Jealousy in Cats

Does your kitty morph into a feline ball of rage at the sight of a strange cat crossing the yard? Have you recently added another cat to your household, only to find that Fluffy hisses every time she sees Mittens? Kitties can be very jealous of one another! Here, a local Columbia, MD vet discusses jealousy in cats.

Territorial Kitties

As you may have noticed, our feline friends can be quite territorial. If two kitties are siblings, or grew up together, they may bond early and become fast friends. However, introducing older cats doesn’t always go over as well, especially if the cats were used to being only pets. (In other words, as far as Fluffy is concerned, you and your household belong to her, and Mittens has no business being there.)

Making Introductions

First impressions are a very big deal to cats. It can take a very long time for our feline buddies to overcome the ‘bad vibes’ they may have gotten from an introduction that went sour. If you bringing another furball into your house, make introductions slowly and carefully. Ask your vet for specific advice on introducing two kitties.

Keeping The Peace

If your cats are fighting, don’t yell at or punish them. This may only make matters worse! Fluffy will blame Mittens for you yelling at her, and will form an even more sour impression. Clap your hands or squirt them with water. We also recommend playing with both of your cats together, and giving them toys, treats, and meals near each other. This can help your pets form better associations with each other.

Tips

There are some things you can do to help your kitties get along. First, make sure to pay equal attention them both. Don’t play favorites! Also, make sure that they always have clean litterboxes, and plenty of food, water, and toys, so they don’t have to fight over resources. If you get pet furniture, choose pieces that can fit both kitties at once. Litterbox setup is another important topic. Cats hate sharing bathrooms! We recommend getting one box per feline, plus at least one extra. Keep them in different places: if they are side by side, your furballs may just think of them as one big box. Please contact us, your Columbia, MD pet hospital, for all of your cat’s veterinary care needs. We are happy to assist!