Cats are naturally solitary so conflict can occur when they鈥檙e sharing a home. As owners it is important to offer the right home environment and resources to promote a harmonious multi-cat household.
The best way to encourage positive relationships in a multi-cat household is by having the right number of resources in the best locations so each cat has access to everything they need, without having to come into contact with each other.
So what do these resources include?
View the how to create a harmonious multi-cat household here.
FOOD STATIONS
Each cat should ideally have their own feeding station, separate from other cats. For instance, one feeding station can be on the kitchen floor, with another on the counter. Opposite ends of the kitchen work well too. Your cats will want to be able to see all around them while they eat, so they can spot any potential threats.
WATER SOURCES
Provide several water sources around the home, including outside and on different levels if you have a multi-storey home. Water bowls should be placed away from food bowls, as this will encourage your cats to drink more.
LITTER TRAYS
The rule of thumb for litter trays is one tray per cat, plus one. This means for a household of three cats, you should provide four litter trays. Make sure these are located separate from each other in private locations so your cats can toilet undisturbed. Take a look at our advice on creating cat friendly toileting facilities for more details.
SCRATCHING POSTS
Scratching posts not only help your cats keep their claws in good condition but they are also a good spot for scent marking. Placing several around the home allows your cats to establish their territories and help them feel more secure. A good location for scratching posts is at entry and exit points of rooms. This allows your cats to establish territories, helping them feel more secure.
PHEROMONE DIFFUSERS
Installing pheromone diffusers in rooms frequented by your cats can help them feel more settled in their environment. Some pheromone diffusers, such as Feliway Friends, are specifically created for multi-cat households.
HIDING OPTIONS AND PERCHES
Offering several hiding options, such as enclosed cat beds, cardboard boxes, as well as high-up perches like tall cat trees or the top of a wardrobe, gives your cats the opportunity to establish their own resting places. These are also useful in providing a safe area for them to retreat from any stressful situations, especially if conflict arises.
OUTSIDE ACCESS
Installing a cat-flap means your cats can control when they access the garden, and they鈥檒l be able to remove themselves quickly from any situations involving conflict. This gives them even more space from each other and more territory to exhibit natural behaviours.
SOCIAL INTERACTION AND PLAY
Make sure you dedicate individual time and attention to each cat when they are keen to interact, including play which is a vital part of mental stimulation.
