Question:
Three months ago, we added a 7-week-old female kitten to our household, which already had a 1-year-old female cat. We slowly introduced them in separated rooms for a few days, and within a week, they were cleaning each other, wrestling and sleeping together.However, now we have noticed the older cat surrenders completely to the kitten, refusing to play as soon as the little one comes into view. The kitten constantly jumps on the older one, chases her and seems to terrorize her. The older cat doesn't appear to be threatened, but she will often just run away from the kitten. We try to pay extra attention to the older cat who seems to have "aged" overnight, becoming more docile, aloof and less affectionate than she was before the new, energized kitten arrived.Is it possible the kitten is playing the alpha role; or is the older cat depressed at losing her only-child status? Did we go wrong in getting her a younger companion?.
K.W., New York, NY Nov 27, 2005
Answer:
It takes time for newly introduced cats to work things out, and sometimes one will show some change in personality (as you have witnessed).My interpretation of what you describe: The older cat is being very accepting of the feisty kitten and simply remains passive when attacked playfully, a clear sign of mature tolerance. The kitten will eventually learn to play gently, realizing the older cat is not interested in playing when she runs off.So, put in playtime with the kitten and continue giving the older cat extra TLC.No, you didn't go wrong. In a few months, I bet they will be inseparable companions for life.
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