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Cats/Cat Jealousy
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Question
Hello!
Just this Thursday I adopted a Kitty, named Dewey in hopes of giving my other rescued cat, Joana, who is already about 2 years old someone to play with. But once Joana saw Dewey, who is about 3 months old, she started hissing and growling. Is this jealousy or more? I understand that Joana was the "only child" for quite a bit, so her reaction is understandable. But will she accept Dewey? What should I do to make Joana friendly towards him?
Dewey is oblivious and just wants to play with Joana, so he tries to play with her, and she just runs away or chases him and slaps him with her paw. I'm actually scared she will hurt him, that's why I keep him locked in a room at night so Joana will not hurt him.
Thank you.
Hi Jessica,
It's not a jealousy thing but a territory thing. When you bring a new cat into the old cat's territory they get upset sometimes. It doesn't sound too bad from what you describe. There will be some hissing and swatting until they settle things out. It's good that Dewey is a young male. They seem to settle in easier. Give them about a week. Things will calm down. You can also search the web for a cat intro protocol. It's steps on how to bring a new cat into your home. Follow the steps in one. It helps. The best thing is time. They should be fine in a week or two. Good luck.
Ciao, Karen
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Answers by Expert:
Karen Craft
Expertise
I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!
Experience
I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care.
Some thoughts to carry with you.
A Cat's 10 Commandments
My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.
Give me time to understand what you want of me.
Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.
Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you.
Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.
Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.
Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you.
If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong.
Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old.
On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so.
Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.
Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.
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