Expert: Becky - 10/25/2006

Question
We just recently adopted two female kittens from the same litter.  They are 8 weeks old (we brought them home two weeks ago).  They seem to be the best of friends and the worst enemies all in the span of an hour as they snuggle together when they fall asleep and then chase each other and maul each other as they play.  Lately it seems Sookie has become more aggressive with the "play" time and seems to be bullying Cosmo. There seems to be more crying involved in their mauling of each other as well, which seems to be coming from Cosmo who is generally quieter than Sookie.  Sookie is also a bit bigger than Cosmo.  I really would like them to get along and am worried they are being too rough with each other.  Is there something we should be doing to keep them from fighting or is this just normal behavior?

Answer
Hi Colleen!

This is very typical behavior for kittens. I have two kittens also, one is about four months older than the other and he does the same thing... is too rough with the little one. I will rescue the "baby" but then she will wriggle away and go back for more!  LOL   I really think it's all part of play and although it sounds like they are killing each other, I really don't see any harm done.    As I said.. she went back for more so she must love it.  I never see any blood, so I guess no harm is done. Honestly, without separating them completley, there is no way to prevent this rough behavior.  I think it's all very normal and we are the ones freaking out over it, when they are probably having a great time "play" fighting. So, unless there is actual blood drawn, I wouldn't worry about it.  That's what I'm doing *smile*

God Bless,
Becky