Did you know there are over 93 million cats in the United States??? Over one-third, 33% of U.S. households own at least one cat. Over half, 56% of cat owners own more than one cat. With that being said, there are certain things that us humans can do to help our cats get along together.
Here are 10 important tips that will definitely help you if you have a multi-cat household. By the way, these tips apply if you have indoor or outdoor cats.
1. Patience is key. Cats can take up to one year to bond with each other.
2. Have all your cats spayed or neutered to help reduce behavioral problems.
3. If a cat fight breaks out, never separate the cats by hand. Distract them by making a loud noise, then place them in difffernt locations.
4. Ensure that your cats burn excess energy through exercise. Provide numerous toys for each cat and spend some time each day playing with them.
5. Most cats do not like a lot of noise and commotion. Give them a quiet space/area to be able to escape and reduce stress.
6. Spread litter boxes throughout your house and provide at least one box per cat.
7.”Vertical space" is very important in the feline world. Cats love to climb things. They have incredible balance. If you really want your cats to be happy, install kitty condos and cat trees throughout your house.
8. Establish a routine and feed all your cats at one time. Never give treats to one cat and not another. Provide separate food and water bowls for each cat.
9. Learn and understand feline body language. Study your cat's eyes, ears and vocal patterns. Notice their different moods. Even the position and the way your cat's tail moves means something.
Create an environment where your cats are happy and calm...not angry, nervous or stressed out.
10. Try to ensure that each cat's needs are met, and accept each cat as an individual family member. This is the most important step in developing and maintaining a peaceful multi-cat household.
Best Wishes,
Connie Edwards
