Some people are put off having cats as pets because they have heard stories about cat fights and how bad tempered some cats can be. Much of this stems from the way feral cats tend to behave. A feral or wild (non domestic) cat has to fight to survive in many cases and behaves just as any other animal in the wild will do. The domestic cat is in much way a totally different animal.

Admittedly some cats just like humans have shorter fuses than others and are liable to put out their claws or his at you more readily than other cats would. However, generally most domestic cats have a very placid nature. If your cat has not already been neutered when you get it this is something you should seriously consider. Neutering, especially for Toms has the effect of calming them down and curing some of their anti-social behaviour. It also gives the added benefit that they will not go off chasing every Queen in the neighbourhood.

If you allow you cat to go out of doors there is always the risk that it may encounter either a feral or more aggressive cat and get involved in a cat fight. Therefore it is important that you make sure that your cat is regularly vaccinated from an early age and then repeated annually. These vaccinations will help protect your animal against Feline Aids (FIV) which can be transmitted through the blood during a fight or Feline Leukaemia both of which will almost certainly be fatal,

As an owner you should inspect your cat regularly for any signs that they have been fighting. This can show as cuts or abrasions to its skin, possibly a tear in the ear or an abscess which can develop from an infected bite. If you discover these it is often best to take your cat to the vet especially if you are not certain about your cats vaccination state.

If you discover any cats fighting the quickest and safest method of parting them is to either throw water over them or use a hose. Do not try and intervene and physically part them as you could well get bitten or scratched and then it will be you needing the injections.

Most domesticated cats are gentle loveable creatures especially after neutering or spaying who will lead gentle long peaceful lives. So there is no need to worry about cat fights providing you take the simple precautions outlined here.