I have two female cats - one 8, the other 9 months (we've had her for 3 months now). They usually keep their distance, but when the older one thinks we aren't looking she'll run up and agressively swat the kitten until the little one flips on her back. Sometimes she'll do it when the kitten is playing on her own (I've never seen them play together). There's no blood but the kitten is pretty scared of the older cat, always watching where she's at, etc.
The only time I know they're fine is when they eat - they'll sit together in the kitchen with no problems and they eat with their bowls next to each other. I know there's some jealousy between them and we try to give both a lot of attention.
Since we've only had her a few months, might they still be working out territorial issues? Do I need to interfere or let them fight it out? I know it's my older cat that's the problem.
2006-11-27 06:47:30 · 6 answers · asked by Pook 4 in Pets ➔ Cats
It's basically your older cat letting the younger one know who is in charge. I wouldn't interfere, your little baby is getting some good lessons right now. In a few months the baby will be bigger, and will swat the big one right back. There will probably be all out brawls at that point...but it's a sheer dominance thing. As long as no one gets hurt than it's ok. Just make sure you know how to break them out without touching them. I found a dropped book or a magazine smacked on a table is enough to stop the fight at least for a minute. You have to know this ahead of time just in case one is getting hurt...and to keep you from getting hurt when you try to help! Good Luck
2006-11-27 06:59:50 · answer #1 · answered by Alexis 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
If the older cat does not hurt the young one, things should work out. However if you think that the kitten may be injured or the older one is more serious with agression please keep a close eye on them. Many things are in play here. Dominance (age), plus territory. As the little one grows larger this may equalize the problem. It could be "play fighting". This is how younger cats learn from her elders how to frolic, have physical interaction & gears the hunting instinct. It doesn't seem so bad right now. Just observe them & make sure they both are safe. Enjoy!
2006-11-27 07:39:57 · answer #2 · answered by PAMELA G 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's normal for your older cat to establish a "pecking order". Cats are territorial, and this new whipper-snapper is invading her space. The good thing is that they are not showing any food agression, which means they tolerate one another long enough to eat before they get back to business. From all my experience with cats, I say just let them duke it out....they both seem capable of fending for themselves, and soon enough they'll get along....or, at least, learn to live under the same roof. I've had cats that got along from the beginning, and some that hold a grudge forever...it just depends on the cats' personalities.
2006-11-27 07:40:01 · answer #3 · answered by VA Mamma 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
She's just making sure the kitten knows her place...ie. below her. SO long as it doesn't get violent, I wouldn't interfere. Chastising the older cat will likely make her even more aggressive towards the kitten. As the kitten grows, this will be less of a problem.
2006-11-27 06:59:55 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Unless they start getting hurt, let them work it out. Be careful not to favor one over the other. Cats never forget that kind of thing.
2006-11-27 06:52:57 · answer #5 · answered by mousersrus 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Its a territorial thing and jockeying for position.. let them deal with it in their own cat ways this isn't a people thing.
2006-11-27 06:51:26 · answer #6 · answered by Tapestry6 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