u/averyweezer

My girlfriend and I adopted a 3-year-old cat (Mango) about 6 months ago because we wanted our resident cat (Simon, 6) to have a companion. For the first few months everything seemed good. They played together, slept near each other, and Simon would even groom Mango. But for the last 2 months, Mango has started constantly chasing Simon, even when Simon is clearly trying to get away. Simon meows loudly/jumps onto high places to escape, but Mango still follows him. The biggest issue is that Mango waits outside the litter box and pounces (not necessarily aggressively, seems like to play?) on Simon almost every time he comes out, and now Simon seems anxious about using the litter box.

We contacted Mango’s previous owner, who said she hadn’t personally seen this behavior, but her mom mentioned Mango used to chase another cat around the house as well. We’ve also had other issues with Mango that have made us question whether our home is the right fit. He scratches our carpets and has damaged our leather chairs despite having various scratching posts/cardboard scratchers/sissal, and will yell loudly in the morning (we have ignored this behavior for months and it’s still going on; they have automatic feeders as well).

We’re planning to talk to our vet before making any decisions, but realistically, can medication even help with a situation like this if it’s more of a personality/social issue? We tried Feliway for the last 2 months but have seen no change. We got Mango so Simon would have a friend, but now Simon seems less happy than he was before.

We also feel torn because we don’t think we’re able to give Mango the affection he deserves. His behavior with Simon on top of other behavioral issues have made it difficult for us to bond with him. We’re worried he might be happier in a different home.

Has anyone been in a similar situation? I’d really appreciate any advice