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Expert: - 2/4/2008


Question
I have 2 male cats (neutered) a year apart. They are normally inseparable, sleeping and playing together, and get anxious if they have to be apart.  Recently, a dog ran past our open window and Burton, the older cat, went crazy and started hissing and clawing the screen. Butters, the younger one came up behind him to see what was going on, and Burton turned on him, and they fought for a couple of minutes, until we could split them up.  Now, they won't go near each other, and stare at each other from across the room, growling, hissing, and howling at each other.  This is heartbreaking, to say the least.  What can we do to help them over this and get back to the way they were?

Answer
Hi Stephanie,

This a case of redirected aggression. You need to place them in separate rooms and give them a time out. Then make sure that they won't see that dog again. You then need to bring them back in the room but in separate corners. Pet and praise each one. Feed them whatever special food treats they like. And then have them come together slowly. Keep talking calmly. They should be in a relaxed state by then and should be ok. If not, back for another timeout.

If they behaved this way from the dog, I would suggest you take both of them together whenever one has to go to the vet. This will prevent any flareups if one comes back smelling different. They should settle down in a few days. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

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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.

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I have an A.A.S.

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