squalling cluster then you’re witnessing a full-contact fight. No one should be peeing or pooping during a play session (yes, that includes you) as this is a clear indication that things have gone too far. Cats can also release fluid from their anal glands when they’re frightened, which smells rather more offensive than pee! Bear in mind that it’s not unusual to hear cats hissing, or even the odd cry, when play gets a little too rough. Ever watched a couple of lions wrestling? Notice how they lock their jaws around each other’s throats and pin one another to the ground - it’s all part of the fun! Cats may roll onto their backs when playing (or fighting) so they can use their powerful hind legs to kick and scratch. You might have experienced this yourself, I remember when Simba was a kitten he’d try to murder my hand. ​ Disclaimer: if you’re wondering if it’s okay to let a kitten play with your hands, the answer is no - and you can learn more about why in this post all about how to play with cats. When a cat isn’t playing or fighting, to expose its stomach is considered a vulnerable position, as we often see when they’re resting or asleep. It shows that your cat is comfortable in its environment and that it trusts its companions, human and animal alike. Hence why going in for that belly rub may not be a good idea. The biggest tell-tale sign of a cat in play mode, for me, is the chirping or “trilling” vocalisation. It generally comes with a closed mouth and is more of a nasal sound, not like the chattering you might hear in response to watching birds through a window. This chirp is basically their way of saying: “I want to play!” Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone to help reduce stress-related behaviours; and the maternal appeasing pheromone to promote bonding and harmony in multi-cat households. Perhaps the most common behaviour to spot, and we’ve all seen it, is the famous butt wiggle that comes just before a pounce. This wiggling motion acts as a warm up to prepare their muscles, check their balance and assess the stability of their footing; after all, they might only get one chance to catch their prey. Cats that are upright on their haunches and swiping at each other with claws showing is more aggressive, yet similar in posture to what is sometimes described as the “handbag scrap" where the front paws make more of a windmilling action. Cute and comical to witness, if contact is minimal and your cats aren’t screaming at one another then this is no cause for alarm. Play Aggression Play aggression is common amongst unsocialised or feral cats that have had no interaction with other cats or humans. This goes back to early bonding experiences, as kittens will generally learn the "rules" of play from their siblings and mother. That is, biting and scratching may lead to a sharp retaliation or their playmate running away. Without these experiences, cats have no way of knowing what is and isn't acceptable. Kittens are playful creatures as we know, therefore it's crucial to get them used to playing with toys so you can provide a distraction later down the line. It's also possible to retrain older cats by creating positive associations with toys, such as offering a treat whenever they use one. However, as is typical of our feline friends, sometimes aggression can be a little more complicated! Related post: DIY Cat Toys That Are Cheap and Easy to Make: Step-by-Step Guides Migipaws Interactive Feather Cat Toy features a rotating feather that randomly pops out of the holes at different time intervals. The toy starts when cats pass the infrared sensor and has an auto shut-off time of 5 minutes. If you have a particularly energetic, young or excitable cat then it may get a thrill out of attacking unsuspecting housemates - every group of friends has a prankster, right? Generally these won’t escalate into fights, but don’t be surprised to see a warning swipe from the victim. Let it cool off in a private space and, if necessary, help the overstimulated cat to burn off some energy by offering a toy to attack instead. There's also a chance that play can switch to fighting very quickly if there are any underlying issues or tension between the cats themselves. After my boys had their big falling out a couple of years ago, Simba has never quite been the same. Despite my efforts to help rebuild trust between them, occasionally, Simba will launch into a hissy fit during an otherwise friendly play session, leaving poor Drax bewildered. As mentioned previously, with such a large overlap in playful and aggressive behaviours, it's not uncommon or surprising for miscommunications to happen. Cats can have rocky relationships at the best of times but learn to tolerate each other very well in many cases. The problem occurs when one cat tries to run or hide and the other one doesn't take the hint, and it may proceed to follow, stalk or stare. Sometimes this can be an attempt at intimidation, so it's best to distract the offending cat with a toy or separate them for a few minutes to prevent overstimulation. Make sure the victim has plenty of hiding places and escape routes to avoid this stalker-like behaviour. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Summary Use this checklist outlining the positive and negative aspects of play while observing your kitties during their next play session. You might spot a few things that you otherwise wouldn't have noticed! For more tips and advice, check out this informative post: How to Read a Cat's Body Language, Behaviour and Communication Positive Signs Negative Signs ✓ Light-hearted pouncing, friendly stalking (usually with a butt wiggle) and taking it in turns to chase back and forth. ✕ Direct staring with stiff, rigid or hunched postures. ✓ Both cats engage and you may hear trilling or chirping vocalisations. ✕ Flattened ears and fluffed up fur with a (low) lashing or thumping tale. ✓ Any wrestling and / or swatting will generally be silent with claws retracted. ✕ One cat may corner, ambush or chase while the other backs off, runs or hides. ✓ Cats take small breaks in between "rounds". ✕ Continuous hissing, growling or screaming with exposed claws and bared teeth. ✓ Expect the odd hiss or cry if play gets rough. ✕ Cats locked together with no separations. Do your kitties have a tendency to play rough or does the play session end in tears? Share your experiences in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own. I am not being paid to promote any of the products mentioned in this article. Top 10 Products I Used to Help Reintroduce Fighting Cats: Comfort Zone Pheromone Diffuser YuMOVE Calming Care Beaphar Calming Cat Treats Pet Remedy Calming Spray Venture Q-Fit Baby Gate More Feandrea Large Cat Tree Tower PawHut Multi-Level Cat Tree PEFUNY Cat Window Hammock Tyasoleil Interactive Cat Toy LED Cat Laser Pointer Dealing with inter-cat aggression has been a learning curve in many ways and, at times, a costly one too. Not just in money but in time, effort and sanity! Throughout this site you'll find numerous articles on aggression between my boys and cats in general, from how it started to each stage of the reintroduction process. I've spent a lot of time trying different products and remedies, some of which I've mentioned previously, and wanted to share everything in one place. Note that just because these things worked for me doesn't necessarily mean you'll have the same success. All cats are different and will respond to different things. Hopefully, this article will offer some ideas and advice to point you in the right direction - and don't forget that you can adapt things to suit your cat's preferences and requirements. Visit If you haven't already done so, I recommend checking out these posts before continuing to get more of an idea on my situation and if it resonates with your own; as well as an in-depth look at some of the processes and techniques I used along the way. The earlier you can intervene, the more chance there is of a positive outcome. Related posts: How to Reintroduce Cats After a Fight in 6 Steps How I Successfully Reintroduced Cats After Fighting Are Your Cats Fighting? Top 5 Tips Based on Real Experiences None of the following recommendations are meant to replace veterinary care or medical treatment. You should always take cats for a health check-up to rule out underlying illnesses or conditions that could be causing your cat pain or suffering. Remedies Comfort Zone Pheromone Diffuser I'm kicking off with pheromone diffusers because it's the easiest and most effective remedy that you want to begin when cats start showing signs of stress or associated behaviours. Stress is a number one culprit when bonded cats start fighting, and pheromone diffusers can take anything from 1-4 weeks to see the full effects. I tried several well-known brands in the UK, including the big one, Feliway - but there really was no match for Comfort Zone. Made for use in single and multi-cat homes, Comfort Zone emits an analogue of feline pheromones to tackle all common signs of stress and conflict between cats in the same household. This includes behaviours such as urine spraying, scratching, excessive vocalisation, overgrooming and fighting. I use two diffusers to cover upstairs and downstairs, as well as a third one in my bedroom where the cats spend a lot of time. This does bump up the cost, but it's still cheaper than the leading brand and makes a great budget option. Refill packs are even better value for money, and you can always tell when a vial runs out because the hissing starts all over again! Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) YuMOVE Calming Care YuMOVE contains a unique combination of ingredients to help maintain calming pathways in the brain and support relaxation. Similar to diffusers, it can be used for stress-inducing events such as fireworks, changes to the environment; moving home and new pets or people. It's most effective when given daily, with easy-opening capsules so powder can be sprinkled over food. Related post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment I will mention that my fussy felines won't eat anything that smells even slightly abnormal, and YuMOVE does have a strong fishy aroma. However, it's easily administered in a syringe with a drop of water (if your cats are willing). While this didn't stop the fighting by any means, it did help Simba to chill out so he was less reactive to Drax's bullying. Even though they're no longer at war, it doesn't take much for tension to resurface and there's still a way to go as far as rebuilding the trust goes. I've found that YuMOVE helps in this respect, but I stopped giving it to Drax as he doesn't have the same anxiety issues as his brother. Main ingredients: Lemon balm promotes relaxation, soothes stress and encourages calmer behaviour. L-Tryptophan is an amino acid which is involved in the production of serotonin, helping to reduce stress. B vitamins play an important role in supporting a cat's overall health and brain function. The combination of natural GABA and L-Arginine helps to maintain calming pathways in the brain and support relaxation. Fish protein supports a cat's brain and helps calming signals to find the right spot. Also available from the YuMOVE brand are products designed to support joint care and healthy digestion for cats and dogs. Always consult with a veterinarian before giving pets supplements. Related post: Calming Supplement Reviews: ZylKene and YuMOVE Calming Care for Cats (Tried and Tested) Beaphar Calming Cat Treats *Now StressLess Herbal Calming Cat Treats. I bought these calming treats on a whim because they were on special offer, but I didn't expect them to have much of an effect. The product description claims they help to reduce the symptoms of distress and unwanted behaviour such as scratching, constant meowing, urine spraying and fighting. Treats contain a mixture of herbs, including: Melissa - calming and soothing with muscle relaxing properties. Lavender - calming scent and properties. Rosemary - reduces stress and anxiety by improving state of wellbeing. Hops - calming and soothing. Lime tree blossom - muscle relaxing properties and appeasing effects. As mentioned previously, my boys are so fussy that they refused to eat the treats by themselves, despite the packaging boasting a "delicious meaty flavour" (aka chicken). The recommended dose for ongoing use is 2 treats per day, which I had to hide in a pile of kibble or other treat biscuits. They're also quite hard to chew, so I wouldn't advise giving them to senior cats or kittens. It was hard to tell if Beaphar treats made much of a difference until the packet ran out. I started to notice that the boys were becoming slightly more reactive to each other - so of course, I bought some more! I eventually stopped giving them to Simba as it seemed unnecessary on top of the YuMOVE, but I still sneak a couple into Drax's Dreamies treats just for something to take the edge off. Every little helps when you parent a couple of skittish cats that have a tendency to take their fears and anxieties out on each other. I wouldn't recommend Beaphar Calming Treats as a standalone remedy, but rather for short-term situations such as prior to a vet visit or stressful event. This is because they don't need time to build up in the system like YuMOVE. Beaphar offers a range of calming products that you can read more about here: Beaphar Cat Calming Products: Diffuser, Spray, Spot-On, Collar and Tablets Pet Remedy Calming Spray Pet Remedy is arguably the most well-known brand after Feliway, although products have one major difference in how they function. Rather than using pheromone technology, Pet Remedy contains a blend of valerian, vetiver, basil and clary sage essential oils. Their range of diffusers, wipes and sprays are clinically proven to work with pets' natural calming systems by mimicking GABA (also an ingredient of YuMOVE) which is a natural calming agent present in all mammals, birds and reptiles. This means products aren't cat specific and can be used on a range of pets, and the low concentration of oils is gentle and starts to help immediately. The spray can be spritzed over bedding, cat trees, carriers or anywhere your kitty likes to hang out to promote calm and relaxation. It's important to remember that Pet Remedy, along with other calming products, are only a support mechanism to help calm excited nerves. There's still a matter of learnt and reactive behaviours to deal with. The main benefit for me is having an extra level of calm for my overly skittish cats. It doesn't take much to spook them into turning on each other, even more so since the aggression started: fireworks, thunder, clanging pots and