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Cats/cats fighting after being groomed
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Question
We had my oldest cat (4 years old) groomed for the first time. The groomer told us that he and our other cats may hiss at each other for a couple days. Unfortunately, we're only on about a day and it's it's gone beyond hissing.Two of the cats (the one that was groomed and our second oldest) are fighting. We haven't been able to leave them in the same room - there is hissing, fighting, running after each other to attack. It's been pretty intense! How long will this go on for? Initially the cat who was not groomed started it, but now they both seem very very mad! Help!
Hi Kim,
Hooboy, sounds like a can of worms has been opened. You have a case of non recognition aggression going on. When the one cat was groomed his odors changed. When he came back his house mate saw him but didn't smell him. It confused the guy who was home. He is thinking a strange cat in the house and time to defend his territory. You need to use a cat introduction protocol and reintroduce them. Also you can get some Feliway Comfort Zone. It might help. It mimics a cat's happy pheromones and relaxes them.
http://www.sdhumane.org/site/DocServer/BT_Cat-Cat_Intros.pdf?docID=621
http://www.sdhumane.org/site/DocServer/Introducing_a_Cat_to_a_New_Territory.pdf?...
These are two good articles that can help. The next time one has to go anyplace like the vets bring the other. This will prevent another episode of this. Good luck and take care.
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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