Help! My Cats Aren’t Getting Along! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Dear Dr. Paola,
I have 3 cats Finn (14y), Cinnamon (8y), and Honey (4y). They get along well for the most part but my oldest and youngest really have the biggest struggle. My oldest will even hiss sometimes when my youngest walks near him. Why would this be and any tips to help?” – Alex
Quick Info about Finn and Cinnamon and Honey
It’s common for cats in a multi-cat household to experience occasional tension, especially with a significant age gap, as with Finn and Honey. Older cats like Finn often have less patience for younger cats’ playful or unpredictable behavior. Finn may feel his space is being invaded, or he might be dealing with age-related discomfort that makes him more irritable. Hissing is his way of communicating discomfort rather than aggression.
Alex, you can help improve their relationship by creating positive associations. Provide Finn with quiet, safe spaces where he can retreat without disturbance. Engage Honey in interactive play sessions to redirect her energy, reducing the chances of bothering Finn. Synthetic feline pheromone diffusers can also encourage a calmer environment. Reward peaceful interactions between them with treats or praise to reinforce positive behavior. If Finn’s hissing becomes more frequent or is paired with signs of pain, a veterinary check-up would be a good idea to rule out any health concerns.
Best wishes!
Dr. Paola