Can’t We All Just Get Along? How to Deal With Fighting Pets

It’s not uncommon for responsible pet owners and animal lovers to adopt again (and again and again!). More than 40% of people live in multi-pet households, but that doesn’t mean everyone gets along all the time. Cohabitation can be challenging for well-meaning pet owners, and fighting pets can turn any dream home into a nightmare.

Friend or Foe?

The vision you might have had of endless cuddling with your pets quickly vanishes with the occurrence of one unforeseen slight. Gone is the harmony you hoped for – or worked hard to attain – and in its place are competitive, aggressive, fighting pets. Feeling backed into a corner? Let the team at Leon Valley help!

Cat Secrets

Cats are territorial by nature, and if they don’t grow up together, it can be a challenge navigating a multi-pet household. Scratching, spraying, or blatant fighting may be ways in which they deal with each other. Try mitigating this with the following tactics:

• Provide each cat with everything he or she needs. Never expect your cats to share food, water bowls, beds, or litter boxes.
• Create numerous hang out spots so your cats never have to cross paths if they don’t feel like it.
• Spay or neuter to decrease aggression and possible marking.
• Stop fighting pets immediately with a loud noise or “friendly” reminder with a squirt of water.
• Try not to pick favorites. Spend time with each cat independently. Over time, try to play or snuggle with more than one.

Dog Truths

While dogs are pack animals, we can’t assume all dogs automatically get along with each other. In homes with fighting pets, consider the following tips:

• Make sure your pets receive enough daily exercise. This reduces energy and promotes a sense of relaxation at home.
• Engage in playtime or training independent of your other pets. This is especially true for dogs that have a stronger bond with an owner instead of another dog.
• Be sure to crate train. This is an excellent option when you need to safely separate fighting pets.

Crazy Cats and Dogs

There are few things greater than a home that has cats and dogs living together in harmony. However, when they fight, it can be utterly disastrous. For the best results, try the following:

• Obedience training is critical to keep your dog from chasing your cat. While your frisky feline may sometimes instigate the fight, your dog should understand your commands, protecting everyone from injury.
• Prohibit your dog from interfering with your cat’s litter, food, and cozy resting places.
• Maintain a high level of activity for both pets.

Don’t Allow Fighting Pets

For the health and wellness of every pet in your care, please do not accept fighting as the status quo. There are many other ways to address problems, and the team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital is here to help.

Please contact us with any questions or concerns. Best of luck!