Multi-cat households are common but social stress between cats is a major welfare problem that is frequently underrecognized. Evidence-based management reduces chronic stress.
Multi-cat household stress is one of the most underrecognized welfare problems in companion animals. Owners who see their cats in the same room or not actively fighting often assume peaceful coexistence, when subtle social tension - blocking access to resources, staring, and avoidance - may be causing chronic stress for subordinate cats. The welfare consequences of chronic inter-cat stress include FLUTD flares, inappropriate elimination, overgrooming, and suppressed immune function. The welfare-positive approach to multi-cat households involves honest assessment of inter-cat relationships through observing social tension indicators, appropriate resource provision, and managing the household environment to minimize forced social proximity.