Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Why is my cat isolated and not eating after a new kitten arrived?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 3 months old

Help! Luna became isolated after this new cat. But she play with her but doesn't want to eat when the other cat in the room and she doesn't want to play with me nor come near me. Before the baby kitten comes Luna was normal. So please tell me exactly what is happening.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Elizabeth

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on September 27th, 2019

Cats can become stressed by other cats but they do often work things out eventually. There are a few things you can adjust to help decrease stress.

Cats are sensitive to the type of litter, size of the box and location of the box. If you have more cats, you need 1 litter box per cat + 1 additional box. You should also have a litter box on every floor of the house. This article discusses different types of litter and litter boxes:
https://www.petcoach.co/article/cat-litter-finding-the-right-fit-for-your-cat/

In general though, cats prefer large, uncovered litter boxes, clay-based clumping litter that is scoped every day and a private, quiet location. If you have other cats or dogs, if they can access the litter box, it may cause Luna to be afraid that she could find herself trapped in the box. Cats are a prey species in the wild and they still retain those instincts.

Here is a great article about cat's instinctual needs:
https://www.petcoach.co/article/why-every-cat-needs-a-place-to-climb/

Use a Feliway diffuser, set aside 30 minutes a day for vigorous play and/or switch the food to Royal Canin Calm. Most cats response best to combination therapy. The veterinarian can also prescribe medications which can help with anxiety. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button