new kitten in the house. oldest cat very upset

by Amanda
(New York)

I just adopted a new kitten. I have 2 cats, one is about 5 (the alpha) the next about 4. (he's also epileptic, so takes drugs for that). They got on wonderfully well. The eldest cat was clearly the alpha, but they had perfectly great play fights, slept curled up together. The introduction of the kitten has turned things upside down. Now the older cat growls and snarls at everyone. He still purrs like an engine with me, but not so frequently as he previously did. I hate that he's not happy and fights hissing (not play rumbling). The kitten is cute and tries to be everyone's friend. He was also human fed from 2 weeks so is very affectionate. How do I get my eldest to accept the new kitten and rekindle his friendship with the slightly younger cat? I figured it would take time. They are all street cats (the eldest - now problem cat was on the streets for about 9 months, the other two only for weeks) Its been three weeks now.

RESPONSE:

Your older cats' routine has been disrupted and they don't like it. This is normal. Time will help. Kittens have lots of energy and your little one is probably bugging the 2 older cats. They all need more play time. Play allows cats to burn off excess energy which in turn makes them calmer. Play with the older ones seperate from the kitten and play with the kitten by himself. Give them treats when they are in the same room together and behaving. Don't expect all of the cats to get along until the kitten is much older. Some hissing and slapping is to be expected so be sure to keep an eye out for the little one's safety when they are together. Play solves many cat issues so let them play!

Donna - House Full Cats Mom