ArcaMax

Dear Cathy,

I have two cats – a 14-year-old male cat and a two-year-old female. Both are fixed. Things were fine for the first year, but for the past year, there has been a "dust-up" every six to eight weeks, and they hiss, snarl, and fight very aggressively.

We separate them for a minimum of two days and then reintroduce them to each other slowly. We keep pheromone dispensers going in a couple of locations in the house. We have lots of toys, scratching posts, beds, litter boxes, etc. I have had blood work done on both, and nothing appears irregular. I am at a loss as to what to do.

— Debbie, Lebanon, Oregon

Dear Debbie,

You are already doing a great job. But let’s tweak a few things to see if it helps.

Cats are very territorial and, for some reason, one or both may have recently decided that the shared resources aren’t working for them. To reduce territorial stress, make sure there are at least three litter boxes available (a common rule of thumb is one per cat, plus one extra), separate food dishes (one for each, no sharing), and water dishes (at least two) located in different areas.

I also recommend incorporating tall cat trees, as cats love to perch high and survey their kingdom, and cozy hideout holes — like boxes, baskets, or kitty yurts — spaces where they can retreat and feel safe if they need space from each other.

Another option is anxiety clothing, like the Thundershirt® for cats. These products are designed to apply gentle, constant pressure, which can have a calming effect on stressed or anxious cats. Make sure to introduce the clothing slowly and in a positive way, offering treats or praise to help them get comfortable with it.

When they are separated, help them stay in touch by swapping blankets or bedding with the others' scents. This keeps them connected even when they’re in separate rooms and can't see each other.

Finally, switch to pheromone collars, specifically the ones designed for multi-cat households. These collars can help reduce stress and create a calmer environment for both cats as they adjust to each other. You could also add a few drops of Rescue Remedy for pets (available online) to their water or give them an over-the-counter calming product, especially when you are reintroducing them after a short separation.

Remember, any changes in the home — like adjustments to your work schedule, someone leaving for college, or other disruptions — can sometimes stress your pets. You're already doing a great job and handling their stress in all the right ways. Just add on one or two of these things to see if it helps.

Dear Cathy,

I have a labradoodle who likes to go in our bathroom garbage. I have tried chili pepper flakes and bitter apple spray, but he has been undeterred. Help!

— Laura, Naples, Florida

Dear Laura,

Labradoodles are intelligent and curious dogs, which can sometimes lead to “fun” behaviors like raiding the bathroom trash can. While this can be frustrating, there are a few practical strategies for managing this habit and redirecting your dog's curiosity.

First, the simplest solution is to physically block access to the trash can. Keep the bathroom door closed when it is not in use. Use lidded trash cans with secure tops that your dog can’t open, or store the trash can inside a bathroom cabinet or closet with a childproof lock. You could also install a baby gate across the bathroom doorway that has a door that opens and closes, so people can pass through the gate when they need to use the bathroom.

Second, focus on redirecting his behavior. Dogs often scavenge out of boredom or for attention, so make sure your Labradoodle is getting plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Increase his daily exercise and incorporate puzzle toys or interactive feeders to keep his mind engaged.

You can also teach a “leave it” command to discourage him from going near the bathroom. Start by practicing with less tempting objects and rewarding him for obeying, then work up to items that might be more irresistible, like treats. The goal is to teach him to leave the trash can alone or to not go into the bathroom altogether.

Finally, ensure there isn’t anything particularly enticing in the trash can like food smells or tissues. Dogs seem to love tissues for some reason. So, if possible, maybe walk them to your house’s main trash can. Cleaning the can regularly or using a deodorizer can also help reduce the appeal.

I hope some of these ideas work for you.

____

_____

========

(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)

©2025 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

(c) 2025 DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.