Expert: Dear Tabbi - 8/7/2008

Question
Dear Tabbi,

We have had a one-year-old male tabby (James) since he was a kitten, but since we leave near a very busy road it's an indoor cat. Last week we got a ten-week-old female kitten (Lima) to keep him company, because he seems to be moving less and less since being castrated. However, James isn't the easiest of cats - he's constantly startled by everything, even me or my boyfriend entering a room - and seems to dislike the new kitten. I realise he needs time to get used to Lima, but whenever the two come together, James seems to be far too rough with Lima. Even if she just comes to rub her head against him, he kind of bats her around the head with his paw. On the other hand, we have seen him lick her once or twice. It's slightly unnerving - how do I know whether this is just play-fighting, or if it's going too far? And is there any way to get them to get along? We'd like to start locking them up together during the night, but we're worried whether it's safe.

Any advice would be very welcome,

Suzanne

Answer
Suzanne,

What seems like rough play to us is not to cats. James may not realize that he is stronger than the little one and be a little too rough. But it sounds like they are adjusting normally. If she head-butts and he licks, that is very positive. Slaps, hisses, and growls are normal 'kitty communication. The only time you need to worry is if there is major fur flying, blood being shed, or ears pinned back.

I would lock them up together when you are awake (only as a test) and see how it goes. That way if there sounds like there is a problem you can intervene. But I don't think there will be. Put some new toys and balls in there for them to play with so they will play more with them than just each other, and give them a way to look out the window to divert their attention.

It takes time, patience, and love but it sounds like you won't have any problems. Get a pet laser light (PetSmart, Petco, etc.) and play with them interactively. Playing together like that will help them get used to each and bond.

Tabbi