Expert: Dear Tabbi - 8/1/2009

Question
Hi there,

I have 3 male cats.  One of our cats is a very old cat, who has decided he'd like to spend some of his last years in the garden out front.  He's very old, and fragile, and I am very upset with my cat Buster, who has always been the dominate cat in the house.  If Frazier (our old cat) comes in, he'll jump on top of Frazier (who just lays there and cries) while Buster (the dominate cat) seems to almost "mount him".  Lying on top of him, biting the back of his neck/back.  Now, I am wondering if my cat is Gay, or if he just wants to remind poor Frazier who is in charge.  Frazier often does not want to come back inside the house- and I am afraid it's because of Buster's behavior.  He's too old to be a full time outdoor cat.  They are both neutered.  (Many years ago.)  Buster is about 12 years old- and Frazier is about 16 or 17.  Do you have any recommendations?


Thanks!


Answer
JoAnn,

Frazier is approximately 84 years old and Buster is approximately 64 years old in human years.
At those age cats can develop a form of kitty Alzheimers and behave in a bizarre manner. I would try, if possible, to keep Buster away from Frazier when he is in that mood. The stress from Buster's behavior may induce health, behavior, and/or personality problems with Frazier.

Pain also makes cats aggressive which Buster could have from arthritis, or any number of things.

It is possible that Buster's behavior is a reaction to a female in heat in the neighborhood.
His behavior is common with a lot of neutered males. They act in a sexual manner even though they have been neutered. It usually starts about 2-3 years old (so yours is a little old for it, but you never know with cats). Some cats have a strong 'male mentality' and though they physically can't do anything they mentally can. Usually the cause for this behavior is that the neutered cat smells a female in heat somewhere in the neighborhood (even if they are inside cats) and react to it. I have been told about neutered males that will hump or bite the neck of other cats in the family (as yours is doing) male or female; dogs, peoples legs and arms, and even stuffed animals.

If that is the cause when he does that don't get mad at him or scold him because it's nature and he doesn't understand what he is doing wrong. But also don't pet him because that can get him more stimulated. Try to distract him with food or toys. A pet laser light (from PetSmart, Petco, etc.) is an excellent distraction. The behavior should stop when whatever is stimulating him stops.

I would suggest finding a vet that specializes in geriatric cat care and their conditions. Not all vets do which can be detrimental to an elderly cat. They should have an "older cat checkup". They get checked on the function of this kidneys, thyroid, liver, etc., and probably bloodwork. These checkups should be done every six months when you have a geriatric cat. If caught early some conditions can be treated with medication, especially pain medication for arthritis, which will ease any discomfort, and extend their quality of life.

Being prepared and knowledgeable about elderly cats will make things easier for the cats and for you. I am including some very good links about elderly cats:
(Copy and paste, or type, the whole links into your address bar)

http://www.sniksnak.com/resources/geriatric.html

http://www.messybeast.com/towards-end.htm

http://www.2ndchance.info/oldcat.htm

And I know it sounds morbid, but it has been proven that cats (and other animals) can smell the impending death in another animal and sometimes will attack it. I sincerely hope that it is not the case here, but because of their age, you do need to be prepared.

If you need to put your poor kitties to sleep at some point, or lose them, here is an EXCELLENT site for emotional support, and where you can have a beautiful memorial for your kitties:
http://rainbowsbridge.com/hello.htm

I hope this helps. And don't get angry and frustrated with the cats, they are probably as confused about their behavior as you are. Give them a lot of reassurance and love. They need it now more than ever.

Tabbi