How to tell if your cat is playing or fighting

Cats naturally engage in play fighting or pretend battles. However, it can sometimes be difficult to tell whether a cat is playing or truly fighting. To figure this out, pay close attention to their body language and the nature of the encounter. When playing, cats will switch places with each other. If they are fighting, you can intervene by making a loud noise or placing an object between them.

Listen for growling or hissing. Typically, cats don't make many noises when playing. If they do, it's usually just meowing rather than growling or hissing. If you hear persistent growling or hissing, it's likely that the cats are fighting.

Observe the cat's ears. During play, a cat's ears are usually facing forward or standing upright, or slightly turned back. However, if the cat's ears are pointed backward, it is likely that they are fighting.

Observe the cat's claws. While playing, cats typically retract their claws, although they might occasionally extend them without intending harm. If you see a cat using its claws to attack, they are likely fighting.

Observe the biting behavior. Cats rarely bite while playing, and their bites don't cause pain. However, if you notice a cat biting and causing pain to its opponent, it may be a sign they are fighting, not playing. For instance, if one of the cats cries out in pain and hisses or growls, they are fighting. During play, cats generally take turns biting each other. If one cat dominates by biting and the other tries to escape, it's a fight, not play.

Observe the cat's body posture. When playing, a cat's body usually faces forward. In contrast, if the cats are fighting, you will see one leaning backward while striking with its paws.

Observe the cat's fur. When fighting, cats puff up their fur to appear larger. If you see the fur on the cat's tail or body, or both, standing up, it is a clear sign that they are fighting, not playing.

The rotation. When pretending to fight, cats take turns changing positions. This means both cats will alternate between being on top and underneath.

• Similarly, when cats chase each other, they take turns chasing instead of one always running while the other chases.

Observe the speed of the fight. During mock battles, cats stop and start repeatedly. This gives them time to rest and switch places. In real fights, cats move quickly and don’t stop until one of them wins.

Observe the cats' behavior after the fight. If you are unsure whether the cats are playing or genuinely fighting, you can monitor their actions after the conflict. After a real fight, both cats typically avoid each other, or at least one cat will steer clear of the other.

• If they were just play fighting, however, the cats will show friendly behavior afterward, resuming normal activities, and may even sleep or lie together.

Create a loud noise. You can slam the door, clap your hands, shout, blow a whistle, bang pots or any other objects together to make a loud sound. The idea is that the noise will startle the cats and stop them from fighting.

Use a barrier between them. A barrier can be helpful as it prevents the cats from seeing each other. You can use a cushion, a piece of cardboard, or anything else that can block their view. Once the fight has paused, you should separate the cats into different rooms so they can calm down.

• Allow the cats to slowly reintroduce themselves to each other to avoid future aggression.
• Consider setting up a small barrier between the cats so they can get reacquainted and interact without being able to attack each other.

Don't use your hands to stop the fight. Trying to break up the fight with your hands may result in scratches or bites from one or both cats. They may even lunge at your face.

• Additionally, one of the cats might redirect its aggression towards you, changing its behavior toward you even after the fight is over.
• If you are bitten, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Cat bites can easily become infected with pasteurella bacteria and lead to cellulitis. Early treatment is the best way to prevent complications from these infections.

Prevent future fights. Make sure the cats don’t feel the need to compete for resources. Each cat should have its own litter box, food bowl, bed, sunny spot, and toys in different areas of the house. Additionally, spaying or neutering the cats can help reduce fighting.

• Reward the cats with treats or praise when they interact peacefully with each other.

• Unfamiliar cats or those with a history of hostility are more likely to fight each other.