Inter-cat aggression is one of the most common behavior problems the presenter sees in her behavior consulting business. This distressing problem can occur with cats that are new to one another, as well as with siblings that have always been “best friends.” This session will discuss the various causes of inter-cat aggression between cats who share the same household (note: It will not cover aggression between outdoor cats). We will discuss the identification of problems, prevention strategies, and client recommendations. The session will also cover signs of conflict, types of aggression, the difference between play and aggression, and environmental considerations for cats in conflict.
The presenter will also review the extensive protocol she implements to manage and resolve inter-cat aggression, including the use of scent, pheromones, space sharing, enrichment, desensitization, and counter conditioning. Inter-cat agression is an issue that often resolves at a glacial pace, so the session will also discuss how to manage client expectations and provide support during the process.
