At All About Cats Veterinary Hospital, our Las Vegas veterinarian is committed to the health and wellness of your feline friend. Offering quality care in a calm, stress-free setting, we are the area's one-stop shop for all feline veterinary care services.
One of the more common questions cat owners ask our veterinary team is "what is causing aggression between cats in my household, and what can I do about it?"
Causes of Aggression in Cats
There are many potential causes of aggression in cats, with territorial aggression being among the most common. This is especially common in situations where a new cat has been introduced into a household with one or more existing cats. The "new" cat may be seen as a threat to the territory, and aggression or fighting may result.
Aggression is also relatively common in cats who have not yet been spayed or neutered, so if you have recently adopted kittens who have suddenly become aggressive towards one another, it may be time to talk to our vet about scheduling that spay or neuter surgery.
Of course, some cats simply don't get along because they have different personalities, for example, a playful, rambunctious cat may be seen as a nuisance to a cat who prefers peace and quiet.
Managing Aggression Between Cats
One of the best ways to manage and reduce aggression between cats is to give them separate spaces within your home. Make sure each cat has access to his or her own food, water, and litter box. This can cut down on a lot of territorial aggression. When you see your cats fighting or become hostile towards one another, interrupt the event by clapping your hands or otherwise distracting them from the behavior. Likewise, be sure to reward positive behavior with treats or toys, as this will help to reinforce the behavior over time.
When to Call Our Las Vegas Vet
If your cats are still showing strong signs of aggression towards one another, it may be time to call our Las Vegas vet for a consultation. You can reach All About Cats Veterinary Hospital by giving us a call at (702) 257-3222.