pans, opening the oven door.... More recently, I've started using Feliway Classic Spray in fighting zones which has made a massive difference as far as reducing unpleasant encounters. Related post: 6 Best Cat Calming Sprays Shop Pet Furniture → Territory Venture Q-Fit Baby Gate Venture isn't only an award-winning UK baby care brand, but this product is suitable for larger pets too! Unlike dogs, it's a common concern when cat proofing the home that they can jump over whatever barrier you put in place. While this isn't specifically built for cats, it stands at 110cm which is taller than your average baby gate. My boys have never attempted to jump over it, and you can block off any visual temptations by draping a blanket or sheet over the top of it. Other features: Expands to fit openings, doorways, halls and staircases with a width of 75cm-84cm. Pressure mounted with included wall cups for added security. Unique 90° two-way opening door with safety locking feature. Available in black or white. Feandrea Large Cat Tree Tower Cat trees are an essential part of feline furniture, whether you have one cat or an army of them. They're not only beneficial for sleeping, resting and climbing - but safety too. In the wild, cats seek height advantage to look out for or escape larger predators, so it makes sense that they'd use them to avoid other household cats. Feandrea Cat Tree Tower stands at 206cm and has multiple levels, with two cushioned perches, two roomy condos and two hammocks. This was Simba's safe zone and I honestly don't know how we'd have managed without it in those early stages. The height was a great deterrent, as Drax tended to go after him on smaller trees if they could reach to swipe each other. Even if he tried to follow, there was enough time to stop him from getting to the top or encroaching on Simba's space. Simba was able to keep a watchful eye on his brother prowling around the living room during their supervised meetings. Once they grew more tolerant of each other, it provided an opportunity to get used to sharing the same space again and, eventually, sleeping side by side on the two perches. Other features: Large, sturdy base, making it safe for pets to climb without toppling over. Multiple resting spots. Hanging pompoms and scratch posts for added enrichment. PawHut Multi-Level Cat Tree Firstly, PawHut is my favourite brand for cat trees and you can guarantee that products are high quality, sturdy and worth every penny. I invested quite a bit in cat furniture, probably more so than anything else because keeping the boys out of each other's ways was a crucial part of avoiding conflict. I plan on adding more territory over time, including wall-mounted shelving. Providing these avoidance/escape opportunities really made a difference, and I figured the steps would make it easier for Simba to climb up to safety without being cornered - such a horror movie cliché, I know. It was actually Drax that started using them, which was surprising given that he was the bully or chaser in these scenarios. This told me that he didn't want to engage in confrontation but, more likely, he felt that he had no choice. As I've highlighted so many times, stress can have major impacts on a cat's behaviour. Drax seemed to use the steps as a quick exit so he could observe his brother without it falling into a territorial battle. By making sure there was always something to jump onto if they had to pass by each other in close proximity, it gave both cats their own space and Simba's confidence grew from there. I can't stress enough the importance of adding as much territory as your home allows - just a small elevation off ground level makes a huge difference to a cat's personal space. Check out this post for more recommendations: Small Cat Tree Stands and Towers for All Cats (Tried and Tested) Other features: Sisal-wrapped scratching posts for sharpening claws. Made from solid particle board and covered in soft plush fabric. Round top perch, which is quite small for an adult cat but Drax is 5kg and just manages to squeeze onto it. Helps senior cats and kittens to climb. This is a medium-sized cat stand at 100cm tall, which is probably why Simba doesn't use it. Taller cat trees with built-in huts or beds are more suitable for scared or anxious cats to hide in. PEFUNY Cat Window Hammock Window hammocks, seats or perches aren't only great for indoor cats, but convenient for saving space and can be folded up when not in use. There are a few different styles, including hammocks that clip onto window frames that can be easily removed. I was never a fan of the suction cup application due to the danger of them falling off, but they've come a long way in design and features. I recommend PEFUNY for its strong suction power: simply dampen the cups, press onto the window and leave to dry. Some other hammocks use a pressure method, whereby the cups are tightened with screw caps that essentially suck all the air out so they adhere to the glass. You can see an example of this below, modelled by Simba at 6.5kg. While initially the favourite hammock, it started falling off once the screws started to weaken. Another small word of caution, if windows become condensed then it can cause slippage between the glass and suction cups. Always ensure a clean, dry surface for maximum hold. For larger windows, you could apply multiple hammocks to create a fun climbing area. This is a good alternative to wall-mounted shelves that can cause permanent damage to decor. Other features: Double-sided washable mat with a combination of breathable mesh and soft plush for all seasons. Stainless steel frame that can hold up to 18kg. Multiple sizes and styles. Toys and Enrichment Tyasoleil Interactive Cat Toy If you're familiar with this site - and my cats - then you'll know that playtime is more of a chore than entertainment for my lazy dumplings. I've tried numerous interactive toys for the promise of extra stimulation, but they're still more excited by a screwed up ball of paper than a £30 gadget. It doesn't help that they're a couple of wimps that scarper from anything that moves too fast or too noisily. However, this was the only toy I found that distracted them enough to take the focus away from hissing at each other. In fact, it was the first time they were able to sit side by side in a room together for weeks, so I have to give it some credit. Tyasoleil Interactive Cat Toy was actually recommended on another blog that described a similar case of redirected aggression between sibling cats but, unfortunately, I can't remember the name. I'm making the same recommendation in the hopes that it'll help you as much as it helped me in those early stages. So, how does it work? In short, feathers are attached to the wand that slots into a rotating base, and the unpredictable motion patterns mimic real-life prey. There are three play modes: "Escape", where feathers fly through the air; "Hide and Seek" under the plastic sheet; and affixing the base to a cat tree post. Other features: Fleecy base design to prevent slippage. Slow, medium and fast speeds for cats of all ages. USB rechargeable. Auto shut-off after 5 minutes and reactivated by touch so cats can operate the toy themselves. The only downside, along with every other toy, is that the novelty wears off fast and my cats were bored after the initial excitement. To keep things fun, this lives in the toy box and I get it out every other day so it's always something new. Related post: 12 Types of Cat Toys and Games for All Cats to Play LED Cat Laser Pointer Laser pointers should ideally be used in combination with toys so cats have a physical "prey" or reward to avoid frustration, but as far as distraction goes, I was never without a laser pointer in my pocket. You never known when things might kick off, and lasers give cats a focus as well as something to chase. More than that, it allows you to lead cats away from each other or wherever you want them to go. This particular product is multifunctional with a built-in flashlight and UV mode, while the laser comes in a choice of shapes including the standard dot, a smiley face, mouse, butterfly and star. The cute design is comfortable to hold for long periods of time. While these aren't the only products I used when reintroducing my cats, they were the most useful in my experience. With a combination of natural remedies, toys, enrichment and territory, it should be much easier for cats to get along - but it won't happen overnight. Find a process or routine that works best for your cats and, remember, I'm always on hand to offer more products and advice! Have you tried any of these recommendations? Did they work for your cats? Feel free to comment with any products or advice that others might find helpful when dealing with inter-cat aggression.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on extensive research into products, brands, customer feedback and my own reviews wherever applicable. There's no shortage of cat calming products on the market, and the overwhelming selection can make it hard for owners to know where to begin. Whether you're wondering which calming method is best for your kitty, what makes sprays a good option or looking for top recommendations, this article explores six sprays that you can use in the home and on the go. Top Picks at a Glance Go to review ⇨ Best Overall Feliway Classic Spray ✓ Mimics the feline facial pheromone. ✓ Works in 15 minutes. ✓ Available in 20ml or 60ml bottles. Go to review ⇨ Best Herbal Remedy Pet Remedy Calming Spray ✓ Contains valerian and essential oils. ✓ Effective immediately. ✓ Suitable for most small pets. Go to review ⇨ Best Multi-Use Daintry Cat Calming Spray ✓ Mimics the feline facial pheromone. ✓ Contains calming cedarwood. ✓ Natural flea repellent. Go to review ⇨ Best Natural Option Catly Cat Calming Spray ✓ Plant-based formula. ✓ Chamomile, sage and catnip. ✓ Effective immediately. Go to review ⇨ Best Budget Pheromone Spray Beaphar CatComfort Calming Spray ✓ Mimics the feline facial pheromone. ✓ One bottle provides 214 sprays. ✓ Odourless. Go to review ⇨ Best Value Beaphar StressLess Herbal Calming Spray ✓ Contains valerian. ✓ Large bottle. ✓ Suitable for cats and dogs. The pet calming product market has seen rapid growth in recent years, which suggests there are a lot of stressed out cats at home. You might even recognise some of these brands, particularly if you've already tried plug-in diffusers, collars or herbal treats. Some products are better suited to short-term anxiety, while others - such as diffusers - can be used on a longer-term basis to tackle problem behaviours. The portable option of a spray makes it convenient and more suited to a wider range of scenarios, but it can get expensive for continuous use. Whichever you choose, it's important to remember that what humans consider as "inappropriate" behaviour is completely normal for your kitty. Urine marking, scratching and aggression towards other cats are part of their innate survival instincts; however, in a domestic setting, it can indicate an underlying issue. As always, it's crucial to get cats checked over by a vet to rule out health concerns, as stress can also be a response to pain. Other signs that your cat might be suffering from anxiety include excessive meowing, hiding, overgrooming and loss of appetite. Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress Resources are important for ensuring a feline-friendly, stress-free home. If you don't provide enough litter trays, scratching posts or stimulation, no matter how many calming products you use, cats are still going to claw your furniture, wee on the carpets and run around howling at 3 a.m. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Visit Some situations and scenarios that might benefit from calming sprays include: Using on carriers prior to travelling. Vet visits. Moving house. Renovations. Fireworks and thunder. Settling or introducing new cats. Bedding and safe places. Targeting problem areas of the home (where cats scratch, urinate, etc). Multi-cat conflict. To learn more about the effects of stress on our feline friends, why it happens and how to manage it, this post is essential reading: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment Best Calming Sprays Best Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Feliway Classic Spray Feliway has been developed with over 25 years of science and research into pet welfare and is trusted by vets, animal charities and behaviourists. Just like Feliway Classic Diffuser, the spray version contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone (FFP) that cats release when rubbing their cheeks, lips, chin and forehead against objects in the home. This marking behaviour allows them to feel safe and content, as well as creating a "group scent" with other animals and their owners. The main advantage of a spray is that it can be used to help reduce stress on the go, as well as providing support at home for up to five hours. Simply spray in an area approximately 15 minutes before introducing cats to new environments or situations. The synthetic pheromones mark areas as safe and secure, reducing the need for scratching, urine spraying, crying and other stress-related behaviours. As mentioned, the portable option is something you don't get with a diffuser that has to be plugged in for continuous use. This is one of three sprays that I've tried, and it allowed me to target specific areas of the home where my cats kept getting into spats - namely doorway jams that allowed for those dreaded stand-off opportunities. They weren't always like this, as you may know if you're familiar with my blog, but it took twelve months of trial and error to bring peace back to the home. I didn't expect that sprays would make much of a difference, but I can say with a certain amount of confidence that spritzing the doorways has made a significant improvement. