Examples of aggressions between cats
How can we describe aggression between cats? Here are a few subtle situations that describe passive aggression:
- When we notice that a cat (aggressor) blocks access to food bowls, litter boxes, the comfy couch in the house, etc.
- When a cat (aggressor) stares at another (victim). To look at each other is one thing, but to stare is another story. It may seem like nothing, but it is threatening and intimidating to be stared at constantly.
- When one of the cats (victim) goes out of their way to avoid the other cat (aggressor). This is a reliable sign that one is uncomfortable in the presence of the other.
- When a cat (victim) stays apart, isolated from the other cats in the household. This is one of the ways a victimized cat keeps away from their aggressor.
Even if cats are masters at being subtle, some can be openly aggressive and are highly visible and vocal. This what we call active aggression:
- When a cat (aggressor) pursues another (victim). It may look like they are playing, but surprisingly it is always the same one that is being tagged! If they are playing, they will switch roles. Also, it is important to make sure that the cat being chased doesn’t show signs of distress.
- Sometimes we witness a fight between cats, or notice the signs later. Some fights can leave wounds or bite marks. But even if they don’t, they remain stressful for the felines involved.