Do Cats Get Jealous?

Once you become a cat owner, it's like opening the door to the world of pets. Before long, many find themselves unable to resist bringing home a second cat or even a dog. While having multiple pets may increase the amount of work—like grooming and caring for them—it also multiplies the joy of pet ownership. Some pet owners may notice that, after bringing a new pet into the home, their cat seems to get "jealous" or even throws little temper tantrums. During these times, it's essential for the owner to continue grooming and comforting the cat, while also making sure the cat has time to adjust and avoid developing negative feelings.

Firstly, a cat’s “jealousy” is often a display of territorial behavior. Just like dogs and other pets, cats are territorial creatures, claiming ownership of their beds, grooming tools, toys, and other belongings. For cats, it’s less about fearing that a new pet will affect their owner’s attention but more about whether the new arrival poses a threat to their personal space and security. Whether the newcomer is a dog or another cat, the transitional period is very important. Secondly, during the adjustment phase, it’s crucial to provide extra comfort for the cat, such as grooming and massaging, to help them adapt to the change. Cats rely heavily on scent to recognize their environment. If there’s a sudden unfamiliar smell, like that of another pet, it can make a cat feel uneasy or even resentful. Before the new pet officially moves in, try arranging intermittent meetings between the two to help them get used to each other’s scent. This can help calm the resident cat and reduce stress for the new pet. When a cat seems to "scare" the newcomer, it’s more about the intrusion of unfamiliar scents, which makes the cat feel insecure. A gradual introduction, along with grooming and comforting from the owner, can help the cat feel more at ease.

Of course, at all times, the key is to treat both the old and new pets fairly and equally. When you groom the new cat, don’t forget to groom the original cat as well. This applies to feeding, playing, or using pet toys—everything should be consistent between the two pets. Cat owners know that cats are highly sensitive and perceptive, and they can tell when their owners are behaving differently. A cat might not get "jealous" out of envy, but if the owner focuses only on the new pet, the resident cat’s feelings of dignity might be hurt. The owner should make sure that each pet has their own space, grooming routines, and feeding habits, ensuring both are treated with equal love and care. Over time, the resident cat will eventually accept the new housemate. So, has your little kitty ever gotten "jealous"? If so, remember to comfort them with some grooming and massage to win back their affection!