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Feliway Classic Spray comes in two sizes: 20ml lasts for approximately 16 sprays, while 60ml has around 50 sprays. This sounds like a decent amount, but the instructions advise using 8-9 sprays per application - which means a 20ml bottle only lasts for two separate occasions. On the plus side, I've never used that many sprays in one go as there's a generous amount of vapour. Feliway is known for its high price tags, and with the spray being effective for a maximum of five hours, it can get rather extortionate for long-term use. If this timeframe isn't enough or you want to cover a larger area, you'll save money by using a Feliway diffuser and reserving the spray for an extra boost when needed. According to Feliway studies, it has a 92% satisfaction rate with 9 out of 10 cats showing improvements in scratching and urine spraying. Customer reviews are also positive, with many finding the product beneficial for travel and vet visits; settling rescue cats and new additions. Opinions aren't so favourable regarding the smell, even though it's supposed to be odourless, the spray is ethanol based so needs a few minutes to settle. Related post: Feliway Reviews: Classic, Optimum and Friends Diffuser Comparison ✓ 10% feline facial pheromone. ✓ Choice of sizes. ✓ Lasts up to 5 hours. ✓ Veterinary recommended. ✕ Takes 15 minutes to work. ✕ Expensive. Best Herbal Remedy ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Pet Remedy Calming Spray Pet Remedy is clinically proven to work with pets' natural calming systems by mimicking GABA, a natural calming agent present in mammals, birds and reptiles. This means it can be used in multi-pet homes and the effects are immediate. The spray contains a low concentration of valerian, a herb that's known for its relaxing properties; along with vetiver, basil and clary sage essential oils. It's designed to help animals feel safe in unpredictable situations, both in the home and on journeys. Just a couple of squirts is all you need for bedding, cat trees, problem areas and carriers prior to travelling. While you should avoid spraying directly onto pets so they don't associate the spray with stressful situations, its water-based, pH-neutral formula is safe on fur and skin. It can be used to aid bonding by spraying a little onto your fingers and gently rubbing around muzzles, under the chin and top of the chest to help with scent swapping. You can also spray harnesses and leads when walking a nervous cat or dog. Effects can be seen immediately and last for 2-6 hours depending on the individual pet. I've used Pet Remedy many times during fireworks and thunder, as well as calming my cats down after fighting. Similarly, customers report positive experiences when settling anxious pets and making stressful situations less.... well, stressful! It also works well with the Pet Remedy Diffuser, but some people don't like the herbal aroma. Related post: Pet Remedy Calming Products for Cats with Reviews (Tried and Tested) ✓ Contains valerian. ✓ Suitable for most pets. ✓ Large 200ml bottle. ✓ Effective immediately. ✕ Doesn't contain pheromones. ✕ Strong smell. Best Multi-Use ⭐⭐⭐ Daintry Cat Calming Spray Daintry offers the best of both worlds by combining the soothing effects of feline pheromones with the natural calming properties of cedarwood. This unique blend is designed to reduce stress and anxiety while promoting a sense of wellbeing and relaxation. The spray is recommended for most stressful situations, travelling, new pets and adjusting to new environments. It can be applied to carriers, bedding, scratchers and furniture; however, some owners may not appreciate their sofas smelling of cedarwood! Do not spray directly onto cats. The essential oil is diluted and safe for cats, as well as having antibacterial properties and acting as an insect or flea repellent. Having used Daintry myself, I found that it was more potent than Pet Remedy but my cats didn't seem to mind. Instructions advise applying 9 sprays and waiting 30 minutes before allowing pets into the area. Effects last up to 5 hours, and it's averagely priced for a 60ml bottle. Customers find this to be an effective and fast-acting calming aid, which I can attest to with my own boys. Reviews mention using it for moving house, travelling and squabbling cats. Opinions on the scent are mixed and the bottle doesn't last very long. If you like this spray, you can also pair it with the Daintry Cat Calming Diffuser. ✓ 10% feline facial pheromone. ✓ Organic cedarwood. ✓ Flea repellent. ✓ Antibacterial. ✕ Takes 30 minutes to work. ✕ Scented. Best Natural Option ⭐⭐⭐ Catly Cat Calming Spray Catly is a German brand that focuses on plant-based formulas and recycled packaging to protect animals, humans and the planet! What makes this product a little different is that it's described as a "rescue remedy" that provides relief from stress by creating a relaxing home environment. The soothing blend of ingredients helps to calm agitated nerves and promote lasting relaxation. It contains calming chamomile and catnip, which is believed to stimulate a cat's pheromone receptors to induce feelings of euphoria. Other ingredients include sage and vitamin E, which act as antioxidants to protect cells from damage; support the immune system and promote cognitive clarity. This can help to improve mood and overall mental health. Owners find that the product helps with multi-cat conflict, nervous adoptees and excessive meowing. Many enjoy the pleasant aroma but it isn't effective on all cats. The cruelty-free, vegan formula is an alternative to traditional sprays and diffusers. ✓ Plant-based formula. ✓ Chamomile, sage, vitamin E, catnip. ✓ Effective immediately. ✓ 100ml bottle. ✕ Doesn't contain pheromones. ✕ Scented. Best Budget Pheromone Spray ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beaphar CatComfort Calming Spray Beaphar CatComfort Calming Spray is clinically proven to calm and reduce unwanted behaviours by replicating the feline facial pheromone. It's recommended for cat flaps to encourage use, which is a neat trick for training outdoor cats; window ledges in the event of peeping Toms; vet visits and areas of the home where cats need extra reassurance. A small 30ml bottle produces around 214 sprays, making it a cheaper alternative to other pheromone-based products. Directions advise 9 sprays per application which lasts up to five hours. Customer reviews mention that you don't need much to see the effects and there's no odour. It's said to reduce excessive crying during vet trips and travelling, but it doesn't work on all cats. Beaphar's calming spray can be used in conjunction with other products in the Beaphar CatComfort range, including a diffuser and spot-on. Related post: Beaphar Cat Calming Products: Diffuser, Spray, Spot-On, Collar and Tablets ✓ 10% feline facial pheromone. ✓ Lasts up to 5 hours. ✓ Clinically proven. ✓ Value for money. ✕ Not effective on all cats. Best Value ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beaphar StressLess Herbal Calming Spray Another product from Beaphar, the StressLess Calming Spray contains valerian, renowned for its ability to promote feelings of relaxation and calm. It's designed for cat and dog households to reduce symptoms of stress including scratching, spraying, constant meowing or barking and destructive behaviour. The 125ml bottle is generous compared to similar sprays but doesn't contain any other ingredients. It can be sprayed onto blankets, bedding, toys and other items used by pets; as well as carriers prior to a car journey. It's recommended for use during fearful situations such as renovations, fireworks and thunderstorms. Despite a negative opinion on the smell, owners find the product to be helpful during fireworks, travelling and spraying over bedding to help nervous pets sleep. ✓ Suitable for cats and dogs. ✓ Contains valerian. ✓ Effective immediately. ✓ Value for money. ✕ Doesn't contain pheromones. ✕ Strong smell. Summary As I always say when recommending or reviewing calming products, all cats will respond differently and some won't respond at all. Herbal options like Pet Remedy are generally better suited to stressful situations, and pheromone products help to tackle more deep-rooted behavioural problems. To find out what works best for your cat, I suggest trying one of each (herbal and pheromones) to see if either one makes a difference, then you can narrow it down to a couple of brands. If you're looking for a longer-term solution, it may be cheaper and more effective to use a plug-in diffuser. Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) Information accurate from June 2026 and may be subject to change. Have you tried any of the calming sprays mentioned or did these reviews help you to make a decision? Share your experiences and feedback in the comments to help out fellow cat parents.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting: Health Territory Stress We've all heard the term "cat fight" but we might not stop to think about what it really means until finding ourselves caught in the middle of one. Given everything we know about our feline friends and possible causes of aggression, it should come as no surprise that household cats may squabble on occasion. Whether it's one cat stealing another's bed or unintentionally blocking access to the litter tray, miscommunications and misunderstandings are commonplace in multi-cat households. Related post: Are Your Cats Fighting? Top 5 Tips Based on Real Experiences The problem occurs when bonded or sibling cats that have been living in harmony for years are suddenly at war with one another. I can say without a doubt that this was one of the worst experiences of my life, and messages from you lovely readers tell me that I'm not alone. When it comes to feline aggression, there are so many sub-topics that branch off into different areas. At the risk of repeating myself, this article will cover in more detail three main reasons why bonded cats are fighting and how you can help. Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Health Even if cats seem to be in good health, it's crucial to get them checked over by a vet to rule out any medical issues and seek treatment if necessary. Cats are both predators and prey in the wild, meaning they'll hide their ailments for as long as possible. Painful diseases such as arthritis, UTIs and dental problems could be making your cat grumpy; as well as hyperthyroidism and other conditions. Cats can also sense illness in other cats, so if you have a bully on your hands then it may be picking on a weaker or infirm kitty because it's less likely to retaliate. If your cats haven’t been neutered or spayed then this is the first piece of advice your vet should offer. Hormones aside, some cats are or can be overly territorial by nature; others simply don’t get on with other cats, particularly in cases of new additions whereby a hierarchy hasn’t been established. It’s also not uncommon for cats that previously got along to suddenly decide they no longer care for each other. While I initially wondered if this was the case with my boys, it didn’t explain Drax’s random bouts of aggression. With a history if UTIs (urinary tract infections) it made sense to get a health check-up, and it was discovered that he had crystals in his wee: a condition that can cause painful urination and bladder inflammation. Whether this was or wasn’t contributing to Drax’s mood swings, treatment required a strict diet change to urinary food - a challenge all by itself. Trying to introduce a cat to new food at the same time as managing aggression felt like an extra kick in the face, particularly as the two go hand in hand. Food is one of the best distractions and a vital part of the separation and reintroduction process. The most important thing to note is that no matter how much your kitties hate that vet’s office (or how much you dread taking them) the sooner you get it over with, the sooner you can deal with any underlying issues. Is your kitty in need of a health check-up? Follow this helpful guide on how to prepare cats for a vet visit. Territory The territorial nature of felines is as instinctive as eating and sleeping and has evolved over thousands of years. In the wild, cats are solitary creatures that only come together for the purpose of mating. Other reasons they might encounter each other are competing for food (prey) or one cat entering another cat's territory. Cats use many different scent glands around their bodies, including the face, paws and urine to let other cats know that an area is marked or "claimed". It also helps them to feel safe and comfortable within an environment when surrounded by their own scent. Comfort Zone Pheromone Diffuser for single or multi-cat homes. Creates a calm, relaxing environment to help reduce stress and other problem behaviours, as well as tension and fighting between household cats. When we consider all of this, along with body language, gestures and vocalisations, cats are so well equipped to warn and defend that coming to blows in a physical fight is usually a last resort. The good news is that with the gradual domestication of cats and less need to protect or compete for resources, such as food and shelter, their ability to form social bonds has also increased. Despite this, living indoors is so far from a cat's natural habitat that we should be thankful they can live together at all. Even cats that coexist well and are used to sharing a space may enter into territorial disputes if they feel a need to defend their marked patch. Related post: Indoor and House Cat Care Guide A cat's territory can include anything from houses and gardens to streets and neighbourhoods. How willing they are to engage in physical conflict varies from cat to cat, as some will be more confident or dominant than others. There's some debate about whether bullying is abnormal behaviour for cats; after all, we humans are the reason why they're living in unnatural habitats and conditions, being forced to cohabit with other animals and confined to small areas. PawHut Multi-level Cat Tree with a spacious condo, soft padded top bed and middle perch. Includes a hanging ball, sisal posts and massage toy. Tree stands at 85cm and is perfect for cats of all ages. It's true in the case of outdoor cats, that if they weren't happy with their living arrangements then they simply wouldn't return to their owners. Yet their owners offer shelter, warmth, food and attention, which is seemingly enough to keep them coming back for more. I'm sure there's a word for this in human terms! We can't condemn cats for defending their territory, all we can do is offer more of it. More food and water stations, more litter trays, more sleeping areas, more perches and stands - more everything! It's also about knowing your cat and what's normal behaviour for them. If you have a placid or submissive kitty that suddenly turns aggressive overnight, as was the case with Drax, then there's a good chance that he or she is in need of help. Keeping cats stimulated, active and engaged can go a long way in helping to prevent or limit antisocial behaviour. Discover more tips in this helpful post: Cat Enrichment Ideas and Boredom Breakers for Indoor Cats Stress Stress in cats can be caused by a multitude of emotional, psychological or health-related issues. It's also possible for stress to trigger certain conditions - cystitis, for example - so it's not surprising that it can