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Cats/Is it normal for a cat to stop liking somebody?

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Expert: - 12/12/2009


Question
Hi Karen,

Is it normal for a cat to suddenly stop liking somebody? The family cat, about 2 years old, who has always gotten along fine with my dad suddenly stopped being so. Now she runs away from him whenever he comes near. She is still fine with me though, but I'm the one always feeding her. She eats, does her toilet and cleans herself normally, the odd thing is just suddenly stopped liking my dad. We're not sure why, no one has scolded her or hit her recently.

We have introduced 2 new kittens to the house but they stay in a room and only occasionally gets out. If the kittens meets the older cats the older cats just hisses but otherwise are fine unless the kittens gets too close or tries to touch them.

My dad doesn't play with the kittens much, and always tries to prioritize the bigger cats. But now that one of the cats seems to be afraid of him it saddens him.

Thanks for any advice!

Answer
Hi Neri,

Cats usually don't stop liking someone for no reason. You need to play detective here. Does your Dad play with the kittens? Does he go in their room? Is there any way he is picking up their scent on him? If the answer is yes to any of these questions then that is the reason the elder cat is dissing him. Scents are a powerful influence on cat behavior.

He needs to befriend the elder cat with special food treats. Get some deli chicken and have him give it to the elder cat. A few little pieces every day for a week should do it. You also need to let the kits out and about in the house. Once the elder cat gets used to them he will be accepting of your dad again. Good luck and happy holidays!

Ciao, Karen

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Karen Craft

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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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