Hello, my name is Taylor and I have 3 cats. I am hoping you can help. I have had my boys the longest being 6 years and the youngest being 4 years now. They have gotten along just fine until a couple weeks ago I accidentally stepped on Mila going down the stairs and it scared him and he thought Buddah got him so he attacked Buddah, which then triggered Sammie to attack. I separated all 3 of them and reintroduced them slowly. Buddah and Mila are getting along again but Sammie attacks Buddah and is scared of Mila to the point it starts fights. I live in a small one bedroom apartment so Sammie is being kept in my closet for the time being and I feel terrible. Do you have any suggestions or thoughts on what I might be able to do. Thank you. Taylor
Hi Taylor,
The following advice provides some general guidelines, as understanding each cat's temperament and sensitivity to different stimuli is necessary.
Redirected aggression is usually fear-based, and it can be treated by separating all the cats and then reintroducing them while desensitizing and counter-conditioning the aggressor to the stimulus.
Keeping Sammie in the closet may cause him more distress, and projecting your guilt onto Sammie is unnecessary. It's essential to forgive yourself when accidents happen.
To reintroduce all three cats, install an SHRRL Reinforced Cat Screen Door (available on Amazon) to separate Sammie and Buddah & Mila, and create a calm environment by using a Feliway Diffuser, playing classical music or Pet Tunes Feline. If necessary, dim the lights as well during rest time.
It's also essential to ensure that the cats have escape routes, individual hiding spots, and structured enrichment, especially separate interactive playtime. Monitor each cat's body language to know when to proceed to the next step and when to take a step back if needed.
Please remember that resolution can take weeks to months; consult a cat behaviorist for professional help if necessary.
I hope that this advice helps and puts your mind at ease. Please keep us posted.
Best regards,
Melina