Companion Animals

Companion Animal Welfare and Inter-Cat Conflict Resolution

Inter-cat conflict in multi-cat households is a significant welfare problem affecting millions of cats, with effective interventions now available.

Key Facts

An estimated 30-40% of multi-cat households experience significant inter-cat conflict
Conflict causes chronic stress, house soiling, and injury in affected cats
Resource provision (one more litter box, food bowl, and sleeping space than cats) reduces conflict
Pheromone diffusers reduce tension in multi-cat households in controlled trials
Gradual introduction protocols for new cats significantly reduce long-term conflict

Welfare Considerations

Inter-cat conflict causes chronic stress and suffering. Resource provision and appropriate introductions are preventive measures every multi-cat household should implement.

What You Can Do

Provide one more resource than the number of cats in multi-cat households
Use pheromone diffusers in areas of conflict
Consult a feline behaviourist for persistent inter-cat aggression