Kitten aggression/ dominance toward newer kitten

by Kimber
(Massachusetts)

I have a 7 month old indoor female kitten (kitten A) from a reputable shelter who lived in our home for 4 months and then we adopted a second female kitten (kitten B) from the same shelter who is now about 3+ months old. We've now had the kitten B for about 6 weeks.

We took our time in introducing them: followed all instructions -- separate room for kitten B, scent exchange using face cloths, small doses of contact. (Of course, separate food and water bowls and litter boxes.) Extra attention to kitten A, treats at meeting times, even put up a screen door between hall and kitten B's room so they could see each other. Additionally, have been using Feliway spray and plug in, with little result.

Kitten A, if allowed in same space as kitten B, will jump on kitten B's back, and roughly bite her -- not just on the neck but also back, legs and even ears. Sometimes, while she has her in a choke hold she may also lick her, but usually just dominates and bites! Kitten B gets in a defensive or submissive posture when confronted by kitten A or just hides, which is not her normal demeanor.

Kitten A is selectively friendly toward people and though fostered well and given LOTS of attention by all of us, is aloof and sometimes quite grumpy. She does not scratch, but may nip us from time to time. Kitten B is sweet and friendly, chirps greetings and LOVES attention from humans, but her lovely outgoing personality seems to be changing as a result of the assaults by kitten A.

I DO NOT want to relinquish either kitten, but I need some real guidance. Thanks for any and all suggestions!

RESPONSE:

Kimber:

As we see it, there are 2 likely possibilities. Kitten A may be jealous and is truly being mean to kitten B. Or, this is normal kitten behavior and it just seems mean.
If kitten A has not been spayed yet, then this is the reason she is acting the way she is. At 7 months, she is sexually mature and if not spayed will be naturally more aggressive toward both kitten B and you. If she has been spayed then this may be how she learned to play with others when she was little.

Kitten B is behaving normally. As the younger, it is natural that she will be submissive to kitten A. Once she gets older, she will start to give as good as she gets and the 2 kittens may play-fight and seem to you like they are going to kill each other. This is very normal and as long as there is no blood drawn, let it happen. It's how they learn.
While waiting for kitten B to get little older, more confident, and able to hold her own with kitten A, you need to help kitten A expend some of her pent up kitten energy by playing with her several times a day. Use a fishing pole type toy or toss a ball, whatever type of toy she prefers, and play til she is exhausted. 10 to 15 minutes 3 or 4 times a day can do wonders to calm kitten aggression. A feeder ball with tasty treats will also be useful to keep her occupied while you are away.
During play, kitten B may try to jump in or may just sit on the sidelines and watch. Either is normal so let her be as involved as much as she wants.
Keep talking sweetly to both of them and don't let yourself get upset. The kittens will sense your distress and kitten A may become more aggressive and kitten B may hide even more. If you stay calm no matter what, your sense of calm will transmit to the little ones and help with their feelings of security.
Hang in there and be patient. They will probably grow up to be best buddies!

Donna
House Full Cats Mom