• We recently adopted a seven-month-old kitten, and our three-year-old, neutered male cat has been showing him a lot of aggression. We allow them to see each other at a distance, and the older male will begin to growl and hiss while the younger male retreats. As soon as we attempt to pull the older male back or out of the area, he lashes out with claws and teeth at us. How can we help them get along?

  It can take time for them to become comfortable with each other. At first I would allow them to interact through a closed door where they are not able to get at each other. If this goes well a few times then you can slowly start to let them see each other. If your older cat is the aggressor then you can try to put a harness and leash on him. This will allow you to control him at a distance so that he can’t claw or bite at you. If they do well then you can slowly increase the amount of time that they are together. While they are together make sure that you are giving both of them the same amount of attention. If this doesn’t work I recommend that you talk to your veterinarian or a trainer in your area. They can give you advice that is more specific to your individual cats. 

Answered by:

John Smith, DVM
Veterinarian

Dr. John Smith is a graduate of LSU, Class of 1998. He has over 10 years of experience...

Tags

Behavior