the cats i used to know?

by lisa
(denver)

we took in 4 stray kittens six years ago and 3 have lived in peace the entire time, until now. the other one lives in my sons room because she doesnt get alongwith the others. we have been letting her out with them hoping to end this and yesterday she and another got into a tiff. now the 2 males want to kill each other and its insane how they act like they are just strange enemy cats when they have shared everything their whole life. i am worried,confused,mad and getting very tired of this stress. what do i do and is this normal? Please help

RESPONSE:

This type of behavior is quite normal even amoung siblings that have grown up together. It is likely that they are bored and have found the game of chase a good way to burn off some excess energy. And it is usually the cat that will run that becomes the target. When she is not available, the boys then start in on each other. They need lots of high up places and cubbies to get away from each other when they want to. And they need more play time. Play will burn off excess energy and help build confidence. Play with them until they are exhausted. A tire cat is a happy cat. And a tired cat will not have the energy to chase after another cat. Play with them then offer treats. When you notice that they are starting in on each other, pull out a string toy, toss a ball or fuzzy mouse, etc., and distract them from each other. We keep toys stached all over the house just for this purpose. Also, don't get upset when they start in on each other. Your increased level of stress increases their feelings of stress and makes them want to attack each other even more. Just stay calm, pull out a toy and talk to them calmly. Act like it doesn't bother you and they will stay calmer. Try increasing their play time and see if it helps.

Donna - House Full Cats Mom