Nuetered Male

Question
I have a male cat that i got from a shelter. He is neutered, but we got a female kitten for Christmas that is about 4 months old. I saw him grab her by the back of the neck and look like he was trying to do something with her. Is that possible if he is neutered? Thanks for you help

Answer
Helene,

His behavior is common with alot of neutered males. They start showing tomcat behavior, usually starting about 3 years old. Some cats have a strong 'male mentality' and though they physically can't do anything they mentally can.

Usually the cause for this behavior is that the neutered cat smells a female in heat somewhere in the neighborhood (even if they are inside cats) and react to it.

Is your female kitten spayed? If not she may be going into heat and he is reacting to her. If she isn't I would get her done soon.

I have been told about neutered males that will hump or bite the neck of other cats in the family (as yours is doing) male or female, dogs, peoples legs and arms, and stuffed animals.

When he does that don't get mad at him or scold him because it's nature and he doesn't understand what he is doing wrong. But also don't pet him because that can get him more stimulated. Try to distract him with food or toys. A pet laser light (from PetSmart, Petco, etc.) is an excellent distraction.

I hope this answered your question.