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Why does my adult cat groom new kitten then hiss and swat at her?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Female | spayed | 6 years and 4 months old | 10 lbs

I introduced a new kitten to my adult cat both female. She hisses any time the baby gets too close or tries to play with her. But, sometimes the adult cat grooms the kitten, but if it tries to groom her back or sometimes not even do anything at all the adult cat will hiss growl and swat, even during grooming. I don't understand. I though grooming was a very good sign.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on November 26th, 2019

Grooming is a good sign and most cats will come around with time. This link may help: https://www.petcoach.co/article/bringing-home-a-new-cat-or-kitten/ You may also take a towel and rub each cat with the towel a few times. This will help them to smell alike and may help make things easier. Don't let the kitten harass Misty either. I hope this helps and please feel free to past any additional questions.

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