How to tell if your cats get along with each other – six key behaviours to look for.
If you share your home with more than one cat, you may have wondered if they really like each other or if they simply tolerate having the other one around.
Cats are usually solitary creatures, preferring to be the only moggy in their mansion, but sometimes they can form a special bond with a fellow furry friend.
How do you tell if your cats are friends? Here are six signs to look out for…
1. They head-butt each other
Don’t worry, not in an aggressive way! By rubbing their heads and cheeks against those of their friends, cats leave behind a scent that helps remind them that this moggy shares their group scent and can be trusted. They do this with their human friends too, as well as the occasional item of furniture or toy to make sure their environment smells familiar.
2. They groom each other
Feline friends will often help to keep each other clean by licking their pal’s fur. Let’s face it, you’d have to be pretty close to get that personal with your best mate!
3. They snooze together
Only true feline friends will be happy to share their precious sleeping space with another. They could simply touch paws, or have a full spooning session, just make sure they each have their own beds to retreat to for if they’d prefer to stretch out and be alone.
4. They touch noses
Instead of a cheery wave and a ‘hello’, moggy mates greet each other by raising their tail in the air and touching noses. Cat owners who’ve experienced a cold cat nose to the face will know that they sometimes greet humans in this way too.
5. They hang out together
Whether playing with their toys, relaxing in the garden, or staring at you while you eat your dinner, cats with a close bond usually like to engage in their favourite activities together. Unlike us though, they prefer to eat and drink alone, so make sure their bowls are kept separate.
6. They have a rough and tumble
Don’t be alarmed if your cats engage in a bit of kitty wrestling with each other. So long as they have their claws in and they’re getting to take turns chasing each other, then it’s just a friendly play-flight that helps them burn off some energy.
Even if your kitties are best pals, they will still like some time alone every so often. Make sure they each have their own food bowl, scratch post and litter tray, plus one spare, and that they have plenty of places to hide and get away from their feline companion if they choose to.
Still not sure whether your cats are friends or foes? Take a look at our animation to find out more:
For more information about cat behaviour, visit https://www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/cat-behaviour
