Cat fights?

by Linda
(Laguna Hills CA)

I adopted a female kitten last year and is now over a year old. I have a 12 yr. old male who had no problem accepting her. Now every night he chases her and it looks like playing, but then he starts to hiss and growl and she gets scared and hides.
She does not hide for long though. Just can't figure out why he is being so agressive after one year and gets along with her most of the day.

RESPONSE:

Please tell me both the cats have been fixed! Your girl is no longer a kitten and is reaching the age where your 12 year old may now view her as competition. Another possibility is that your 12 year old may be feeling his age (thyroid problems, arthritis, etc.) and is attempting to maintain his status in the household. It could be that the younger cat is just too energetic for the older cat and he just gets irritated with her. Make sure both cats are healthy, have plenty of places to get away from each other and, in the evening, before the older one starts going after the younger one, play with them (string toys, balls, whatever they like) give them treats intermittenly during play, and after play, calm the older cat with a relaxing brushing session (if he tolerates it, otherwise, try a grooming glove and pet him) and see if this helps calm things down. 15 minutes of play and 5 or so minutes of petting/grooming will go a long way to change agressive behavior. Make sure your little girl gets some one on one petting/grooming time with you as well but choose a time when the older cat is resting.
Hope this helps!

Donna, House Full Cats Mom