effect cats on a behavioural level, too. All felines are sensitive to change, particularly when it concerns their environment, and external situations can cause anxiety or fear-based reactions that may seem overdramatic to humans. Getting spooked by a loud noise, a stranger entering the house or seeing a stray cat through a window are all examples of possible triggers for redirected aggression. Feliway Classic Spray contains feline pheromones that help to reduce common signs of stress. Can be used during major changes including renovations, travel and vet visits. Available in 20ml or 60ml bottles. These situations can trigger an emotional response known as the "fight-or-flight" mechanism, which prepares the body for danger with a huge adrenaline spike. People that suffer from anxiety-related disorders may be all-too familiar with this sensation: panic attacks, fear and danger are capable of throwing any human into survival mode. Cats have a strong innate survival instinct due to being in danger of predators in the wild, meaning simple misunderstandings can escalate into physical altercations. The amount of time it takes for adrenaline to leave the system can vary from hours to days, or sometimes longer. In some cases, tension between household cats may have been brewing for some time without your knowledge, as signs of aggression can be very subtle to the untrained eye. It might seem as though your cats have suddenly started fighting after living in harmony for years, but it's more likely that either one or both of them have finally reached a breaking point. Related post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment It's relatively easy to distinguish who the aggressor or bully is going off behaviour alone. Victim cats will run and hide, spending a lot of time in safe places such as cat trees and stands. They may react dramatically with defensive postures, hissing or growling whenever the bully encroaches on its space. If it isn't outright attacking then this is a clear indication of defensive aggression. Your bully, on the other hand, may stare, follow, chase, stalk and ambush; as well as claiming beds and resting places by pushing the other cat off, jumping or pouncing on them. It will also block access to resources, entry and exit points by positioning itself in doorways and corridors. As mentioned, this can be very subtle and appear as though the cat is innocently resting in a non-specific location. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources The more the victim reacts, the worse the bullying gets, with the aim of driving it out of their territory. This might have been going on for some time before it becomes noticeable, with the victim using avoidance tactics so they appear to be getting along. In reality, it could be a culmination of days, weeks or months of pent-up frustration and stress boiling to the surface. What to Do If Your Cats Are Fighting Assuming you've made it through the vet trip and arranged treatment for any issues or, even better, your kitties have been given the all clear, it's time to put all of the above into practice to identify the type of aggression being displayed. If your vet hasn't referred you to a behaviourist and you want to go down that route, it's relatively easy to search online for a reputable expert in your area or one that may be willing to work with you remotely.​ I recommend spending some one-on-one time with your cats and keeping a journal of every aspect of their behaviour that stands out as being odd or unusual. Are the concerned parties happy by themselves? Do their moods change once they’re in the same room or face to face? Are they okay in certain areas of the home but not in others? Where do they fight most? What leads up to the fights? What kind of aggression is being displayed? Is it offensive or defensive? Do these roles switch or stay the same? Is there a clear “bully” and a clear “victim”? In the case of my boys, both seemed content by themselves or if one entered a room while the other was sleeping. They tolerated each other more on different levels: for example, if Simba (victim) was at the highest point of his cat tree. Face-to-face encounters and unexpected meetings usually ended in spats. There was also a lot of role swapping, whereby Simba would get so pissed off at Drax's bullying that when Drax did eventually want to make friends, Simba wasn't having any of it. Again, it may be worth investing in a specialist who can observe your cats and make an accurate diagnosis. Alternatively, there's a lot you can do at home to ease some of the tension, from environmental modifications to natural remedies such as pheromone diffusers. Related post: How I Successfully Reintroduced Cats After Fighting Does any of the above sound familiar? Share your story in the comments and let us know if this article helped.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: How to Choose a Suitable Cat Carrier Turning Carriers into a Safe Place Cat Calming Products Travelling to the Vet Clinic More Taking Multiple Cats for a Vet Visit Summary For the majority of parents, this could be more accurately titled: Vet Visits from HELL. The worst thing you can do is scoop up your unsuspecting cat and shove it into a carrier, as much as we want to get it over with as quickly as possible. The same would apply to any pet: I had a bunny that would scarper whenever he saw the basket of doom. If you're not familiar with this site then get reading, because here's where you want to use a cat's territorial nature to your advantage. How to Choose a Suitable Cat Carrier The carrier should be a safe haven, not a prison. How would you like to be plucked out of your comfy home and carted off to some unknown destination in a plastic box? Wouldn't you feel slightly more comfortable if that box (or vehicle) belonged to you? Preparing cats for a vet visit starts not hours, but days before stepping into a clinic. If you're lucky enough to have cats from a young age, ideally kittens, this is a good time to normalise vet trips - which you should be doing with check-ups, vaccinations, microchipping and/or having them desexed. Taking cats on short car journeys may also help them get used to travelling. If your kitty associates its carrier with fear, that trauma is going to come flooding back every time he or she sees it. Any kind of enclosure is going to freak a cat out because it prevents escape, which is their first response to danger. Not to mention all of the new smells that a clinic has to offer, including the scents of other animals. To ease this process, selecting the right type of carrier is a good place to start. Beaphar Herbal Calming Treats contain hop flowers, Melissa and valerian which are known for their calming properties. They help to promote relaxation and reduce symptoms of stress including scratching and excessive vocalisation. Removable tops or lids are ideal so you can lift your cat into and out of the carrier, rather than trying to force it through a front entrance. It also allows the vet to carry out their examination from the carrier with minimal handling. Sometimes cats don't appreciate being touched by their owners, let alone a stranger. Have you ever petted your kitty, only for it to start grooming the area that you put your hands on? As for the size of the carrier, it should have enough room for cats to stand up or lie down and adjust their position; but not so big that they fall around while travelling. Cats Protection recommend using a carrier that's a few centimetres longer, wider and taller than your cat - so if you have kittens then it'll need upsizing as they grow. Carriers should also have ventilation slots on each side. Visit It's not unusual to see people travelling with cats in soft carriers or even backpacks, as is the current social media trend, which ultimately depends on the temperament of your cat. Remember they're capable of ripping and biting through fabric if they're frightened enough, and it doesn't offer as much protection as a plastic or metal wire carrier. They're also harder to clean if kitty has an accident! Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Cat Carrier is a 2-door model with a front and top opening for loading pets. It has ventilation on all sides and easy-open latches. Turning Carriers into a Safe Place Now you've chosen the perfect carrier, it must be transformed into that all-important safe space. Start by leaving it in a room that your cat frequents for a few days, up to a week, prior to the vet visit. This gives them a chance to claim it as part of their territory by marking it with their scent, reminding them that it's safe and familiar. Related post: What Are Cat Pheromones and How Do They Work? Place a blanket or towel inside for the cat to lie on, or use bedding that's already covered in its scent. If you have cat trees and shelves, you can wipe over the area with a cloth and use that as a familiar object. You could even use an old T-shirt because, of course, they'll recognise your scent too! Toys and treats will create positive associations and help to entice a reluctant kitty. Cat Calming Products For the big day, you might want to use a spritz of the various calming sprays that are available on the market. Pheromone-based sprays like Feliway or Pet Remedy's essential oil blends come highly recommended, all of which can be sprayed inside or over the carrier prior to the journey. Plug-in diffuser versions of these products are available, although effects aren't always immediate and may require several weeks to work. Herbal calming treats, supplements and spot-ons are also good options. Whatever you decide and whatever works best for your cat, there are plenty of products and brands to choose from. Always consult a vet before giving cats supplements. Related post: Beaphar Cat Calming Products: Diffuser, Spray, Spot-On, Collar and Tablets Zylkene Supplements contain alpha-casozepine, a natural milk protein with clinically proven calming effects. They help to reduce fear-based anxiety caused by challenging situations including changes to the home, travelling and fireworks. Travelling to the Vet Clinic Try to schedule your visit outside of rush hours to avoid getting stuck in traffic and minimising the time your cat has to spend in its carrier. Most clinics tend to be quieter in the morning, then you have the rest of the day to help cats settle down. You might want to choose a day when you don't have any other activities planned, such as visitors coming over. To reduce movement when travelling, hold the carrier level so your cat isn't sliding around and use a seatbelt to secure it while driving. Where a cat is crying, panting or generally stressed out, you can cover the carrier with a towel or blanket. Limiting visual stimulation may give them a chance to calm down and focus on themselves. Cats also appreciate height advantage, so if there's a table in the clinic's waiting area then do make use of it. Remember too that a frightened kitty may pee on its bedding, so take a spare towel just in case. Taking Multiple Cats for a Vet Visit If you have multiple cats that require a health check-up, it's advisable to take them together so they both smell the same upon their return. We don't want any unnecessary cases of non-recognition aggression, especially where fighting is already present. Each cat should have its own separate carrier. As touched on earlier, calming spot-ons should be used with caution in multi-cat homes. This is because they're applied topically and may change the smell of cats, thus escalating the situation. If it isn't possible to take cats to the clinic together or you're worried about them stressing each other out, keep them separated for 12-24 hours after the visit. This way, the remaining cat isn't being subjected to any foreign smells. Related post: How to Reintroduce Cats After a Fight in 6 Steps Lastly, cats take emotional cues from humans, so staying cool and collected is as beneficial for them as it is for you! Feliway Classic Spray contains feline pheromones that help to reduce common signs of stress. It can be used during major changes including renovations, travel and vet visits. Available in 20ml or 60ml bottles. Summary To make it even easier, use this brief rundown as a handy reminder for your next vet visit: Invest in a suitable carrier. Add familiar bedding, blankets or towels. Use calming sprays. Offer treats to rewards or entice. Secure the carrier with a seatbelt and minimise movement. Take multiple cats for check-ups together or separate for 12 hours minimum. Stay calm - you've got this! Mentioned Products Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Carrier Beaphar StressLess Herbal Calming Spot-On Have you been struggling with your own vet visits from hell? Let us know if this article helped in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: Understanding Redirected Aggression Other Causes of Redirected Aggression Signs of Aggression Cat to Human Aggression Redirected Aggression Between Household Cats More Separation and Reintroduction Other Tips Summary Redirected aggression is one of the most common types of feline aggression and can severely damage the bond with other cats and their human guardians. While many relationships can be rebuilt, it takes a lot of time, effort and patience and often results in owners rehoming their beloved furries. Finding a solution can be challenging depending on the cause and severity of aggression; and whether it's directed at other cats or humans. According to the ASPCA, aggression is the second most common feline behavioural problem seen by animal behaviourists. It's taken less seriously than dogs due to a cat's smaller size, but we should note that they have a lot more weapons, with claws as well as sharper teeth. These can cause deep puncture wounds, infections, abscesses and other complications. Understanding Redirected Aggression Imagine a scenario: Cat A is perched on its favourite windowsill observing the scenery when a stray cat strolls brazenly across the lawn. The sight of an intruder on its territory causes Cat A to leap to attention, puffing out its fur like a blowfish. At that moment, Cat B walks into the room and spots Cat A in a heightened state of arousal. It's easy to see how this might cause a terrible miscommunication, since Cat B thinks it's the source of Cat A's aggression and responds by acting defensively - possibly hissing or growling. Cat A, who's already irritated by the stray, decides to lash out at its housemate in a classic case of redirected aggression. This is just one scenario of many and typically happens when an overstimulated cat is unable to reach the source of the fright or whatever has triggered