The natural lifestyle of cats and how they get along with each other
Unlike dogs or humans, who form clear bonds and interdependent relationships when living together, cats are inherently territorial and reclusive. In the wild, each cat maintains a certain distance from other individuals and only shares space with other members of its species when there is enough food and safe places to sleep.
Research shows that cats do not form a cohesive and unified group of friends in the home, but rather separate territories and schedules. When multiple cats live in a home, they often share the same room or hallway, with one using the space in the morning and the other in the evening, thus avoiding direct face-to-face contact.
Hidden hostility and persistent stress
Because cats try to avoid fights and physical tension whenever possible, they express their displeasure very quietly. Studies have shown that hidden hostility is common in multi-cat homes, where the stronger or more assertive cat quietly blocks the other cat's path.
This blocking can be as simple as one cat sitting in a doorway, on the stairs, or near the litter box and looking at the other. The other cat perceives this as a direct prohibition and decides to retreat. This constant state of tension creates chronic anxiety in the weaker cat, which often manifests itself in urination problems, peeing past the litter box, or unexplained bladder infections.
How to ensure a peaceful living environment for every cat?
Animal behavior experts recommend following certain principles in a multi-cat household to prevent fights and ensure the well-being of all pets.
Place enough essential resources in different parts of the home. There should always be one more litter box, food and water bowl, and scratching post than there are cats in the household.
Separate food and water bowls from each other and from other cats' eating areas. Your cat wants to eat in a peaceful environment without having to fear the proximity or attack of another cat.
Create enough vertical space in the rooms, such as high shelves, climbing trees, and nests. Being higher up gives the cat a sense of security and the opportunity to safely observe other family members from above.
Make sure that each cat has the opportunity to completely separate and be on their own if they wish, without another cat blocking their path.
From sources
The article is based on research published by researchers in animal behavior and animal welfare at the University of Copenhagen and the University of Bristol.
