We have two resident cats, both spayed females. One is 6 years old and the other is 2 years. They have been inseparable companions. They groom each other and sleep together. Recently, we introduced a new (male) kitten. We followed the recommended steps for introducing the newcomer to the resident cats. What followed was unexpected.
The younger resident cat accepted the kitten rather quickly. They now play together. The older resident exhibited wariness and hostility, which we expected. She does not appear to be afraid of the kitten, just hisses and growls when he comes close. However, this older cat has suddenly become scared of her friend and companion. She growls at her and runs away from her when her former buddy approaches and tries to renew contact. Twice, when the younger one tried to get close to her on our bed, she urinated and defecated on the bed.
Perhaps one other thing is relevant. We recently lost our top cat to kidney failure. The hierarchy may be fluid at this point, with either adult cat a possibility for the top rung. Therefore, dominance may be an issue.
Can anyone explain why our older cat does not appear to be afraid of the new kitten, but is afraid of her old buddy? Thanks.
The younger resident cat accepted the kitten rather quickly. They now play together. The older resident exhibited wariness and hostility, which we expected. She does not appear to be afraid of the kitten, just hisses and growls when he comes close. However, this older cat has suddenly become scared of her friend and companion. She growls at her and runs away from her when her former buddy approaches and tries to renew contact. Twice, when the younger one tried to get close to her on our bed, she urinated and defecated on the bed.
Perhaps one other thing is relevant. We recently lost our top cat to kidney failure. The hierarchy may be fluid at this point, with either adult cat a possibility for the top rung. Therefore, dominance may be an issue.
Can anyone explain why our older cat does not appear to be afraid of the new kitten, but is afraid of her old buddy? Thanks.
