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Why is my new kitten attacking my senior dog while he sleeps?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 23 days old | 12 lbs

I have a 13 yr old mini snauzer(Guy).When we got Guy at 8 wks old we had an adult cat(Mow).Guy & Mow were friends from day 1.They played &'groomed each other.Sadly,Mow died a couple years ago & Guy has developed severe separation anxiety.I have to get a sitter for him just to run to the grocery store.2 mths ago we got a kitten(Dittles)hoping a new friend would help Guy.It went well the 1st few wks but then Dittles started attacking Guy when he's sleeping.If he doesn't stop I can't keep him.Help!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on August 24th, 2017

Ditties is young and being bratty. Play with him a lot with toys and try a laser pointer to get him tired. He probably has extra energy and wants to play with Guy. I would also go ahead and get Dittles neutered as this will help calm him down. Until Dittles gets a little older you may want to separate him when Guy is sleeping. They should become great friends over time so be patient. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you get answers to your veterinary questions.

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