male cat agression

Question
My 3 year old neutered male cat goes to a neighbor's door step and waits for their neutered female cat to come out.  Then he attempts to mount her and scratches her. No serious injuries yet, but we're worried that it will result in some. The neighbors have tried spraying him with water but this does not chase him away.  Both cat owners want our cats to be able to go outside, but we need to find a way to make the male leave the female alone.

Answer

Myra

There are quite a few neutered cats (usually starting about 3 years old) that start showing tomcat behavior. 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. I have been told about neutered males that will hump 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. He should quit doing it after a while.

Until mating season is over, or all females in the area are bred I would work out a schedule with the neighbor. Keep your cat in when their's is out, and vice versa.

Tabbi