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Expert: - 12/11/2010


Question
We adopted two brother kittens this summer to join our two yr old girl cat.  They are now 8 1/2 months, she is 2 1/2 yrs.  We live in a one level condo and all cats are indoor cats.  The transition has had its ups and downs, but the past two weeks, the boys, who are now larger than the girl, seem to have become obsessed with chasing her and they are making her (and me!) a nervous wreck.
When they first arrived she seemed to etablish her dominance which we thought would endure, but now it seems that is changing simply because there are two of them and they are bigger.  This is upsetting.  The boys aren't mean, but they are (very) persistent and they go after her together which completely overhelms her.
We keep them separated when we can, but none of them like being behind a closed door, plus space is limited, so separating them is not much of an option.  I could use any suggestions and words of encouragement.  I'm hoping this is something the boys will grow out of....soon! Thank you,

Jonquil R.

Answer
Hi Jonquil,

I have to ask, are the boys neutered? If not get them done. This will take care of the problem. If they are fixed the next thing to do is get some Feliway Comfort Zone and try that. This should help calm things down.
Get yourself a water pistol. At the first sign of aggressive behavior by one of the males spray them. You need to interrupt this behavior. Or if you don't want to spray them get a laser pointer and redirect their attention by playing with them. They should stop this behavior in a while. As they get older they will get calmer. You just need to be patient. 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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