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Expert: - 5/22/2007


Question
Hi,
My older cat is 2 yrs old. We got a kitten, which is about 12 weeks.
They get along great (both males, older one is fixed) My older one is always grooming the little one and playing. The little one tries to nurse on him and he just lets him.

As of late, the older one holds the little one down and is meowing at him, sorta like bawling him out.  Then lets go and sits back looks at him.  If the little one gets up he does it again. Holds him down complaing at him.  Then after the session he licks or grooms the little one..  

What exactly is going going on? Please help. I'm not sure if I should intervene or not.
Thanks,
Diana

Answer
Hi Diana,

They are just settling the hierarchy. Don't do anything. I have two who do the same. They are older in age but still do the grooming then semifight. It doesn't last long and no one gets hurt. They then forget about it and are best buds until the next time. Just let them do their thing.  The only time to worry is if they seem to get in a full blown fight; then use a spray bottle on them. Again they will forget and be great buds. 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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