It’s not uncommon for cats to fight even after living together for a long period, and there are several reasons this might be happening. Cats are territorial animals by nature, and despite being housed together, they may still feel the need to establish dominance or control over certain areas or resources in the home, such as food, resting spots, or attention from their owner. Even after a year, they may still be working out their hierarchy and boundaries.
Additionally, changes in their environment, like new furniture, people, or pets, can trigger stress and anxiety, which may manifest in aggression. Cats can also get overstimulated during playtime or even while grooming each other, leading to unintentional fights. It’s also possible that their personalities just don’t mesh well, and while some cats can live harmoniously together, others might never fully get along.
Another factor could be health-related; if one of your cats is in pain or feeling unwell, they might act out aggressively toward the other cat. Monitoring their behavior and consulting with a veterinarian could help rule out any medical issues.
To reduce fighting, you can try providing separate feeding stations, litter boxes, and safe spaces for each cat to retreat to when they need a break. Gradually reintroducing them using positive reinforcement can also help ease tensions. Patience and a consistent approach to managing their environment can often lead to a more peaceful coexistence.
