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My neutered male cat humps other cats and toys. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Ragdoll | Male | neutered

My 2 year old male neutered cat keeps humping my other male neutered cat. He has also started doing it to toys. Is this normal? And how can I stop this behaviour? Should I intervene?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 21st, 2017

Hello, & yes, this may be normal behavior for a young neutered cat. In most cases it is an appeasing behavior, or attention seeking. If when Duncan does this & it helps him settle, & he is doing no damage to himself, toys or the environment, then let him be. He may need more enrichment & toys to occupy him, using food toys are a good idea. Most cats quit within a few minutes. Do not punish him or take toys away as this may make the behavior worse. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 2nd, 2019

    Some cats will masturbate even if they are neutered and it can be a normal behavior. If Ninja also sprays or displays other behaviors that would be seen in an intact male you may want to have your vet check him - occasionally a remnant of testicular tissue can remain after neutering.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 3rd, 2017

    Male cats become sexually mature in their first year of life, anytime after six months of age, so this behavior will not be related to sexual maturity. It sounds like Marty is masturbating, which neutered cats will do simply because it feels good to them. It is normal for cats to do this, but I can understand not wanting him to do that on you. The minute he starts this behavior on you, immediately remove him from your lap, place him on the ground, and ignore him. By doing this, you are showing him that this behavior on you is not allowed, and he will not get love and attention until he stops doing it.

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