Multi-cat households frequently generate chronic social stress and territorial conflict that significantly reduces welfare for one or more cats involved.
Multi-cat conflict is among the most widespread but least recognised welfare problems in companion animal ownership. Cats in conflict rarely engage in obvious fighting — subtle dominance behaviours including blocking access to resources, staring, and positional intimidation are more common. The affected cat may not appear obviously distressed but experiences chronic stress that elevates cortisol, suppresses immune function, and reduces quality of life. Owners often misinterpret the absence of overt fighting as evidence that cats are getting along. Welfare assessment tools for multi-cat households that identify covert conflict are valuable clinical tools for feline veterinary medicine.