Q: We have two sister cats at home who fight a lot, most of the time it's harmless, but should we be concerned?
Q: 1. We have two sister cats at home who fight a lot, most of the time it's harmless, but occasionally one of them will bite the other and they will growl and hiss until we separate them. They both wash each other and are very affectionate so we know they're ok, but should we be concerned?
A: What you describe is not abnormal behaviour. Cats do "play fight", and sometimes it can look very rough, but if they are not drawing blood then it is unlikely to be too serious.
This could also be dominance behaviour, especially if it is always the same one who is the aggressor. Do these fights occur over something specific, for example over food, toys, or to get your attention?
If your cats are truly 100% indoors, boredom and/or frustration with a confined space may also be a part of the problem. Try to ensue that they have plenty of interactive toys, scratching posts, and hiding places, and try to play games with them (hide and seek, chasing toys or penlights) when you can. You should rotate the toys around before they get too used to them.
I hope this gives you some ideas, and if you have further problems consider speaking to your vet about a behaviour consult.
If you have a question for Dr. Dalya simply send it through to drdalya@petside.co.uk
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