12 Signs Your Cats Don’t Like Each Other

Cats are complex creatures, and while some form strong bonds, others barely tolerate each other. Unlike dogs, cats don’t always make their feelings obvious, but subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs can reveal if your feline duo isn’t exactly best friends.  

If you’ve introduced a new cat to your home or noticed tension between your resident felines, it’s important to understand the warning signs. Here are 12 indicators that your cats may not be getting along as well as you hoped.  

Constant Staring Contests  

If your cats lock eyes and refuse to look away, they might be engaged in a silent power struggle. A fixed, unblinking stare is often a sign of dominance, tension, or impending conflict.  

Hissing and Growling  

Hissing and growling are clear indicators of feline displeasure. While occasional grumbles can be normal, persistent vocal warnings suggest your cats are struggling to accept each other’s presence.  

Frequent Swatting or Biting  

A playful swat is one thing, but if your cats frequently swipe at or bite each other with ears flattened and fur raised, it’s a sign of hostility rather than friendly roughhousing.  

One Cat Avoids the Other 

If one cat constantly leaves the room when the other enters or hides under furniture, it’s likely trying to avoid confrontation. Avoidance is a common sign of stress and unresolved tension.  

Blocking Access to Resources  

Cats who don’t get along may guard food bowls, litter boxes, or prime lounging spots. If one cat prevents the other from accessing essentials, there’s an underlying issue that needs addressing.  

Tail Twitching or Lashing  

A slowly twitching tail can signal irritation, while a violently lashing tail often indicates frustration or aggression. If your cats exhibit this behavior around each other, they’re not on friendly terms.  

Frequent Chasing (Not in a Playful Way)  

Some cats enjoy playful chases, but if one cat is always running away in fear while the other relentlessly pursues, it’s a sign of bullying rather than fun.  

Flattened Ears and Puffed-Up Fur  

When a cat flattens its ears or puffs up its fur, it’s trying to make itself look bigger or preparing for a confrontation. If your cats frequently display this posture, tensions are running high.  

Unexplained Litter Box Issues  

A cat that suddenly starts avoiding the litter box may be stressed by an aggressive housemate. Anxiety can lead to inappropriate elimination as a way to claim territory.  

Sleeping Separately  

While some cats are naturally independent, bonded cats often nap together. If your cats refuse to share the same space or sleep in opposite corners of the house, their relationship may be strained.  

Over-Grooming Due to Stress  

If one cat is excessively grooming itself—especially to the point of hair loss—it could be experiencing stress from a tense feline relationship. Anxiety-driven grooming is a subtle but serious sign of discord.  

Fights That Escalate Quickly 

Occasional disagreements happen, but if your cats frequently engage in full-blown fights with clawing, yowling, and chasing, they are not coexisting peacefully and need intervention.  

Conclusion

Understanding feline body language and behavior can help prevent conflict between your cats. If they show signs of tension, patience, gradual introductions, and positive reinforcement can improve their relationship. While some cats may never be best friends, peaceful coexistence is always possible!