Why cats flip from cuddles to battles

Why cats flip from cuddles to battles


They were once best buddies but now can’t stand the sight of each other. These aren’t teenagers, but cats that go from cuddling to fighting overnight.

This sudden change can start with a change in routine. A cat might spy a strange animal outside and redirect her hostility toward a feline friend. Sometimes, cats coming of age try to claim their own turf, threatening companion cats in the process.

When the fearful cat runs off, the aggressive one is likely to take chase, prompting the fraidy cat to run off again. Your job is to break that vicious cycle.

Separate the cats, then look for medical sources of pain or discomfort that could be causing the cat to lash out. Make sure each cat gets her own space —including separate bowls, litter boxes and toys — before devising ways to rekindle the friendship.

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