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Question

strange behavior


Sent to Pet Experts May 16, 2005 1:09 p.m.

My inside cat escaped and ran away six weeks ago. I found him two days ago. He is very skinny, but otherwise seems to be in good heath and happy to be home. He is almost two years old and was neutered when he was young. I don't know about mating rituals with cats, but last night he kept strateling my leg and appeared to be trying to "mate". When I would push him away or off of me, he became aggressive and tried to bite me!! This is unsual behavior for him...he never acted that way before he ran away. Could this behavior be caused by living on the streets for six weeks and do you think it will continue? I'm wondering what, if anything, I can do about it. Thank you.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status: Closed   Value: $5   
Answer
May 16, 2005 2:10 p.m. (1 hour and 1 minute later)
ACCEPTED Check Mark

 When a cat is thrust out into the world and they are unused to it, they quickly have to figure out how to be the more dominant male and how to get a position of "strength" with other cats.  They will usually do this by humping.  They will hump females AND males and it's usually not sexual at all. 

It sounds like he's still trying to maintain his "rank" even though he is home.  You should discourage and ignore the behavior.  This means, push him away and then ignore him for a while. 

He will soon settle back down and will become the nice kitty you once had.

Let me know if you still don't understand or if you have questions.

PictureTammy F.  -- Pet Care Expert -- 99% Positive Feedback on 5064 Pet Accepts
15+ years-Pet care, Veterinary shelter medicine and infectious disease, Behavior training, Rescue

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