Strategy Guide for Jealous Cat Behavior

Although the scientific community debates whether cats experience jealousy, many cat owners testify to jealous-like behaviors in their cats. The main cause of this behavior is a situation that changes a cat's daily routine or the amount of affection it receives, such as the addition of a new pet or baby. The best way of dealing with jealousy is to reduce the amount of distress your cat is feeling towards the new situation.

  1. Jealousy Reactions

    • Jealousy may exhibit itself in different ways depending on the personality of your cat. Cats may react to a new situation with angry hissing, growling or swatting. A cat may also stop eating or become clingy. A jealous cat concerned about its territory can turn to claiming its turf by spraying urine, according to Petplace.com.

    New Pet

    • When you introduce a new pet to your home, take a few steps to reduce jealousy and increase the chance of a smooth introduction. For the first few days, keep the new pet in one room separated from the resident cat. The animals will be able to smell each other̵7;s scents but not directly interact. Buy new toys and items for the new cat so that he doesn't go for the resident cat's items.

      To help the new animal adjust to its new home without further raising jealousy, trade them, putting the resident pet in the secluded room while the new pet explores the house to help them both adjust to the other̵7;s scent. If the resident cat is particularly territorial and struggling to accept a new pet, try using a product that mimics a cat̵7;s facial pheromones. These are available as sprays and plug-ins and can act as a comfort to a stressed cat.

    New Baby

    • Introducing a new baby into the home can also cause anxiety for a cat. A new baby will most likely result in a loss of daily routine and a reduction of caregiver attention for the cat. Plus, a new baby brings many new smells and sounds. As much as possible, keep the cat̵7;s daily life as stable as possible during the pregnancy and after the baby comes home. Before the baby arrives, start introducing as many of the new sounds and smells as possible. Get a recording of baby sounds to play. Use baby lotions and powders on your skin to get the cat accustomed to the new smells. Give the cat access to the nursery prior to the baby̵7;s arrival. If possible, ask friends with babies to visit. Allow the cat to sniff and interact with the babies, but maintain close supervision of the interaction. Provide treats and other positive reinforcement if the cat avoids jealous behaviors.