Cat fighting :-(

[mmgregorio]

I've adopted a cat 2 years ago, his name is Patinhas (he was only 2 months old when I got him). He is spayed. Recently, I've adopted another male cat (complete) called Meu, whose age is undetermined (problably around 1 year).

I've introduced them to each other and provided space for the newcomer, with his toilet, food, bed, etc. For a couple of weeks, they were separated by a glass door, so they were able to see each other and smell. Meu was initially less comfortable with the idea of having a mate, but it seemed he got used to it. when I was home, I'd open the door and let them together, without any problem. Patinhas was afraid of him but last week started chasing him, which I considered playing.

Patinhas would sleep with Méu and hang around Méu all the time. Méu doesn't like it much but at least he didn't hurt Patinhas. Actually, yesterday he was licking Patinhas in the face.

Anyway, today they got in a major fight. Both were making noises and Patinhas was crawled, full of fear. I had to separate them, using water and grabing Patinhas out of the area.
Méu hurt him with his paw and now Patinhas seems to be in a bit of pain (if I feel he's not ok I'll call his vet).

Since Méu is not spayed (neutered?) I think the situation might get better when I go to the vet to do it (November 19th). Am I getting false expectations? Do you have any tips for me until then?

Thanks

Maria

[barncat]

Neutering will very likely help... It well may have been play that got out of hand when one wanted to stop and the other didn't.... For now I'd go back to the seperate quarters for a bit and re-introduce them under supervision until you know they are ok with each other. Most times they work it out. Give them both space and affection and try again. Good luck. Male hormones are very likely a factor and getting those out is very likely to help...

[jenluckenbach]

Neutering will very likely help... It well may have been play that got out of hand when one wanted to stop and the other didn't.... For now I'd go back to the seperate quarters for a bit and re-introduce them under supervision until you know they are ok with each other. Most times they work it out. Give them both space and affection and try again. Good luck. Male hormones are very likely a factor and getting those out is very likely to help...
I agree 100%.

[Ally Cat's Mommy]

I agree with the others that neutering may help.

There is also Feliway plug-ins and sprays which help some cats to calm down, as well as "rescue remedy" which is a natural medication. Otherwise your vet may be able to prescribe something to calm the aggressive cat?

I also have two cats who fight. I try to keep their claws clipped too so they don't hurt each other with every argument.

Best of luck, and please keep us updated

[mmgregorio]

Thanks. Today Méu skipped when I was getting some stuff in the kitchen and almost immeditaly searched for Patinhas. The latter was in submissive positiion and started howling (it seemed like it). I got Méu and put him in my room...

Now, Méu is in my bedroom and Patinhas is loose (he isn't used to being in a single room , only during the night). It seems this wil take longer than I expected :-(

I also clipp their nails because I was afraid that they hurt each other... Even with short nails they seem to do it.

Thanks for your comments. I feel more hopeful now and will talk to their vet about the options (calming down Méu, etc).

I'll keep up posted.

Maria

[mmgregorio]

Hi again. Things haven't changed around here. Recently I found out that Méu, one who is more aggressive, becomes excited and wets things when I pet him :confused:

I'm still waiting for the right time to neuter Méu...Patinhas had an infection in one of the wounds and I had to go to the vet several times last week. Money is short this month but I have to find a way...

I'll keep you posted.

Maria