Is Your First Cat Jealous of the New Cat?

Bringing a new cat into the home of a well established cat is not an easy undertaking. But most cats are able to get used to one another and even become close companions and friends. But other cats never seem to adapt to the new cat and get along. Are they fighting or is it just an innocent wrestle? The following are signs to look out for if you suspect your first cat is jealous of the new cat and is trying to push the new cat away.

Is Your First Cat Jealous of the New Cat? Won't Share Food or Water

A jealous cat will be unwilling to share its food and water with the new cat. As the cat owner places the food and water in its usual spot, the established cat will likely run past the new cat and make sure it gets to the food and water bowls first before the new cat gets a chance to approach the bowls. Jealous cats are very territorial and will do all they can to keep the "usurper" away from what they view as theirs. Watch to see what happens when the new cat then manages to approach the food and water bowls. The first cat may glare at the newer cat and stiffen its body defensively or even approach the cat and try to pick a fight so that the new cat has no choice but to move away.

Whenever you see this, you must discourage your first cat from behaving so aggressively and physically place the new cat by the food and water if you have to just to make sure that the cat does not starve. Alternatively, use separate food and water bowls and set them up apart from each other so that the first cat feels more comfortable at mealtimes.

Is Your First Cat Jealous of the New Cat? Tries to Divert Attention Away from the New Cat

It is easy to tell if the first cat is jealous of the new cat when the cat owner lavishes attention on the new cat. The simple act of picking up the cat, stroking it and making a general fuss will be carefully observed by the first cat. He, in turn, will try to divert attention away from the new cat and will make it obvious that he too wants to be made a fuss of.