I understand that cats, like many animals, may fight if they feel threatened, over territory, male aggression, etc.
But once they throw down, what does instinct tell them to do? They happen so quickly and frantically, seemingly without strategy, it’s hard to make sense of what’s going on.
Try to scratch the other’s eyes out, maim or kill, or just keep swinging until the other backs down?
In: Biology
When cats fight, their primary objective is usually to establish dominance or defend territory. These fights look chaotic because their actions are driven by instinct. Cats typically aim to look as intimidating as possible first – think puffed-up fur and arched backs. When a physical fight ensues, cats target vulnerable areas such as the face, belly, and neck of their opponent. They rely heavily on their claws and teeth to cause enough discomfort to make the other cat retreat. Generally, the idea is not necessarily to kill but to assert dominance and make the other cat back down.
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