How to Identify & Manage Resource Guarding in Cats & Dogs
Resource guarding in dogs and cats may present itself in unique ways, but the underlying cause is quite similar: territory.
Picture this: one of your cats is nestled cozily on your lap, soaking up all the attention. Out of nowhere, the second cat struts over, ready to join the cuddle session. But wait! The lap cat isn't having any of it and starts swatting its paws, asserting its claim and shooing the interloper away. It's all about that precious lap space and keeping their cozy territory intact!
Your dog probably has that one favorite blanket they snuggle into every night. One day, as you’re about to toss it into the wash, your furry friend trots over, ready to play tug-of-war, complete with a serious low growl that may be out of character.
Both situations are various forms of resource guarding, we sometimes play it off such as “oh that cat is a jerk”, “that dog is just playing”, or “they will grow out of it” type of conversations. However if we don’t address or help treat the underlying reasons to the guarding, they could post a bigger risk and even sense of danger to a friend, child or another pet in the family.
What is Resource Guarding?
Resource guarding is essentially what it sounds like, to prevent another animal or person from taking what is theirs. The behaviors they express are intended to prevent the other animal from obtaining the item they are protecting.
Why do Pets Resource Guard?
Just like us humans, our furry companions—dogs and cats—have developed their own unique ways of expressing desires and feelings. They communicate through a rich tapestry of behaviors, signaling their intentions ranging from the polite request of “please don’t touch that!” to the more assertive “back off, buddy, that’s mine!”
At times, their methods may seem like a foreign language, leaving us puzzled as we scratch our heads. For instance, a cat may swish its tail with irritation or offer a seemingly innocent head butt to show affection, while a dog might wag its tail in enthusiasm or bear its teeth when feeling threatened. Each gesture speaks volumes, but without a solid grasp of their “dialects,” we might misinterpret these signals.
Understanding isn’t just about deciphering a few barks or meows; it requires us to tune in to their body language and emotional states. Becoming fluent in “pet speak” is nothing less than an adventure!
Resource Guarding in Cats
Primary items cats may guard include their favorite human, toys, food, cat beds, litter boxes, cat trees and of course their napping spots. Have you ever fed a group of kittens to find a couple of them growl while eating? Its the cutest thing when they are little, but its a clear indication of resource guarding. At that age, kittens are learning how to be a cat in the big world around them.
Their primary drivers are food, play time and nap time. When one cat completely blocks another from accessing food, it can quickly escalate into a serious issue. We all know that if a cat goes 24 hours without eating, it's off to the emergency vet because their kidneys and organs could start shutting down, leading to a very critical situation.
When it comes to litter box real estate, resource guarding can cause a big problem in a multi cat household. One cat may be blocking access to the litter box completely resulting in the other cat using your favorite blanket or a pile of clothes on the floor as a restroom.
Other signs of resource guarding in cats include hissing, chasing others in the house away from the resource, swatting, blocking access off, spraying items and even people to mark their territory and stalking.
Resource Guarding in Dogs
Similar reasons to cats, dogs will often guard their food, toys and favorite person. Common but subtle signs of resource guarding include freezing, tensing up of muscles, hard eye staring (whale eyes), lip licking, and increasing their speed of eating.
Other more noticeable signs of guarding in dogs include the growling, snarling, biting, lunging and physical chasing of others.
How to Manage & Prevent Resource Guarding
Fortunately, a wealth of research and professionals exists to help us foster peace and harmony in our pets' lives. Many of these solutions don’t even require a formal consultation; you can begin with everyday supplies and the simple routines you already practice at home.
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When it comes to litter boxes, have 1 litter box per cat with 1 additional. This means a 2 cat household will contain 3 litter boxes (regardless of if they are automatic or manual scooping) It is also recommended to place litter boxes on each level of the house rather than in one single location.
Have multiple food and water bowls, one for each cat. During feeding times feed the cats a distance away from each other and block their view whether it be a couch, kitchen island or blanket. This will help alleviate any stress while eating.
Have multiple cat trees, many toys and a variety of cozy sleeping spots they can choose from scattered around the house for ample space.
Provide positive reinforcement for good behavior. If one cat is laying on your lap and the other comes near and there is NO display of guarding, reward them both with a treat, pet or verbal affirmations.
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Have multiple food and water bowls, one per animal. Feed the dogs in separate rooms to allow them to eat in peace.
Do NOT punish your dog for guarding their territory or take away the item as this can lead to them no longer providing subtle signs and give outright aggression.
Provide enough equitable resources for your dogs. This includes enough toys, beds, treats and food for all in the home. If you buy one new bed with 2 dogs in the home, chances are they will fight for the new luxury item. Buy two new beds instead.
Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior to continue. This can look like dropping a few treats in a bowl while your walking near the dog eating to associate it in a positive manner.
Teach the basic commands of “give” and “leave it” .
Reward them for experiencing or investigating something new in a safe manner, like a new child, situation or animal.
When to Seek Professional Help
Recognizing when resource guarding has escalated to a dangerous level is crucial and cannot be overlooked. It’s essential to seek help before anyone gets harmed. Addressing the subtle signs early on is the most effective approach. There are many dog trainers who may specialize in reactive behaviors, in the Omaha area Pups with a Purpose, Bonafide Dog Academy or Fidelity K9 can make great options.
Cat behavior consultants can be a little trickier to find, but luckily Allison Helps Cats is a local area cat behaviorist in Lincoln NE. Other great options can provide online consultations with published authors and behaviorists like Cat Behavior Associates or FelineMinds.
The subtleties of canine and feline communication allow us to decode their needs and feelings, ensuring we provide the kind of love and care that makes their tails wag and their purrs rumble. In our quirky world of pet care, it’s all about embracing their unique expressions while developing a deeper bond that transcends words!
Further Readings:
Rogers, C. D. (2024a, September 19). Cat Resource Guarding: Vet-reviewed causes & what to do. Catster. https://www.catster.com/cat-behavior/cat-resource-guarding/
Resource guarding in dogs. The Humane Society of the United States. (n.d.-a). https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/resource-guarding-dogs
Huggett, A. (2024, January 29). Resource guarding in Multi-cat families. Cat Care Society. https://catcaresociety.org/resource-guarding-in-multi-cat-families/
Huggett, A. (2024, January 29). Resource guarding in Multi-cat families. Cat Care Society. https://catcaresociety.org/resource-guarding-in-multi-cat-families/
Szumel, R. (2023, May 5). Academy vet talk: Resource guarding in dogs. Academy for Dog Trainers. https://www.academyfordogtrainers.com/blog/vet-talk-resource-guarding-in-dogs/#:~:text=Resource%20guarding%20is%20when%20dogs,t%20try%20to%20take%20it.
