Why Do Cats Living in the Same Apartment Hiss at Each Other: An Unexpected Explanation

15.06.2024 08:53

Many people perceive a cat's hissing solely as a manifestation of discontent and aggression.

Yes, in some cases such “decoding” corresponds to reality.

But sometimes a cat's hissing is interpreted incorrectly by humans.

Especially if fluffy creatures living in the same apartment hiss at each other.

Why do cats hiss at each other?

If we are talking about pets that have long been accustomed to each other, then hissing may not be a manifestation of aggression, but... a way to harmonize relationships.

cats
Photo: © Belnovosti

Yes, don't be surprised. Purring cats can hiss not because of hatred or fear, but in order to prevent possible conflicts and continue peaceful coexistence.

In this case, hissing acts as a warning signal: “Don’t touch me,” “I’m tired, leave me alone,” “Don’t enter my territory.”

However, it is far from certain that the issue is precisely the desire to harmonize relations.

It is possible that the cats really had a fight and are showing aggression. Or it may be that they are afraid of each other. This explanation is possible if the pets "met" only recently.

How can we distinguish between an "aggressive" hiss and a "warning" one? The answer is simple: in the first case, the animals hiss for a long time, in the second - briefly and sharply.

Earlier we told you how to help a cat with thick and long fur survive the heat.

Author: Kurchev Anton Deputy Editor-in-Chief