them. Since it can't respond to the stimulus, it displaces or redirects that behaviour onto the nearest available target. Pet Remedy Calming Diffuser contains a low concentration of valerian and essential oils to work with a cat's natural calming mechanisms when tackling stress and anxiety. Ideal for most pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents and birds. In simple terms, you could describe it as being in the wrong place at the wrong time. It's not unheard of for cats to attack their human guardians either - it's important to remember that this isn't a logical response, but survival instinct taking over. Sometimes there can be a delay between the initial arousal and the aggression, from minutes to hours, so the attack seems unprovoked. For example, your cat was startled by a loud noise and hid under the bed. Unaware of the noise, you find your cat some time later and try to pick it up or stroke it, only to receive a painful swipe in return. This is simply a reflex as your cat is overloaded with adrenaline and hasn't had enough time to calm down. Other Causes of Redirected Aggression Seeing or smelling an unfamiliar cat is a common cause of aggression in multi-cat households, but there are some other triggers to be mindful of. Sudden loud noises like fireworks, thunder or car engines popping. New environments such as moving house and renovations. Travelling, vet visits, etc. Introducing new pets, people or babies. Seeing or being approached by other animals, especially dogs. Illness or pain. Furthermore, I've had the privilege of connecting with many cat parents through this blog who've shared their own experiences with redirected aggression. Some of these include: Accident or trauma, whereby one cat suffers a minor injury and takes it out on another resident cat. Owner shouting at their cat and provoking an attack. Building work on a house, causing one cat to start attacking another. Fireworks scaring cats into growling or hissing at humans. PawHut 2-Tier Cat Tower stands at 91cm and features a large top bed with removable cushion and a middle perch. Thick sisal scratch post and particle board frame is sturdy for larger cats. In case you're new here, I have my own story regarding redirected aggression that you can read about here. Aggression looks very similar in cats regardless of the cause, so it's crucial to understand exactly what you're dealing with in order to find the best solution. Learn more about the different types of feline aggression in this detailed post: Aggressive Behaviour in Cats: 8 Types and Causes Signs of Aggression As touched on above, most of us can spot an angry feline whether we know what caused it or not. If two or more cats are tearing chunks out of each other then you know there's a problem, but some behaviours are more subtle. Recognising the signs through body language, postures and vocalisations can significantly reduce the chance of it escalating into a full-blown attack. Some common things to look out for include: Flattened or pinned back ears. Tense facial expression. Wide or slitted eyes. Direct stare with another cat. Fluffed up fur (piloerection). Low or lashing tail. Hunched, rigid posture. Arched back. Hissing, growling or yowling. Pacing. This is only a general list as there are some noticeable differences between defensive and offensive aggression that will tell you if an attack is intentional or the cat is simply frightened. For example, a dominant cat might stand with an arched back and fluffed up coat to make itself look bigger and more menacing. It could even charge at its opponent if it thinks it has no other choice. A submissive or defensive cat will be in a more crouched position with its head and tail tucked in. It does this to make itself look small and non-threatening in order to avoid an unwanted interaction - clever, right? If you're experiencing conflict between two or more cats, then determining if there's a bully and a victim will help a great deal when managing and, hopefully, solving the problem. If you spot any of the signs above then it's advisable to remove any other cats from the vicinity as quickly as possible. For more tips and advice, see this dedicated post: Cat Body Language: Signs of Aggressive Behaviour in Felines Daintry Cat Calming Spray combines feline pheromones with the natural soothing properties of cedarwood to reduce stress and anxiety. Use around the home or spray onto carriers prior to travelling. Aggression and Stress It's also easy for owners to confuse aggression-related signs and symptoms with those caused by stress, especially as the two go hand in hand. It's suggested that stress or anxiety is a cat's emotional response to a perceived threat, and aggression is the behavioural outcome. We have to remember that a cat's survival instinct is part of their evolutionary DNA, and the "fight-or-flight" mechanism can be the difference between life and death. Cats don't want to fight; it's usually a last resort. For redirected aggression to occur, they must be very stressed indeed. Learn more here: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment Cat to Human Aggression Cats will rarely attack humans if properly socialised, so when this behaviour happens out of the blue, there's likely to be an external stressor. Similar to the example scenario above, aggression can be redirected onto people if you disturbed the cat while it was stimulated or tried to approach it. Think about it this way: how many times have you snapped at someone when you're in a bad mood, worked up or flustered? You might not claw their eyes out (even if you really want to) but the fact remains that adrenaline can make us do some crazy and uncalled-for things. Beaphar Herbal Calming Treats contain hop flowers, Melissa and valerian which are known for their calming properties. They help to promote relaxation and reduce the symptoms of stress including scratching and excessive vocalisation. It's crucial to remain calm and not add to your cat's stress by shouting at or punishing them. This can escalate the situation, further damaging the cat-human bond and putting yourself at risk of physical injury. It can also cause cats to start associating the negative feeling with their owner, provoking more attacks as well as conflict between other resident cats. Here's what you should do to minimise distress: Unless you or your cat are in immediate danger, leave kitty alone to cool off in its own time. Trying to soothe it may cause further arousal and that's when a cat lashes out, if only to escape the situation. Ensure there are plenty of hiding places (cat beds, huts, boxes, underbed spaces, wardrobes, etc). Provide elevated surfaces like cat trees and shelves - think of the wilderness where they'd climb trees to keep a lookout and escape predators. Avoid actions that cats may consider as threatening: grabbing, yelling, making direct eye contact or shutting them inside a room (it's easier to remove yourself than a raging furball with claws!). Keep a towel handy so that if you need to restrain your cat, you're both protected. You can use whatever you have nearby to block an attack - a cushion, newspaper - preferably anything but your hands. If you're the target of repeated attacks, try to redirect their focus onto a toy to burn off excess energy. Make sure you use a long-handled toy like a teaser wand to keep a good distance between you and kitty. Reward positive behaviour with treats and ignore the negative - this means ending the play session if necessary. Always let the cat come to you and don't worry about losing your precious bond. If they want attention then you'll know about it - they are felines, after all! For a deeper understanding of a cat's body language and how they interact with other cats and humans, this post is essential reading: How to Read a Cat's Body Language, Behaviour and Communication Redirected Aggression Between Household Cats Redirected aggression, along with territorial aggression, is one of the most likely causes of fighting in domestic cats and commonly triggered by an unfamiliar feline. If you're lucky then it might be a one-off attack in response to the stimulus, but it can become a more long-standing issue, especially if the target cat retaliates. They may continue to fight whenever they see each other and no longer wish to share a territory. Health The first step when dealing with any kind of aggression, whether it's directed at other animals or humans, is to take your cat for a health check-up. I know - getting your cat to the clinic can be a challenge in itself - but if the solution is as simple as a course of medication, isn't it preferable to weeks or months of stress for the whole family? If you need more vet-related tips and tricks, I've got you covered: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress Establish the Trigger Assuming your cat doesn't have any medical issues, the next step is to establish the source of fear, stress, anxiety or frustration so you can remove it. This isn't always possible, since we can't simply ask them what the problem is, but if you're observant then they'll show you in their behaviour. If kitty keeps hanging around a particular window, door or cat flap then you should be on the lookout for a four-legged intruder. In which case, you might want to invest in a suitable cat deterrent or other precautions on the off-chance a stray is urine marking outside the house. If your cat acts skittish or hides whenever there's a noise that wouldn't ordinarily bother them, it could be trauma from a memory of a similar experience. They can be on alert for hours or days after a triggering incident, and I've witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of aggression between two sibling cats that had previously got along. In that time, I've learned that prevention is better than intervention. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Physical Conflict Cases of redirected aggression are almost impossible to predict or prevent, which is what makes it so difficult to solve, and we usually don't know there's a problem until the initial attack. Here are some things you can do when dealing with conflict: If cats are hissing, growling, yowling or staring at each other, place a piece of cardboard or a cushion between them to block off eye contact. My boys would do everything they could to see around the obstacle just to continue their disagreement, but it should give you a chance to usher them into separate rooms. Try distracting with a toy and leading cats away from each other - it helps if you have another person so you can work on both cats. If cats have engaged in a physical fight and you need to intervene, remain calm and don't try to separate them with your hands. Use a long-handled object such as a broom or throw a towel over them before handling. Keep offending cats separated until there's no visible tension. Confine cats indoors so you can monitor their behaviour and prevent aggression from extending beyond their domestic territory. The last thing you want is kitty getting into scraps with a neighbourhood rival and bringing more problems back to the home. Migipaws Interactive Feather Cat Toy features a rotating feather that randomly pops out of the holes at different time intervals. The toy starts when cats pass the infrared sensor and has an auto shut-off time of 5 minutes. When my cats were going through their aggressive phase, there were many instances where I had to break up physical altercations. I never advise using hands, but I often did because it was all I could think of in the moment. Fights can break out at any time, and if you're reading this then it's probably happened to you too. While they've never lashed out at me, I noticed that Drax started glaring at my hands and giving some serious vocal warnings. I took this as a firm "Back off, b*tch!" and I sure as hell paid attention. Observation, recognition and understanding go a long way in communicating with your cats, especially where aggression is present. You wouldn't get between two humans beating each other to a pulp, the only difference with cats is that a giant human looming over them increases the fear they're already experiencing. Visit As a last resort, rather than grabbing cats with your hands, stepping between them or using a leg might be less intimidating. When doing this, I found that my cats naturally backed away from me so one could run off and I was able to prevent the other from chasing; but this really depends on the temperament of your cats. As far as standard practice goes, never use body parts! You can find more advice in this dedicated post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Separation and Reintroduction If the fighting persists, you may have to start the separation and reintroduction process. This is a proven strategy recommended by experts and used by animal behaviourists all over the world. There are several stages that cats must go through: Separation Cats are separated for a minimum of 24-48 hours with no visual contact. Cats are rotated around different rooms or areas of the home so they can swap scents and reacclimatise to each other in a neutral setting. Reintroduction Feed cats on either side of a door or baby gate covered with a blanket to maintain the no-visuals rule. Begin by leaving bowls several feet away from the door or barrier and gradually move them closer over the following days. Start allowing visual contact by opening the door a crack or raising the blanket by an inch. If cats display aggressive behaviour such as hissing or swatting, go back a step and continue the process until they're comfortable seeing and eating next to each other. Finally, remove the barrier and use toys, play or treats to distract the attention away from the other cat. This helps to build positive associations and aids the bonding process. For a more in-depth guide where I break down each stage and share my own personal experiences, head over to this post: How to Reintroduce Cats After a Fight in 6 Steps From my correspondence with other parents, the separation process lasts an average of two weeks, up to two months. This is by no means a set timeframe and each situation will be unique to your cats. In my case, it was closer to six months before they could be left alone unsupervised. Other Tips Territory It's not unusual for cats to become more territorial as tension builds in the home. To reduce competition, you want to ensure there are enough resources for the number of cats you have: food and water bowls, litter trays, beds, toys, etc. They should be spread around the home, and you can add extra territory with cat trees, wall-mounted shelving, ramps and other kitty furniture. