Mon, Feb 8th 2010, 09:17 GMT

You need to be a 24/7 advocate for your 2 yr. old. The kitten is mounting him because it feels it's dominant over the 2 yr. old. and that's not acceptable because the 2 yr. old was there first. You need to step in as the "pack leader" and divert the kittens attention. Kittens are a pain in the butt to older cats and most will tolerate it just so long and then strike out. Don't correct the older cat for hissing or swatting if you are. That's very important in setting up the heirarchy in your home. If your 2 yr. old knows you support him, he'll be more apt to correct the kitten when he needs to. Get a can of air from the office supply store. I've learned this is more effective than the water and don't spray it near the older cat as you're sending the message to the older one as well. You may need to separate the two for a while to let the older one get his bearings back and give him more time with you. His self-confidence is at an all-time low now and he needs to have it built back up.

ANSWERED BY

Izadore (Izzie)

My 8 month kitten will not stop bothering my laid back 2 year old cat! Answers at Dogster Answers.