Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is my new kitten's wrestling with my older cat play or aggression?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3.7 lbs

I have recently introduced a new kitten into my home, he is 12 week a old, and I also have a 6 month old resident kitten. I've just started to introduce them and wanted to make sure their behaviour is normal and not aggressive. They're wrestling but I'm not sure if it's play or aggressive. They usually don't make any noise, but sometimes the smaller kitten meows as my resident cat is much larger than him.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 27th, 2017

This is an excellent question, and I love that you're being proactive about their relationship. It's hard to tell just looking at pictures, the first and last one look like good play and the middle looks a bit less playful. Meowing is not necessarily a problem, but if Loki sounds distressed or unhappy - he probably is. Signs of good play: Taking turns chasing/being chased Relaxed body posture Taking turns initiating No hissing Ears mostly up, not flattened on to the head Breaks in play occasionally You could ask your vet if you could email them a little video to get their input, since we don't have the video capacity here. Have fun with the new kitty!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 25th, 2018

    Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. It sounds as if Luna may be trying to establish dominance over your new kitten. This may take some time of them getting used to each other. I would recommend trying to gradually increase the time they are together but keep them separated for the time being. I would gradually introduce them to each other for longer periods of time over a period of 4 to 6 weeks. I would also recommend the Feliway products which can be found online quite easily or at your local pet store. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 16th, 2020

    This sounds like normal play. : ) I have 3 cats and they are always chasing eat other, growling, hissing and pouncing. Signs that they really do get along, are them sleeping together, licking and grooming each other, or them eating together (side by side). Cats that don't get along, can't stand to be in the same room with each other most of the time and will try to avoid physical contact by any means necessary. Best of luck with your new kitten and your cat moving forward. I hope that things continue to go well. Take care : )

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is my pet's occasional sneezing and eye crust a URI symptom?
Is your pet Barry occasionally sneezing or showing eye crust? A trusted vet offers insights on common respiratory concerns and when to seek professional advice.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How to keep a pet mom and her newborn babies warm and calm?
Support your pet mom and newborn babies! A certified vet offers advice on ideal room temperature, minimizing stress, and quiet intervention for food & water.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My hamster is suddenly bloated, angry, and biting. What should I do?
Is your Chinese dwarf hamster suddenly bloated, angry, and biting nonstop? A DVM explains pain signs and urges immediate vet care for his distended abdomen.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Training & Behavior
Why is my degu acting strange, lying flat, and barking at night?
Is your degu acting strange, lying flat, or barking at night? A licensed vet tech offers insights into potential causes like new mats, territorial stress, or injury.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored