How To Distinguish Between A Game And A Fight

It does not matter what type of pet we have, cat, dog, rabbit or others. If we have more than one at home, whether they are of the same species or of two different species, it is normal to see them “hugged” on multiple occasions and we cannot stop asking ourselves: Are they playing or fighting?

In this article we are going to focus on signals that will make us differentiate a fight from a game of two different species of pets: cats and dogs. There are different signs that will make us see what those “hugs” consist of. Let’s focus on the cats first.

Differentiate a fight from a game in cats

If you have two cats at home or maybe just one but there is another that is a neighbor and they like to be together, observe their movements to be able to differentiate a fight from a game.

Cats are playful by nature, so we shouldn’t be surprised that they hook up with each other to hang out. The factors that you should take into account to differentiate a fight from a game are the following:

• They know each other? If cats know each other and you’ve seen them show affection before, you don’t have to worry;  It is not a fight but a game. But if they are two strangers, be careful, don’t let them get too close.
• Are they screaming? If one or both cats squeal, there’s no question: it’s a fight. The best way to stop it will be to distract both animals so that they do not cause serious injuries. You can use the broomstick to put it between them and have an obstacle in the middle that makes them separate. Just for that, never to hit them with it.
• Is there a dominant one? Can you clearly see that there is a dominant cat and a bullied one? Do not hesitate! They do not have a cordial relationship and if they are not fighting yet, they will shortly.

• Do they whistle at each other? Sometimes a hiss, or rather a hiss, short and occasional does not have to be a sign of a fight, but if they are long and constant, the worst will happen shortly.

Do not stop observing your cats so that you can differentiate a fight from a game. Cats are playful, but very quiet when they play, so any sound that is longer than usual will make you see that something is wrong.

Differentiate a fight from a game in dogs

In the case of dogs, when they play they bark and show other signs that can easily be interpreted as signs of a fight. Therefore, on this occasion, we are going to focus on what are the signs that denote that two dogs are playing.

• Your position. Surely when you read this, you will say: it’s true! When a dog plays, it places its front legs on the ground from the elbows while raising its rear to the maximum. If you are doing this for another dog, all you want to do is play with him.
• It’s tail. If its tail is continuously wagging, we already know that it is a happy gesture, as long as it is not accompanied by severe and aggressive barking.
• His facial expression. When a dog wants to play his mouth is open, his tongue is sticking out creating a friendly expression and his barks are very short but serious.
• The approach. A very simple way to differentiate a fight from a game is by observing the way the two dogs approach each other. When the intention is good they will approach smoothly, slowly or even hopping around. On the other hand, if they pounce abruptly, it is clear, they will fight.

In dog games there are barking, chasing and sometimes even biting, so don’t be alarmed if you see any of these gestures. However, if these become too intense or threatening, it is time for you to separate the two animals.

Sometimes, we are afraid that our pet will approach other animals because they are going to fight, but it is not a matter of overprotecting your animal to the point of denying it the opportunity to socialize.

Allow him to interact with other animals.  Teach your pet from a very young age to socialize and not be aggressive. We are sure that now you will be calmer, since you already know how to differentiate a fight from a game.

Images courtesy of Jan Truter and Jon Hurd.