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Shop Pet Furniture → Doing this will also ensure that you're prepared for any unexpected outbreaks, so you already have a space set up for each individual cat. For example, we know that Bonfire Night and New Year attract a lot of fireworks. Prepare a safe room in advance and invest in a calming diffuser or spray like Pet Remedy, which is suitable for most domestic pets. If your cats are extra skittish, you might consider separating them prior to a stressful event so that if one is triggered, they won't have any opportunities to fight. Related post: How to Keep Cats Safe and Calm During Fireworks Feliway Friends Plug-in Diffuser mimics the pheromones that a mother cat releases to her kittens to help reduce tension and conflict in multi-cat households. Recommended by vets and behaviourists. Calming Products There are lots of products on the market that claim to reduce aggression, many of which are discussed or reviewed on this blog. As touched on above, pheromone diffusers and calming prays replicate the chemicals that cats release during scent marking to create familiarity, reassurance and safety within their environment. They target most stress-related behaviours including scratching, urine spraying, overgrooming, conflict and tension. Calming supplements made from natural, drug-free ingredients are a good short-term option and have less undesirable side effects than traditional medications, but you should always consult with a vet for the most suitable treatment. Read my review of two well-known brands here: Calming Supplement Reviews: ZylKene and YuMOVE Calming Care for Cats (Tried and Tested) Herbal calming treats can be used as an alternative to supplements. You might also have seen collars and spot-ons that release essential oils, such as valerian which is known for its calming properties. Take caution when using anything that changes the smell of your cat, as this could cause them to be more aggressive towards one another. Summary There are no guarantees that damage can be reversed, even if cats were bonded for many years before the aggression started. I understand and empathise with how crushing this is for parents, and I'm always here for a chat if you need it! Your vet is also a valuable source of advice and will be able to refer you to a qualified behaviourist, if you decide to go down that route. In the event that cats can no longer tolerate living together, rehoming may be considered as an option; but there are lots of practical steps you can take to avoid this. You know your situation - and your cats - better than anyone. Related post: Are Your Cats Fighting? Top 5 Tips Based on Real Experiences Do's Don'ts ✓ Seek veterinary advice. ✕ Shout at or punish cats. ✓ Recognise signs of aggression. ✕ Grab or separate cats with hands. ✓ Leave cats to cool off in their own time. ✕ Attempt to soothe an angry cat. ✓ Establish the trigger or source of aggression and remove it (if possible). ✕ Force cats to interact with each other or share a space if they don't want to. ✓ Use distraction techniques with toys and reward positive behaviour. ✓ Provide hiding places and elevated surfaces. ✓ Separate cats if necessary. Mentioned Products Yaheetech Cat Tree Tower Bojafa Teaser Wand Venture Extra Tall Baby Gate Have you experienced redirected aggression towards yourself or another household cat? Get in touch or share your story in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: Why You Should Get Cats Neutered or Spayed Benefits of Desexing Cats What Age Should Cats Be Desexed? Sterilisation Procedure More Risks of Sterilisation Breeding Cats Summary Why You Should Get Cats Neutered or Spayed The subject of neutering (male) or spaying (female) cats, otherwise known as desexing, can be one of huge debate; nevertheless, it must be addressed. Sterilisation, when done properly, can have many short and long-term health benefits for cats and the feline population as a whole. There are an estimated 480 million stray cats in the world. The UK alone makes up nine million, with a feral population of one-and-a-half million. These are some tragic numbers and responsibility starts at home. It can also be dangerous for females to go through pregnancy before reaching maturity, so there's a lot to consider whether you plan on breeding your cats or not. This article isn't intended to alter anyone's beliefs or opinions, but simply to educate so you can make an informed decision on the health and wellbeing of your kitty companions. Benefits of Desexing Cats Desexing your cat not only prevents unwanted pregnancy but lowers the risk of some serious health problems. In males it can prevent testicular and prostate cancers. Spaying females under 6 months of age (and before their first heat cycle) prevents cancer of the ovaries and uterus; reduces the risk of mammary cancer and stops uterine infections. It also eliminates behaviours that occur when they're in heat, such as yowling and crying. Some people believe that female cats should have at least one litter of kittens before being spayed, but there are no proven benefits to this theory. In fact, sterilisation prevents pregnancy-related issues - which you should discuss with a vet if you are considering breeding your cat. Visit The loss of foetuses can result in a potentially fatal infection if they remain in the uterus. Difficult births (known as dystocia) while rare, may require veterinary intervention such as an emergency c-section to save both the mother and her kittens. There's also the possibility that a mother or "queen" could reject her babies if they're sick, weak or physically deformed. This is so she can prioritise the healthy kittens, as in the wild it comes down to a literal case of survival of the fittest. It's not unusual for a queen to kill the weakest members of her litter, so if you notice any signs of rejection then it's crucial to remove the kitten and get it checked over by a vet to rule out health issues. Desexing can prevent both males and females from urine spraying, but males are more likely to exhibit other territorial behaviours including aggression towards other cats and humans. A neutered male is less likely to wander away from home and get into fights or traffic accidents, which in itself puts them at a higher risk of injury. Related post: Aggressive Behaviour in Cats: 8 Types and Causes Cats are well-equipped to deal with predators in the wild, but chunks of metal travelling at high speeds are a different threat entirely. We cannot compare the domestic cat to wild cats in their natural habitat. As street cats live in close proximity to one another, they can also contract potentially fatal diseases like feline aids and the feline leukaemia virus; and parasites. This can be risky for outdoor cats if they roam away from home or into other territories and neighbourhoods. The fact of the matter is that hundreds of thousands of unwanted cats and kittens are euthanised all over the world every single year. Don't contribute to this devastating statistic by adding more to the death toll. Blue Cross has lots of information on the benefits of sterilisation here: Neutering Your Cat What Age Should Cats Be Desexed? The ideal age for desexing cats is a topic of debate in the veterinary world. It's generally advised that kittens should be desexed before they reach sexual maturity at around 3-4 months old, but the procedure is safe to carry out from 8-10 weeks (or when they reach a weight of 1kg). The earlier, the better, as it helps to prevent the development of antisocial behaviours and can aid harmony in multi-cat households. While a female cat can get pregnant as early as four months old, this poses a serious risk to her health as she's not fully developed. Carrying kittens uses up vital nutrients needed for her own growth. Feliway Friends Plug-In Diffuser mimics the pheromones that a mother cat releases to her kittens to help reduce tension and conflict in multi-cat households. Recommended by vets and behaviourists. More research is needed to examine the different ages in feline sterilisation. In 2016, a veterinary task force was put together under the Marian's Dream Foundation and did exactly that. This led to the establishment of the Feline Fix by Five campaign. Given the known benefits and lack of evidence for harm related to the age at which the procedure is carried out, advocators are calling for both vets and associations to recommend desexing cats by five months of age. This could potentially bump up the costs for cat parents even more, especially in England, UK, since microchipping became a legal requirement as of June 2024. Nevertheless, the aim is that increasing the number of sterilised cats will lead to less unplanned breeding, and thus reduce the number of strays and ferals that are sentenced to lives of suffering and anguish. Sterilisation Procedure Spaying a female cat involves removal of the ovaries and uterus through a small incision while she's under general anaesthetic. Aftercare mainly consists of keeping an eye on the scar in case it appears swollen, weeping or bleeding. Depending on the type of stitches used, cats may try to pull at them. Neutering or castrating a male is also carried out under general anaesthetic and involves removing the testes through a small incision in the scrotum. There's usually no need for stitches as the incision heals very quickly and it's a more straightforward procedure than spaying. Most cats and kittens will recover in no time at all, in fact my boys were back to swinging off the curtains as soon as they got home! I've had lots of pets desexed, including a few rabbits, and never had any post-surgery issues. Pet Remedy Calming Spray provides a natural way of tackling stress and anxiety in cats, dogs and other small animals. It contains a blend of valerian and essential oils and can be sprayed on bedding, blankets and carriers prior to a vet visit. Your vet will be able to address any concerns you have, and you may be instructed to keep cats indoors for a few days. Depending on the vet's policies, female cats might stay at the clinic overnight for observation or have to wear a cone collar so they don't pick at stitches. A post-surgery check-up is also recommended. Aftercare usually consists of keeping cats hydrated by offering plenty of water and making sure they have a normal appetite. Pain medication or antibiotics might also be given, but the most important thing is quiet and rest. Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress Risks of Sterilisation According to the Veterinary Task Force on Feline Sterilisation, there is currently no evidence to support an increased risk of complications or long-term health issues with sterilisation carried out on cats aged 6-14 weeks or older than 16 weeks. The main concerns amongst vets are the risks associated with performing surgery on young patients and recovery from anaesthetic. The best person to advise owners is a registered vet, but some of these risks (although rare) include: The possibility of hypothermia due to low body fat. An inability to break down drugs as quickly as adult patients. Susceptibility to dehydration. Brain damage from lack of oxygen. An experienced vet, the correct preparation and continuous monitoring will allow for as smooth a procedure as possible. As with anything related to surgery, it's never going to be completely risk free. Breeding Cats Breeding cats is not a decision that should be taken lightly, and your first point of call should always be a vet or reputable breeder who can guide you through the process. Some factors to consider include: Making sure Mum and Dad are healthy with no known diseases or genetic conditions that could be passed onto their offspring. Choosing cats that are of good temperaments, especially females that are able to care for their litter. Cats with behavioural problems may reject kittens. Introducing a female cat to a male during her fertile period and having a good understanding of the mating process. Taking into account a cat's age and ensuring they're fully grown and an ideal weight for a successful pregnancy. Preventing overbreeding and knowing if or how many times a female has given birth previously. While breeding cats can be an exciting and rewarding process, it's not all about producing a litter of cute kittens. You must prioritise the welfare and happiness of cats before mating, during the pregnancy and after the eventual birth. This means being prepared for any complications, such as a queen rejecting her kittens, and having a backup plan in place. Newborns are unable to fend for themselves, so it'll be down to you to care for them or make suitable fostering arrangements. 2-in-1 Cat Basket made from wear-resistant cattail weaving with removeable plush cushions. This can be used as a comfy sleeping area or scratching basket and is very spacious for larger cats. Consider too the financial burdens, from initial health screenings and veterinary care to providing resources such as food and bedding for potentially several other cats. Even if you plan on having kittens adopted, they should remain with Mum for the first few months. Perhaps the main question you should ask yourself is: why do I want to breed cats in the first place? The purpose of selling kittens off for quick cash is as poor a reason as leaving your unsterilised cats to roam free, without care or consideration for the consequences. Responsible ownership is crucial, and if you're not ready or willing to be a grandparent then make that appointment - it's not as scary as it sounds! Related post: 11 Essential Tips Every New Cat Owners Should Know Summary While the moral or ethical arguments for desexing cats are debatable, the benefits far outweigh the risks. To recap, sterilisation has the following advantages: Prevents reproductive cancers (affects roughly 32% of cats). Reduces the risk of mammary cancer in females, of which 85% are malignant. Prevents uterine infections. Eliminates crying and yowling when in heat. Reduces antisocial behaviours such as urine spraying and territorial aggression. Helps to stop males from wandering or roaming. Avoids dangers associated with giving birth too young. Less chance of unwanted litters. Promotes a stress-free multi-cat household. Improves the relationship between cats and humans. As well as benefitting a cat's physical health and emotional wellbeing, getting cats desexed has a much larger impact on communities where the feral population is out of control. We may not see it as much in the Western world, particularly in the UK with help from animal welfare organisations, government funding and veterinary care; but that doesn't mean the issue doesn't exist. Related post: Trap-Neuter-Return Programs for Stray or Feral Cats: How You Can Help The following statistics, while shocking, speak for themselves: There are almost as many stray cats in the world as there are domestic. Approximately 230,000 cats get hit by cars in the UK every year - that's about 630 per day! It's estimated that around 360,000 cats go missing or are stolen annually in the UK, making them the second most commonly stolen pet after dogs. While sterilising cats won't protect them from traffic accidents or predatory humans, it does lower the chance of males roaming and females looking for a mate when in heat. Even if you plan on keeping your cats indoors, with so many health benefits, the minor risks of surgery are worth the long-term gains. Are you for or against the sterilisation of domestic and stray cats? What age were your kitties desexed and how was the procedure? Share your experiences in the comments to help those who might be considering surgery.