My cat is not as affectionate since we brought a new kitten home.

Hi. Just seeking a little advice here. We have a Russian blue mix, 2 1/2 years old named Jackson. He has always been very sweet, affectionate and loving. He's not a clingy cat or the type to follow your every move but he does like attention and snuggles. Anytime we watch tv he will quickly jump up into our arms to lay with us, he always jumps into bed to give us both 'head bumps' before bed and he loves to play fetch and hide & go seek with us. He's our baby and we love him beyond words.  A week and a half ago we brought home a second kittens who is 3 1/2 months old and also a Russian blue mix. At first there was a lot of hissing and growling but that faded very quickly. We had isolated the kitten but after 2-3 days of separation and eating on separate sides of the door we let them have their first interaction. It went surprisingly well! They instantly began playing & chasing each other. I would find them laying in the same chair and after less than a week of her being with us I found Jackson snuggling and bathing the new kitten! It was beyond my expectations and we were thrilled.

So, what's the problem then? Jackson is a lot less affectionate toward us now He plays with the kitten but then retires to his chair or under the bed. He occasionally jumps us to visit us, but not very often at all. He no longer jumps in bed to give us head bumps before turning in for the night which is something he had done every night for the past 2 & 1/2 years. Also, he doesn't play with any of his toys. We used to play fetch with him and he loved the attention and to show off. If we throw him a toy now the kitten runs to it first and Jackson just walks away. I love the new kitten, but I don't want to loose the affection of Jackson I understand that it has only been less than 2 weeks but I just want to know that Jackson will start acting like his old self eventually. It doesn't help that the new kitten smothers me and always wants to be on my lap. She also sleeps with us now. I have tried to put her back in a room to focus on Jackson but she literally screams until she is back with us and on my lap. HELP! I've never had 2 cats at once so I don't know what behaviors are normal for this situation. Will my sweet Jackson come back?   Also, once I went in the room with the kitten and my partner tried to play with Jackson alone  in the main living area but again, he just doesn't seem interested in playing. I feel so guilty. Is my baby depressed? 

Julie
 

He's adjusting... It'll take some time. Try buying him a toy just for him.

It's a shock. How would you feel if your cat brought you a new roommate? [emoji]128576[/emoji] you'd need some time, too,

Perhaps he's being a gracious adult and letting the kitten have the toys and attention she needs. He could also be suffering from a little mopey jealousy. I don't think it's anything serious though. Make sure to go after him and shower him with lots of attention (along with the kitten) till he gains back the confidence that you still love him just as much! If he was really depressed, he would hardly move and and go off his food, you'd know.

Hate to say it but likely Jackson will not go back to his old personality as long as the kitten is around.   That`s just the way it is.   Some cats are alpha cats and they do not want any other cats on their turf.   

I think there's a possibility that he's found a new friend and his attention has been taken elsewhere.  He may not be playing with you or being affectionate, but he is snuggling and playing with the kitten..

It is very early days, as you know, and dynamics change.  If Jackson is depressed he would probably eat less, mope etc. Is that the case?  If not, I really wouldn't worry, let it play out and be glad that they don't hate each other!

Thanks for the replies! His eating habits haven't changed at all. His appetite has always been very healthy. Lol Last night jackson & Bella both snuggled on my lap. I posted this pic from it! Fingers crossed that this will just take some time. [emoji]128571[/emoji] I do make sure to give jackson plenty of extra attention so he doesn't feel left out.

Maybe Jackson 'grew up' when he got the responsibility of looking after his new little sister. My cats all became less affectionate around two years old, my husband has also mentioned he missed them being so lovey as kittens. I think it is still early, and Jackson may be a little unsure of the situation, even if he acts OK. Give it more time. Also, don't be surprised if they seem close now but not so close when Bella gets older, it seems to happen a lot. They will still love each other but not play as much. We all get older and calmer! All the luck!

What a gorgeous shot..

Very cozy!