The new little gal is mighty fierce!

by Neetee
(Edmonton, Canada)

Two years ago we adopted two little kitten brothers. We've enjoyed watching them grow and play and couldn't be happier we adopted. Recently, due to a high volume of cats waiting for adoption at our local SPCA, we decided to adopt another boy cat, who is two. All three guys fell into their new routine and we thought we were quite lucky that our new fellow fit right in. A little over a week ago, we decided to return to adopt another cat we couldn't stop thinking about - a 3 year old girl. She's quite loveable and loves attention from my son and I; however, the hissing with the other cats hasn't stopped and she is now boldly chasing them whenever they come too near for her liking. Oddly enough though, she likes to sleep close by the latest fellow we adopted, but will wait until he's asleep. She's very tiny, compared with my other three boys - is she feeling intimidated (although you wouldn't think so when you see her take off after one of them). One of my guys is getting so stressed, he started heaving, but didn't throw up and calmed down immediately when I started talking to him. All three guys already have scratches on their nose or ears and they seem to be perpetually hiding. Please note that because they were all adopted from the SPCA, they've all been spayed. I don't want to give up on her, but I don't want my guys to suffer either. I look forward to any and all suggestions.

RESPONSE:

She is feeling scared and intimidated by the other cats. They were there first and in essence, she is the interloper in their territory. She is trying to find her place in the only way she knows how - by doing unto others BEFORE they can do unto her! Not necessarily logical by our standards but very cat like.
Offer more interactive play to help her burn off the energy caused by her anxiety. This will also help all of them build self confidence. (Click on the CAT PLAY link on the left for more info.)
Keep treats handy and toss them to her as well as the other cats to help them associate good things with each other.
Try using Spirit Essences or Bach Flower Essences (Click the links to the left for more info) to help everybody calm down and adjust to the changes better. Use them in their water and use the rub method for your little girl.
Remember, they have been through a lot in their short lives and being in the shelter then coming to a new home can be very stressful. It will take some time for them to adjust to their new situation and feel secure and confident again. A week is just not enough adjustment time, especially for your little girl. She may have had some bad experiences with other cats in her past and being aggressive is how she learned to cope.
Try the suggestions, be patient and understanding, and give her time. She may never be best buddies with the boys but from what you describe, I expect she will learn to trust and not feel so threatened by them within a few weeks.

Donna
House Full Cats Mom