How to tell the difference between play fighting and real fighting?
The following might be indicators that the fighting is real and not just spirited play: Bared teeth Read More
Is my cat angry or playing?
Ramon O'Hara
2025-05-23 09:49:41
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: 15
They chase each other around and pounce on each other, so I always think it's play because they don't fear or attack one another.
Dalton Hickle
2025-05-23 06:29:58
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: 22
When cats are playing, their bodies are usually relaxed, they may roll around on the ground, and their movements are smooth. Cats may produce chirping or trilling noises when they are playing, which are cheerful noises indicating that they are having fun. Many cats hold their ears forward, upright, or backward during a friendly play session. In playful interactions, the cats may take turns chasing each other or rolling around. Playful interactions tend to be shorter in duration, while fights can last longer and can escalate quickly. When cats are playing, their tails may be held high or twitching back and forth, which is a sign of excitement and playfulness. Cats may stare at each other intently during a fight because their bodies become tense and rigid. To intimidate the other cat, they might attempt to make themselves appear larger by puffing up their fur. However, when cats fight, they might hiss, growl, or yowl instead—clear signs that playtime is over and they may need to be separated.
Read also
How to tell the difference between play biting and aggressive biting?
It’s totally normal for dogs to play-bite, bark, chase, swipe, and lunge, as long as it’s in a gentl Read More
Ned Mertz
2025-05-23 06:18:02
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: 17
When your cats are chasing each other, hissing, and pouncing, you may find yourself wondering, are my cats playing or fighting. Body language can tell you a lot. Both playing and fighting can involve jumping on each other, chasing, and even a little hissing. If your cats' bodies are relaxed or their ears are pointed forward, they're likely just playing. Cats that are play fighting tend to take turns, letting one cat be at the bottom of the wrestling huddle and then the other. They might even take brief breaks to rest. If your cats flatten their ears, hold their ears back, or puff up their fur or tails, this is a sign that they're fighting, not playing. Defensive, puffy postures and leaning away from each other while hissing with bared teeth are signs that your cats feel threatened and aren't having fun. Chasing a tired cat until it hides could also be a bad sign. Inflicting injury is another indication things have gone too far. Watching how your cats act around each other when they're not playing can help you see more clearly how serious the situation is. If they groom each other, cuddle with each other, or generally live peacefully together, they're likely just playing.