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My male cats are fighting viciously. How do I stop cat aggression?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 6 lbs

I have 2 cats -- brothers -- 4 years old. They hang out together all the time, and "roughhouse" with each other regularly, which I take to be normal. But sometimes, usually at night, they will wake us up with vicious, screaming fights, leaving clumps of fur around, growling, etc. we try to break it up with clapping or a spray bottle, and usually they are fine the next morning. Last night it happened again, but today it has continued all day. Aggressor cat won't let his brother come upstairs.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Susan England-Foster

Veterinarian

Published on August 20th, 2017

It sounds like you have a behavioral issue in the house. One of the cats is trying to be dominate over the other. I would make sure you have 1 more litter box than cat. Also have multiple areas to place food and water. This will eliminate competition over those things. I would try feliway in the rooms the cats spend the most time. This is a pheromone to help with stress. Increase exercise as best you can. They do make toys you can hid treats an the cat has to get them out. Also hid toys around the house at night so Mo and Francis have something to do. IF that does not work it is always best to have a good exam by a vet to make sure the aggression is not due to illness or pain. thanks for using pet coach

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on February 24th, 2020
Sometimes this behavior can be related to boredom, frustration, anxiety or a desire to play roughly. There are a few things you can do which may help. Try enriching the environment. Here is a great article about cat's instinctual needs:
https://www.petcoach.co/article/why-every-cat-needs-a-place-to-climb/

Use a Feliway diffuser, set aside 30 minutes a day for vigorous play (really get him moving) and/or switch the food to Royal Canin Calm. Provide a stand or resting place by a window so he can look outside.

You may also try clicker training him for positive behavior. Here is a link about training cats:
https://www.petcoach.co/article/can-i-train-my-cat/

Most cats response best to combination therapy. The veterinarian can also prescribe medications which can help with bad behaviors. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on January 11th, 2020
If you have multiple cats, separate them for a few days. Gradually, reintroduce them. A pheromone product, such as Feliway spray or plug in diffusers, may help to decrease any aggression. Providing additional litter boxes, beds, toys and food bowls may help to decrease aggression and resource protection.
If the aggression is directed towards you, again separate the cat until he settles down. Survey the area for any negative stimuli. Reduce or eliminate any if found. The use of pheromone products mentioned above may help. If the behavior persists, consider an exam with your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist. There may be medications that may help. It is also possible the doctor may diagnose illness or injury. Either can result in behavioral changes.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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