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. 6 Steps for Reintroducing Cats After a Fight: Separation Site Swapping Reintroduction ​Distraction Food Play Also in this article: When Do I Need to Separate Cats? More How Long Should I Keep Cats Apart After a Fight? Why Is Scent Important to Cats? My Home Isn't Practical for Site Swapping, Is There Anything Else I Can Do? How Do I Know When It's Safe to Reintroduce Cats? How to Create Positive Associations Why Food and Play Are Important When Introducing or Reintroducing Cats Allowing Visual Contact How to Use Treats to Distract Cats from Fighting How Do I Safely Reintroduce Cats? How Long Will It Take My Cats to Get Along? Should I Discipline Cats for Fighting? How to Break Up a Cat Fight Long-Term Solutions for Aggression Between Cats Summary Cat fights are one of the most stressful and complex issues for a pet parent to deal with, and before long it's not just your cats at war but your entire household. Reintroducing cats after a fight or helping them to get along requires patience, persistence and near constant encouragement; but the good news is that it can be achieved with the right strategy. Armed with my own personal experiences, I'm sharing everything you need to know about how to successfully separate and reintroduce cats. Whether it's a one-off incident or a more long-standing problem, I'll carry you over those hurdles to the best of my ability. The more kitties we can help together, the better! Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting 1. Separation When Do I Need to Separate Cats? The separation and reintroduction process can apply to cats that are already acquainted with each other or when bringing new pets into the household. Sometimes it can simply be a case of one cat going for a vet visit or being away for a period of time, thus it becomes a case of non-recognition or redirected aggression. Cats are armed with fangs and claws; they're born hunters which means they're designed to kill. Leaving cats to "fight it out" amongst themselves could be deemed unwise and irresponsible as a guardian. If aggression is physical - that is, full-contact fights with a potential to cause injury - then separation is necessary to build new and positive associations with each other. Whether you're reintroducing cats after a fight or welcoming a new kitten, puppy or baby - both scenarios follow the same principles, whereby we’re treating them as if they’re meeting for the first time. How Long Should I Keep Cats Apart After a Fight? ​ Any separation period will give cats a chance to cool off and de-stress - something we humans can resonate with, too. Some cats just need a 10-minute break, but where aggression is persistent or long-lasting then it’s recommended to keep them separated for 24-48 hours. In extreme cases, it can take weeks rather than days. Again, you know your cats better than anyone. ​ If you find that the reintroduction phase isn’t going well then you may be pushing your cats too fast, in which case try extending the separation time. I know it can feel deflating going back to square one, but you’re not going to resolve things any quicker by forcing cats into situations they aren’t ready for. In fact, this could damage their relationship further. There should be NO visual contact during separation. 2. Site Swapping ​ Why Is Scent Important to Cats? Site swapping involves rotating cats around different rooms or areas of the home, if possible. This allows them to spread their scents and maintain a sense of familiarity with other cats, even when they're not in direct contact. The same applies when introducing new cats to the home, it’s all part of the preparation. Any foreign smells are going to alert resident cats to a potential invader, so it’s essential that we create a safe and comfortable environment for that initial meeting; after all, first impressions are everything! We know cats are territorial and we know they rely on scent as a valuable form of communication, hence why they should never see each other before being acquainted by smell. My Home Isn't Practical for Site Swapping, Is There Anything Else I Can Do? If the setup of your home doesn’t allow for site rotations then you can swap things like blankets, bedding and toys or rub a towel over one cat and place it in the other cat’s space, paying special attention to the face, mouth and chin where those important scent glands lie. If your cats like to be brushed, you can use the same comb on both cats so their scents are on each other. Some buildings may be more problematic than others, such as studio apartments which generally don’t have doors. In this case, you could look into room dividers or baby gates that slot into hallways and staircases - remembering not to stack one on top of the other as I’ve seen some people do. This is dangerous for both animals and humans! For the living room, I used the Venture Q-Fix Extra Tall Baby Gate which my boys have never jumped over, but they're not particularly energetic cats and would be too scared to try. If you're concerned about your kitties attempting the great escape, you can get creative with materials such as cardboard and Perspex. With some DIY skills you might be able to construct your own barrier, which is what we ended up doing for the stairs - Victorian houses don’t mix well with modern gadgets. A simple made-to-measure wooden frame and chicken wire worked well. Yes it was ugly, but still one of the most helpful aids when reintroducing the boys. The main advantage of a gate over a door is allowing visual contact later on. In the meantime, it can be covered with a blanket, curtain, towel or any kind of fabric that blocks off sight. If your cats are anything like mine and decide to pull up the corners to create spyholes, a bit of tape should do the trick. ​ I cannot stress enough the importance of no visual contact in those early stages. Cats are curious creatures and this is a great opportunity to bring that out. Just what, or who, is on the other side of that barrier? Is it a friend or foe? Do we have a potential playmate? Let your kitties know that good stuff happens whenever they’re together, which brings us to the next phase. Visit 3. Reintroduction If you want your cats to do anything for you then, as with any living creature, food is one of the best motivators. If you’ve read My Story then you’ll know I faced the additional problem of switching Drax to urinary food, not to mention that both of my boys were grazers, preferring small but regular snacks throughout the day instead of set mealtimes. Knowing what I know now, if I could go back in time and not free feed my boys then it’s the first thing I’d change, as this was a wasted opportunity! Related post: How to Change a Cat's Food with 10 Tasty Tips How Do I Know When It's Safe to Reintroduce Cats? If cats have been separated after fighting, wait until they're visibly calmer as this indicates that any adrenaline has left the system. They shouldn't be hissing, growling, tensed up, hunched, cowering, hiding or pacing around. You should be able to pet cats as usual and they'll be comfortable with any new scents. This may mean inspecting blankets and bedding - or on the contrary, ignoring them! If you witness any swatting or hissing at objects that smell of another cat then they're not ready for the next stage. Likewise, if they display any aggressive or fearful behaviour when hearing cats in a different room, extend the separation time by another 12 hours. 2-in-1 Cat Basket made from wear-resistant cattail weaving with removeable plush cushions. Can be used as a comfy sleeping area or scratching basket. Very spacious for larger cats and easy to clean. 4. Distraction ​ How to Create Positive Associations Positive associations or "reinforcements" are an effective way to train cats by using rewards to encourage desired behaviours. Usually this would be whatever best motivates your cat: for example, offering its favourite treat whenever it uses a scratch post instead of clawing your carpet. Kitty will learn to associate this behaviour with something positive - i.e., the treat - so now it loves using its scratch post. Timing is critical here: the reward must be given immediately before a cat's attention wavers to the next thing. If your cat isn't motivated by food then you can use petting, playtime or any kind of positive attention to place emphasis on the behaviour. A word of warning: this is also true for negative associations if, for example, you shout at a cat for fighting then it'll associate that fear with the other cat. Why Food and Play Are Important When Introducing or Reintroducing Cats Food and play are the easiest forms of distraction for an aggressive kitty, and it also helps to build those positive associations. Both are driven by one basic instinct: hunting. In the wild, cats have to catch their prey before they can eat it. A hungry cat is going to be more interested in food than fighting, which takes up energy in itself. I’ve witnessed my boys stop growling at each other for a snack, just to pick up their argument afterwards! Meals are the best time to begin introductions or reintroductions, starting with feeding cats simultaneously either side of your chosen barrier. To make a cat extra hungry, you can tire them out with play. I can hear you now: “But, Rach, my cats won’t play!” ​ Your cats WILL play, and this post on how to play with cats gives all the pointers and advice you need. ​ I can tell you, however, that I had the same issue. My boys liked to pick and choose their playtimes which, of course, would always be when the other was sleeping. That’s if they wanted to play at all, which 90% of the time was a hard no. Even if cats won't play together, just creating a positive environment where they can observe each other in a neutral setting is a step in the right direction. They'll learn to be in the same space without the focus being on each other (or fighting) and once they're comfortable, you can work on extending play to include both cats. 5. Food ​ Maintaining the no-visual rule, you can begin feeding your cats either side of the barrier. Start by leaving a distance of six to eight feet each way, or however much space you can allow. If all goes well, i.e., cats finish their bowls without any signs of tension or fear, gradually reduce that distance over the following meals. Our aim is to get both cats to a point where they’re eating comfortably right next to the barrier. Whether it takes a day or a week will depend on your cats, but try not to get hung up on timing. What’s important is creating that positive association and reassurance that no one has to compete for vital resources. Allowing Visual Contact Upon successful completion of this step, it’s time for some visual contact. When I say some, I’m talking minimal to begin with. No whipping off that sheet or you risk all of your hard work being undone. Raise the sight blocker by an inch or two, or if you’re using a door then open it a crack - barely wide enough for kitty to squeeze its paw through. ​ This is a good chance to test the waters, so if their attention wavers or they start showing signs of aggression, calmly direct their focus back to the food. An extra pair of hands may be helpful so both cats are being supervised, but remember too that a bit of hissing is perfectly natural. Your cats are warning each other to stay back so everyone knows their place - whether those places are acknowledged is another matter! Again, the process should be repeated for as long as necessary, gradually raising the blanket until there’s full visual contact and eventually *gasp* no barrier at all. If you’re not quite there yet or, like me, food just isn’t tempting enough, do not fear because there are plenty of other distractions to try. How to Use Treats to Distract Cats from Fighting With neither of my boys being big eaters, and a blatant disregard for change, I focused more on treats; although this comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. If you start throwing treats at a hissing cat then it’s going to continue being a hissing cat. Don’t send mixed messages by rewarding aggression, especially when it’s directed at a fellow housemate. Treats should be offered in the presence of both cats and to reinforce good behaviour. I say “good” but cats don’t perceive aggression as bad (or good). It’s part of their survival instinct, whether triggered by an external stressor or as we see in certain hormonal and neurological conditions. Dreamies Cat Snacks are crunchy on the outside with a creamy filling. Flavours include chicken, cheese, duck, beef, salmon, turkey, tuna and catnip. Free from additives and less than 2kcal per treat! Treats were especially useful when managing Drax, as the main aggressor or “chaser”. For example, I’d use his favourite Dreamies treat biscuits as a distraction while Simba either walked past him or crossed from one side of a room to the other. He’d gobble up the treats while keeping a beady eye on his brother, which I’m sure was as terrifying for Simba as it was for me - the referee. During these supervised meetings, if Drax could resist the temptation to lunge at Simba then he was given another treat, along with petting and praise from Mum. I’ll say it again: attention can be a reward! Eventually, Drax began to ignore his brother - or just grew bored - but either way it didn’t solve the larger issue. As with those kitchen counter surfers, they’ll just wait until no one’s around to stop them and do it anyway. It was, however, a step in the right direction; and a short relief from chasing two screaming cats around the house. 