I have a year-old male neutered cat, and recently got a 3 month old unneutered (he will be neutered next month) male kitten. I'm confused as to why my older cat starts standing on the kitten and kneading on his body, and then grabs the scruff on the little guy's neck, and continues kneading away. It almost looks like some mating ritual, which is strange because the older guy is neutered. The little guy puts up with it for a little bit and then protests and runs away. This happens at least once a day, while I am home. I have no idea what my older cat is doing and why. Anyone have an idea? I know male dogs mount each other to show dominance, is that possibly what my cat is doing?
2006-11-20 19:52:21 · 8 answers · asked by Holly H 1 in Pets ➔ Cats
Post-natal memories of being kittens and nursing.
2006-11-20 19:55:42 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
The only thing i can think of is your male cat is glad of some cat company and is being affectionate towards the kitten. Hes just a bit curious and is checking him out and will eventually grow out of it when hes settled in.Nothing to worry about . It's a good sign hes showing no agression towards him. However keep an eye on them.
Cool
2006-11-21 08:27:59 · answer #2 · answered by Miss Pastry 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Cats will knead (and sometimes bite without meaning to harm, like they did when they nursed their mothers before getting their teeth)when they feel very cozy. As someone else said, it probably has to do with kittenhood instincts. It sounds like your older cat likes your kitten very much. :) That's so cute!
If the kitten can get away when he wants to, it means he's not likely to be seriously hurt. Please rest assured that you only need to call your vet about this if you think that your kitten needs immediate care.
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2006-11-21 04:04:18 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
They are mimicking the action of helping the milk come down when they nurse on their mother. It's a comforting kitten thing and many continue this into adulthood.
2006-11-21 10:38:25 · answer #4 · answered by leslie d 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yep, could be....or maybe he's trying to tell the small one that the the new addition is in his 'territory'...but I think it might be more the domination thing.
If you notice it starts really hurting the little one or it is really bothering you, I would give your local vet a call just to find out what's going on
2006-11-21 03:58:28 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is possible that the old cat bribed the veteran
2006-11-21 05:18:05 · answer #6 · answered by zukielzuki 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it doesn't sound like the cat means the kitten any harm, it does sound like he does like him, leave them alone , they will prolly be good buddies soon
2006-11-21 06:37:43 · answer #7 · answered by txcatwoman 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it could be like nesting. maybe ur older cat was weaned too soon.
2006-11-21 05:17:16 · answer #8 · answered by DAYNA S 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