My Cat Hates Other Cats – What Can I Do?

Feb 26, 2025 | Cats & Kittens | 2 comments

Written by: Alex Ramsey. Explore our editorial process.

If your cat hisses, growls, or swipes at other felines, you are not alone. Many cats struggle with social interactions, especially when another cat enters their territory. The good news is that you can improve their relationship with patience and the right approach or at least create a peaceful coexistence.

We will help you understand why your cat dislikes other cats and what steps you can take to improve the situation.

Why Does My Cat Hate Other Cats? 🤔

Cats have unique personalities, and their dislike for other felines often comes down to a few key reasons.

🚨 Reason 🔍 Explanation
Lack of Socialization If a cat was not around other felines as a kitten, they may struggle to interact with them later in life.
Territorial Instincts Cats see their home as their territory, and another cat may feel like a threat.
Negative Past Experiences A fight or a stressful encounter with another cat can lead to long-term fear or aggression.
Personality Differences Some cats are naturally independent and prefer solitude.
Resource Competition If food, litter boxes, or resting spots are limited, cats may become aggressive toward each other.
Medical Issues Pain, illness, or hormonal imbalances can make a cat irritable and less tolerant of others.

Now that the causes are clear, let’s look at solutions that can help your cat feel more comfortable around others.

friendship between two cats

How to Help Your Cat Get Along with Others 🐾

If you are introducing a new cat or trying to resolve ongoing tension, a slow and structured approach is essential.

1. Gradual Introductions 🕰️

  • 🐾 Keep the new cat in a separate room at first. Allow both cats to hear and smell each other without physical contact.
  • 🐾 Swap bedding or use a cloth to transfer scents between them.
  • 🐾 Slowly introduce short, supervised meetings. If hissing or growling occurs, separate them and try again later.

2. Create Positive Associations 🍗🎾

  • ✅ Give treats when they are calm near each other.
  • ✅ Feed them on opposite sides of a closed door so they connect each other’s presence with mealtime.
  • ✅ Use interactive play to help reduce stress and encourage bonding.

3. Avoid Competition Over Resources 🏡

  • ✔️ Provide separate food and water bowls for each cat.
  • ✔️ Ensure there are multiple litter boxes (one per cat, plus an extra).
  • ✔️ Give them individual resting areas to avoid conflicts.

If your cat hates sharing space, a separate bed might help! 😼 Do cats need beds? Maybe not, but having their own cozy spot could make them less territorial—and give you back your pillow! 🛏️😹

4. Understand Cat Body Language 👀

Pay attention to how your cat reacts to others.

  • 🚫 Signs of Aggression: Hissing, growling, flattened ears, swishing tail, puffed-up fur.
  • Signs of Tolerance: Slow blinking, relaxed tail, sniffing noses, or calmly ignoring each other.

If your cat displays aggressive behavior, separate them and reintroduce them gradually.

5. Use Calming Aids 🕯️

  • 🌿 Feliway diffusers mimic natural cat pheromones to create a relaxed environment.
  • 🎵 Soft background music can help soothe anxious cats.
  • 💊 Vet-approved calming supplements may be beneficial for high-stress situations.
  • 🐾 To further ease tension, make cat paw massage a part of your routine—gentle pressure can help your cat feel more relaxed and secure.

6. When to Consult a Professional 📞🐾

If aggression is severe, ongoing, or results in injuries, it is best to seek help from a veterinarian or cat behaviorist. Health issues, anxiety, or past trauma may require expert guidance.

cat hits cat

What If My Cat Prefers to Be Alone? 🤷‍♂️

Some cats simply do not enjoy the company of other felines. If your cat remains unhappy despite your efforts, it may be best to let them be the only cat in the home. Not all cats need companionship, and some thrive in a single-cat environment.

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Final Thoughts 💭

Helping a cat adjust to another feline takes time, patience, and the right strategy. While some cats eventually become friends, others may only tolerate each other. The goal is a peaceful, stress-free home where both cats feel comfortable.

Does your cat hate other cats? Share your experience in the comments!

 

American paws divider

🐱 FAQs

Can a cat’s dislike for other cats change over time?

Yes, with gradual exposure and positive reinforcement, some cats may become more tolerant of other felines, but others may always prefer to be alone.

How do I know if my cat is just playing or actually fighting?

Play fights include loose body movements and no serious injuries, while real fights involve growling, hissing, and aggressive biting or scratching.

What if my cat is fine with some cats but not others?

Cats have preferences just like humans. Compatibility depends on personality, age, and past experiences.

How do I stop my cat from stalking or ambushing the other cat?

Redirect the behavior with toys, puzzle feeders, and scheduled playtime to prevent frustration and aggression.

Is it better to adopt two cats at the same time?

Yes, especially if they are siblings or already bonded. Introducing two new cats at once can be easier than adding a new cat to an existing cat’s territory.

Does your cat hate other cats? Share your experience in the comments!

Comments

2 Comments

  1. Alison

    just like their owner 😂

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