6. Play ​ To pick up on another form of distraction, you can use play in conjunction with treats. All of those pounces and leaps consume energy, and you want to encourage as much of this positive behaviour as your kitty can manage. The more they exhaust on play, the less they’ll have for fighting. It’s important to play with cats separately as well as together, this way they get your undivided attention and a bonding session with other cats. We don’t want anyone feeling left out! A laser pointer or feather wand is perfect for controlling play, especially during separation as you can direct cats towards the barrier and have them running and chasing either side of it. If you have a second person to entertain both cats, use whatever toys they prefer to keep that momentum going. I had a barrier positioned so that one cat had run of the stairs for extra exercise, but hallways and landings work just as well. Once they’re all tired out, now would be an ideal feeding time. Related post: 12 Types of Cat Toys and Games for All Cats to Play Tyasoleil 4-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy inspires natural hunting instincts with hide-and-seek feathers, flying feathers and a laser beam. Includes 3 speed settings and is USB rechargeable. All of these steps have the additional purpose of getting cats into a routine so they know, and hopefully anticipate, what’s coming. Building excitement can certainly be difficult for lazy cats, but it really works. To make things more awkward, my boys favoured completely different toys. Simba was all mice and feather wands; Drax liked to chase crinkle balls and a random pompom. Interactive toys can be a godsend, just push a button and it does the work for you. Even if cats aren’t interested in playing, movement and sound are distraction enough. For playtime on a budget, check out these quick and easy DIY cat toys. Keep a blanket handy for any outbursts and block off sight if necessary. This should be enough to snap them out of it or, worst-case scenario, usher them into different rooms. Remember, allowing some time to cool off and start over is perfectly fine. Best-case scenario, all goes well and it’s time to ditch the barrier completely. This is undoubtedly the most challenging step, not just for you but for your cats. This should only be attempted if cats can share a space with full visual contact, no aggression and most importantly, no death stares! If you can’t distract them with a barrier then you certainly won’t be able to do it without one. Related post: Aggression vs Play: How to Tell If Cats Are Playing or Fighting Bojafa Feather Wand comes in a 15-piece set with 2 wands and 13 changeable teasers that include natural feathers, worms and fish. Wands are retractable and can reach up to 96cm. How Do I Safely Reintroduce Cats? Stick to short supervised meetings limited to one room and gradually extend that area over time. It’s only natural to want to give kitties the benefit of the doubt, but that means you’re working on your timeframe instead of theirs. If things go downhill after removing the barrier then keep it in place, even if cats appear to be getting along. Don't expect too much because, chances are, your cats are still working things out. Sometimes you need to give them the freedom to do this. We also need to think of victim cats that can be prone to anxiety and depression. Simba was so on edge that he’d react to the slightest movement or vocalisation from Drax, even when it was harmless. We don’t want to normalise living in fear as this can cause as much psychological damage as a fight can cause physical injury. Your scaredy-cat needs assurance that it isn’t going to be ambushed on its way to the litter tray, and bullies need a positive channel for their energy. The more Simba’s confidence grew, the more he stopped reacting to Drax’s bullying. The less he ran, the less reason Drax had to chase. I’ve spoken previously about cat fights looking and sounding worse than they are, but that doesn’t lessen the stress that can build up over time. Timing is everything here, especially when it comes to cats reacquainting with one another. If cats do engage in a hissing war upon reintroduction and are unable to work things out within a couple of minutes, they probably aren’t going to - at least, not for the meantime. Prevention is better than intervention, so the best course of action is to defuse the situation with a separation and reset. Recovery should be a lot quicker than if a full-contact fight was to ensue. This should help to reduce tension until episodes become less in frequency and intensity. In extreme cases I’ve seen people use crates, carriers and harnesses to secure an offending cat. This allows a safe introduction where cats can share a space without the risk of an attack. They should be rotated so each has a chance to inspect the other. For example, if you have a victim cat then place it inside a carrier while the other cat is left loose, or keep it on a harness if it shows any aggression towards the victim. Remember to familiarise them with any new enclosures just as you would when preparing them for a vet visit. Related post: How to Harness Train Cats for Walking on a Leash Safely Feliway Classic Spray contains pheromones that help to reduce common signs of stress. It can be used during major changes including renovations, travel and vet visits. Available in 20ml or 60ml bottles that are suitable for use at home or on the go. How Long Will It Take My Cats to Get Along? As mentioned frequently in this article alone, cats have their own timeline and we shouldn't put any expectations on them to ever get along. If you don't like the person you're living with then you have the option of moving out or engaging in a civilised discussion about how to deal with any problems. You have your own room, your own food and the freedom to come and go as you please. Now imagine that person bursting into your private space, helping themselves to your food, sleeping in your bed - maybe even slapping you over the head whenever you walk past. How uncomfortable and frustrating does it feel? How angry would you get over time? If we're going to expect animals to put up with things that we ourselves would never tolerate, the least we can do is allow them to express those feelings and make necessary changes - such as adding more territory. The wonderful thing about animals is that they don't make enemies out of pettiness or dislike; jealousy, greed or any of those things that humans are guilty of. They're simply fighting for their survival and their territory. It's hard to predict how things will play out and, the truth is, your cats probably don’t know either. Depending on the nature of the aggression and how deep it runs, they may temporarily “forget” they’re friends, for which it’s our job to remind them. Trust has to be earned, and whether that takes weeks or months is down to your cats. One day they might just decide to make up, which I’ve witnessed countless times with my own. The separation and reintroduction process can be as long or as short as it needs to be, and success comes in many forms. If cats aren't trying to kill each other as soon as they enter a room, that's progress! Any kind of positive interaction, however brief, is a sign that you're on the right track. Should I Discipline Cats for Fighting? Yelling at or punishing cats will exacerbate the situation and create negative associations with both yourself and other cats. Rewarding good behaviour is far more effective in the long-run and will encourage kitties to do more of it. We shouldn't be treating cats like dogs, who want nothing more than to please their owners. Frankly, cats couldn't give a damn about pleasing anyone but themselves! Telling a cat "no" is likely to be as detrimental as yelling, as your cat won't have a clue what you're saying; but it will associate the word with a negative experience. Cats can and do remember words, as I can attest to with my own boys who have a very select vocabulary. Words related to food, toys, treats and other things that peak their interest in a positive way stick in their little brains like glue. That's not to say they understand the word itself, but they can comprehend other things like tone of voice and mannerisms. In short, don't underestimate your kitties. “Discipline” can consist of something as simple as ignoring your cat. Our furry friends crave attention, whether they show it or not; and encouraging negative behaviour is a mistake made by many, including myself. How many times have you lifted your cat off the kitchen counter? If you think you’re the one in control then think again, because you’re probably doing exactly what he or she wants you to do. Attention, good or bad, provides no deterrent for a cat. How to Break Up a Cat Fight When breaking up fights, a swift and calm separation is all that's necessary. If cats haven't engaged in a physical altercation but are showing signs of aggression, using a sight blocker is recommended. Keep a piece of cardboard handy such as a flattened box, or a cushion to place between cats. This is safer for everyone, especially where cat-to-human aggression is present. It's also less intrusive than wading in or grabbing, which could scare cats into reacting. Sometimes this may be enough to distract them but, if not, then usher cats into different rooms until tension has eased and ensure there are plenty of hiding places. PawHut 2-Tier Cat Tower stands at 91cm and features a large top bed with removable cushion and a middle perch. Thick sisal scratch post and particle board frame is sturdy for larger cats. Where cats are having a full-contact fight, don't use your hands to separate them. This is easier said than done in the heat of the moment, but try using a long-handled object such as a broom or throwing a blanket over one or both cats. They should be kept apart in this instance and left to cool off in their own time, as trying to soothe an aggressive kitty can be dangerous to your hands and body. Ignore cats for at least 10 minutes - I know, it feels like a lifetime - but the more emphasis you place on any particular behaviour, the more they're likely to remember it. Providing plenty of hiding places is a more effective way to help your kitty feel safe. Related post: Are Your Cats Fighting? Top 5 Tips Based on Real Experiences Long-term Solutions for Aggression Between Cats While it's possible for cats to return to a normal, healthy relationship, we must be prepared to make some long-term changes to a cat's routine and/or environment. Once aggression has erupted, it's more likely to happen again in the future - but this isn't always the case. Separation and reintroduction can be a solution for many but, for others, it's part of a longer process to restoring peace and harmony within the home. When managing feline aggression, the most important things to focus on are eliminating competition for resources by offering more food and water stations; sleeping areas; litter trays and toys. You can also add more territory such as cat trees and stands, shelving and window hammocks. Placement is important, and you can find everything you need to know in this post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Feliway Friends Plug-In Diffuser mimics the pheromones that a mother cat releases to her kittens to help reduce tension and conflict in multi-cat households. Recommended by vets and behaviourists. For reducing anxiety and stress, plug-in diffusers target a cat's pheromone receptors to bring feelings of safety and comfort within their environment. Calming sprays, such as Pet Remedy, contain valerian which is known for its relaxing properties; as well as wipes, collars and herbal treats. Medications for anxiety can be discussed with your local vet. Related post: Calming Supplement Reviews: ZylKene and YuMOVE Calming Care for Cats (Tried and Tested) Shop Pet Supplements → Remember, cats may never be best friends but toleration and avoidance are an achievement, too. Some areas of the home can make this difficult, particularly narrow spaces like doorways and halls. If possible, block off any problem zones or give cats a timeout from each other with a mini separation. This allows them to explore and play without having to worry about potential confrontations. If your home isn't big enough then take it in turns by shutting one cat in a room, similar to site swapping. This will help to burn off energy and limit feelings of frustration from inactivity. Summary Where aggression is physical and persistent, separate cats for 24-48 hours in the first instance. Use site swapping or rotate items such as blankets and bedding so cats can familiarise themselves with new scents. Install a suitable barrier to introduce or reintroduce cats with no visual contact. Start feeding cats either side of the barrier until they're comfortable up close with no signs of tension or fear. Gradually allow visual contact using play, food or treats to distract cats. Remove the barrier and introduce cats under supervision. There should be no hissing or growling. Stick to short meetings and monitor cats' behaviour, slowly extending the area over time. Shop Pet Furniture → Ensure plenty of resources are available to eliminate competition (beds, food stations, litter trays, etc). Provide a stimulating environment with toys, scratch posts and exercise. Add more territory such as cat trees, shelves, stands, ramps and window hammocks to help cats stay out of each other's ways. Recognise signs of aggression and separate if necessary. Remain calm and reinforce positive behaviour. Give cats the time and space they need! If, like me, you’re constantly beating yourself up over what you did wrong, not doing enough, doing too much - remember, we’re only human. These steps can always be repeated and once you’ve got a process or routine that works for your cats, stick to it. Be patient, be consistent and allow an adequate amount of time for any tension or adrenaline to leave the system before reintroducing cats. That goes for you, too! Cats will pick up on your emotional state, be it through the tone of your voice, gestures or their own super senses. That being said, there are many other factors to consider: your own mental health, as well as that of your cat’s. There’s no defeat in finding your kitties a happy home elsewhere. Discover more helpful strategies in this personal account of how I successfully reintroduced my cats and the top 10 products I used. Mentioned Products Venture Q-Fix Extra Tall Baby Gate Cakkone 7-in-1 Cat Laser Pointer FEANDREA Large Cat Tree Furjoy Cat Cave Are you currently going through the separation and reintroduction process? Have you developed any strategies of your own? Share your experiences in the comments to help and advise other pet parents.