Why Pet Siblings Fight (And What You Can Do About It)
Bringing home a bonded pair of pets or raising siblings together often comes with high hopes for lifelong harmony. But anyone with more than one furry (or feathery) friend knows the reality isn't always so neatly packaged. If you've caught your pets swatting, growling, or giving each other the cold shoulder, you're not alone. Even sibling pets don’t always get along.
As New Zealand’s trusted pet experts, at Petdirect we understand the complexities of multi-pet households — because we get pet. In this guide, we’ll explore why pet siblings might clash and share practical tips to help create a peaceful home for everyone under your roof.
Temperament And Personality Clashes
Just like people, pets have unique personalities. Even if they’re from the same litter or household, your fur babies might be polar opposites. One might love playtime, while the other prefers peace and quiet. These differences can lead to misunderstandings and tension in the home.
Breed traits also play a role. For example, a high-energy Border Collie might overwhelm their more chilled sibling like a Ragdoll cat. That doesn’t mean they can’t be friends — it just takes more understanding, space, and often, toys that suit their energy levels like interactive toys to keep them focused on fun instead of feuding.
Territorial Behaviour
While we often think of dogs as pack animals, pets of any species can be possessive. Whether it’s the comfiest cat bed or a prized toy, guarding their favourite things may spark rows between seemingly close siblings.
Feeding areas and toilet spaces can also trigger issues. Create distinct zones for eating and resting to reduce friction, and consider smart feeders or pet fountains for extra convenience and fairness.
Changes In Routine Or Environment
Pets thrive on routine, and even small disruptions can stir up disharmony. Moving house, a new baby, or even a change in work hours might stress your pets out, leading them to act out — sometimes, toward each other.
During transitions, offer calming support like pheromone diffusers or anxiety care products from trusted brands like Feliway or Adaptil. Keeping to consistent mealtimes, walks, and bedtimes can also go a long way in soothing sensitive pets.
Health Or Pain Related Triggers
If your pet’s normally friendly behaviour takes a sudden turn, it could be a sign of discomfort or hidden illness. Cats and dogs might lash out if they’re in pain, even toward their lifelong playmate.
Watch for subtle symptoms like limping, reduced appetite, or shying away from touch. A trip to your local vet may uncover underlying health issues. You can also support their wellbeing with high-quality pet health supplements or targeted care like skin and coat support.
Hormones And Mating Behaviour
If your pets aren’t desexed, hormonal shifts can stir up trouble. Competition, mounting behaviour, and aggression can all increase — even in siblings — particularly around the time they reach sexual maturity. This can be especially true for cats and some dog breeds.
Chat to your vet about the best time for desexing and consider enriching their environment with healthy treats or smart toys to distract them from any hormone-fuelled drama.
How To Encourage Harmony In A Multi-Pet Home
Sibling squabbles might be common, but peace is possible with a few simple steps:
- Positive reinforcement: Reward calm behaviour with treats and affection.
- Separate resources: Give each pet their own bowl, bed and toys.
- Supervised playtime: Especially for high-energy pairs, interactive toys like those from KONG can foster positive engagement.
- Safe retreats: Provide private hideaways like cosy beds or crates for decompression time.
- Recognise limits: Some pets simply prefer their own space, and that’s perfectly OK.
Bringing Balance To The Pack
It’s natural to hope our pets will be the best of friends, but even siblings can have their moments. By understanding the root causes of sibling squabbles — from personality differences to everyday stress — you can create a calmer, happier home for both of them (and you).
If you're navigating the highs and lows of a multi-pet household, our Petdirect team is here for you. From calming essentials to smart accessories for shared spaces, we’re proud to support Kiwi pet parents like you. And don’t forget — with Pet Perks and Airpoints, you’ll earn treats while shopping for theirs!