The relationship between Luna and Lily is getting somewhat problematic (pix added #9)

[rosethecopycat]

is it just me, or does it seem that female cats seem to have harder times getting along with other female cats? they seem more apt to be jealous too.

Known as Female Feline Rivalry.
My friend is going through this now too. Two female cats, close in age (within 5 years) tend to have problems, even if they get along initially, or even for years, these things crop up with the girls.

I would try vanilla on the base of their tails. Both cats.
The brushing is another good idea.

I don't think your situation is really desperate, at this point. They just need to relearn some behavior, and change some habits and work it out.

[Kirsten]

Vanilla on the base of their tails? Never heard about that, but it could be worth a try...

I don't think your situation is really desperate, at this point

No, I don't think so either, but I'm sure it lessens at least Luna's life quality to a certain degree.

Kirsten

[barncat]

If Lily is about 3 or 4 now, in a feral cat community (if she survived) she would be establishing her own space, probably still connected to her mom, but already an experienced "queen" of her own brood... She is pushing to establish herself as a dominant personality. It doesn't matter all that much that she is fixed and has no kittensm she's still in the I'm as grown as you mom... so I get to be boss sometimes mode. Usually mother/daughters will work it out without too much drama. (My girls will bat each other and swear and then cuddle down...Except Amelia but that's another story.) Give them both plentyof love but I would advise petting Luna first and giving her attention that shows you (as the queen mother) support her postion.

[Kirsten]

barncat, that is making a lot of sense! Even though Luna is not Lily's biological mother, she had the mother role right from the start. There were several moments the past months when I got the impression Lily would claim the alpha status from Luna. Also, she may feel that Luna is not doing well with all her bladder problems.

Kirsten