So, my older male cat keeps holding his younger brother down by the back of his neck and moving his leg super fast. They’re both Sphynx, same parents, if that matters. The younger one sometimes cries, and this happens a few times a day. Anyone know if this is okay or if I should be worried?
Sounds like a dominance thing. Sometimes cats do this to establish hierarchy. Are they both neutered?
Gianna said:
Sounds like a dominance thing. Sometimes cats do this to establish hierarchy. Are they both neutered?
Yup, both neutered. I’ve heard it’s normal with male cats but wasn’t sure. Thanks!
Gianna said:
Sounds like a dominance thing. Sometimes cats do this to establish hierarchy. Are they both neutered?
Hierarchy behavior sounds right. My two males do the same thing, lol.
If they’re not hurting each other, it should be fine. Maybe spray a little water if it gets out of hand?
Faithjones said:
If they’re not hurting each other, it should be fine. Maybe spray a little water if it gets out of hand?
Oh, that’s a good idea! I didn’t even think of a spray bottle. Just a little water to break them up, right?
Faithjones said:
If they’re not hurting each other, it should be fine. Maybe spray a little water if it gets out of hand?
Yep, just a quick spray usually does the trick without stressing them out.
Honestly, my female cats do this sometimes too, especially when they’re trying to show who’s boss. Seems normal.
WilliamMia said:
Honestly, my female cats do this sometimes too, especially when they’re trying to show who’s boss. Seems normal.
Interesting! So it’s not just a male thing then?
WilliamMia said:
Honestly, my female cats do this sometimes too, especially when they’re trying to show who’s boss. Seems normal.
Nope, females can be bossy too, lol. Cats have their little social rituals!
If it’s not excessive or aggressive, it might just be play behavior. As long as they’re safe, you’re probably good.
Lovedog said:
If it’s not excessive or aggressive, it might just be play behavior. As long as they’re safe, you’re probably good.
Thanks! Yeah, I think the younger one just gets a bit annoyed sometimes.
Lovedog said:
If it’s not excessive or aggressive, it might just be play behavior. As long as they’re safe, you’re probably good.
Sounds like normal sibling stuff 
as long as they’re not actually hurting each other!
If one of them has a health issue, just keep an eye on it to make sure he’s not too stressed. Otherwise, all seems fine!
ChrisH said:
If one of them has a health issue, just keep an eye on it to make sure he’s not too stressed. Otherwise, all seems fine!
Good point! The older one has a heart issue, so we’re always watching them carefully.
ChrisH said:
If one of them has a health issue, just keep an eye on it to make sure he’s not too stressed. Otherwise, all seems fine!
You’re doing great! Cats can be funny with each other, but sounds like you’ve got it covered.