Why is my senior cat suddenly hiding from the younger one?

Question

My two cats suddenly don't get along! my older cat whos around 17 has gotten along okay with our younger cat since we introduced her as a kitten around 4 years ago. Now shes acting very territorial and scared and hiding from the younger cat. what could be going on? Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 10 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

When there is a sudden change in behavior from the normal, it could be due to a medical illness. Lucky may not be feeling well, and that's causing her to act aggressive towards the younger cat. I would have her seen by a vet for a health check, including a geriatric blood panel and urinalysis, to check if she is suffering from any health issues. Common health issues in senior cats include kidney failure, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and cancer. If a medical illness is found, the vet can discuss treatment options with you. Should Lucky be heathy, I would separate the cats, and slowly reintroduce them to each other. Take Lucky, and put her in her own room with her own food, water, and litter box. Keep the door closed, and for a few days, feed them both treats on other side of door so they associate each other's smell with a good experience. Then let the other cat in Lucky's room while she is in a cat carrier. They can smell each other, but not be in contact. If either becomes upset or show signs of aggression, remove the second cat from the room, and try again later. Praise them when they interact appropriately. When they are interacting well with each other through the carrier, you can let Lucky out of her room, and see how she interacts with the other cat. Praise them when they interact appropriately, and separate them with any sign of aggression or upset. I would get a cat tree with lots of shelves to give the cats vertical space to get away from each other. I would keep Lucky in her room when you go out until they are comfortable with each other.

Why is my senior cat suddenly hiding from the younger one?

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