fighting

Pretty (a male) normally stayed in the yard. he would come in and go out when someone else did. For three days now he has been going somewhere and coming in badly scratched and beat-up. The first time I thought a dog attack, but today he is bleeding from scratches to his ears and bites on his neck. He is spayed. Why is he fighting? He's not really an outside cat. And he is over 5 years old. Any ideas on how to stop this would help.(other than keeping him prisoner). And he has caps on. Thanks

It is likely that a new male cat has moved into the neighborhood and that the new cat is attacking Pretty. Once attacked, Pretty has no option but to fight back.

What do you mean that he has caps on? Do you mean nail covers? If so, this is very dangerous for him because if his nails are covered he cannot protect himself from attacks by other cats and by predators. Cats with nail caps should never be allowed outside.

Please keep an eye on Pretty. Cat bites become infected very easily. If you see any signs of swelling or puffiness please take him to the vet so the vet can check for abscesses.

"What do you mean that he has caps on? Do you mean nail covers? If so, this is very dangerous for him because if his nails are covered he cannot protect himself from attacks by other cats and by predators. Cats with nail caps should never be allowed outside."

Oh, I hope not! It even says so on the SoftPaws/SoftClaws website that cats wearing them should never go outside. If you insist on letting Pretty outside, you have to remove the nail caps ASAP.

Keeping a cat inside is not keeping them prisoner, it is keeping them safe. Especially if, as you say, he isn't really and outside cat. Have you considered installing cat fencing on your yard so Pretty could go outside but not wander off and come home with wounds and thus the risk of FIV or FeLV infection? The battle is probably territorial since he's neutered, or possibly not even with another cat. Does Pretty have his Rabies vax up to date?

Keep him indoors. He's probably fighting with other cats and if you have caps on his claws, he has little defense.

Why do you think he needs to be outside without supervision? This is what happens when you allow them to be on their own. IMO if you care about him and not want him to be hurt anymore, then keep him inside for his safety.

Keep the poor kitty indoors, if I'm reading it right he's come home beat up 3 days in a row. I can't understand why you'd keep sending him back out.

If you want him to have some outdoor time, walk him with a harness & leash so you know he is safe.

I would take the nail caps off before you let him out again, at least that means the other cat will look as bad as him !

If he is over 5 years old, he should have a good chance against any other cats about, and it may just chase the other cat off, if he suddenly comes back with claws !