Having more than one cat to share a home with can be a lively and loving experience. It can, nonetheless, also cause rivalry and fighting among your cats. Cats are territorial animals themselves, and rivalry in gaining the favor of owners or victuals can cause jealousy.
If you are having cat jealousy at home with over one cat, this book will explain to you why, warn you of the signs.
Why Do Cats Get Jealous?
Understanding Feline Jealousy
Cats become jealous if they perceive that their attention or resources are being compromised. This comes when there is a new household member or a new pet, one of the cats receives additional attention, or the environment is changed in the home. Cats are not emotional as human beings but respond as a result of perceived competition.
Causes of Jealousy in Cats
1. Introduction of a new kitten or a new cat
When a new cat returns home, resident cats will feel invaded and can be jealous and defensive.
2. New Baby or Family Member at Home
Cats who are used to being the center of attention may get jealous when a new baby or other pet begins to divert time and attention from them.
3. Unequal Resource or Attention Distribution
Jealousy is caused by the fact that one cat is getting more treats, petting or attention, and playtime than the other cats. Also, when food bowls, toys, or resting areas are lacking.
4. Environmental or Routine Changes
Moving house, furniture changing places, or even slight routine changes upset cats and make them insecure about their territory, and jealousy occurs.
What Are the Signs of Jealousy in Cats?
Changes in Behavior
1. Fights with Other Cats
A jealous cat will swat, hiss, or chase another cat in a bid to dominate.
2. Over-Seeking of Attention
A jealous cat will trail you more than is required, meow excessively, or attempt to drive away another cat when you are displaying attention.
3. Marking and Territoriality
Spraying urine, blocking food bowls, and occupying resting places are some of the ways by which jealous cats attempt to dominate.
4. Avoidance and Withdrawal
Other cats will behave jealously by withdrawing, staying away from you, or refusing to eat.
How Do You Prevent and Handle Cat Jealousy?
1. Provide Equal Attention and Affection
Cats are very sensitive and notice whether you are showing favorite treatment to one of them. Make sure you provide your attention evenly by:
- Petting and hugging the cats equally
- Playing separately with each cat in order to build positive association
- Jealousy signals detection and their cessation
2. Provide Adequate Resources to All Cats
Food and Water Bowls
Every cat should have its own food and water bowls to prevent food aggression.
Litter Boxes
There is generally a guideline that indicates one litter box per cat, but one additional prevents them from fighting.
Beds, Toys, and Scratching Posts
Cats need their own safe spaces. Some beds, climbing equipment, and scratching posts can be provided to relieve stress.
3. Add New Cats Slowly
If getting a new cat, adding it too quickly will foster jealousy and hostility.
Step 1: Use a Safe Room
Put the new cat in a separate room with its water, food, and litter box.
Step 2: Scent Exchange
Swap the resident and new cats’ beds so that they get used to the other’s scent.
Step 3: Supervised Interactions
Introduce supervised contact after several days. Play and treats should make them associate with positive emotions.
Step 4: Observe and Adapt
Transition for some cats is not as gradual as others. If they are hostile, again, isolate and introduce them slowly.
4. Adhere to a Regimen
Cats are also creatures of habit, and too much change will stress them out. Try to:
- Adhere to a regular daily eating schedule
- Adopt a regular exercise and play schedule
- Have major changes in the surroundings only when unavoidable
Quality Cat Products Must Make Your Cats’ Lives Better?
BASTET (Tianjin) Pet Products Co., Ltd. is an excellent high-quality cat products company. Its high-quality cat litter products—bentonite, tofu, crystal, cassava, and crush bentonite cat litter—are qualified to offer high-quality odor controlling and absorption function for the convenience and cleanness of your cats.
Why BASTET Cat Litter?
- 99% dust-free to prevent respiratory complications
- Quick-clumping for easy cleaning
- Eco-friendly products like tofu and cassava litter
- Excellent odor control to keep your house smelling clean
Final Thoughts: How to Keep the Peace in a Multi-Cat Home
Prevention of jealousy among cats requires patience, consistency, and proper knowledge of feline behavior. Showing the same level of attention, giving enough resources, creating routine, and rewarding good behavior enables you to have all your cats residing harmoniously.
