Feline Behaviorist Pam Johnson-Bennett is the author of a number of award-winning and critically acclaimed books, including Think Like a Cat and Psycho Kitty. The innovative methods described in all her books are based on Pam's unique way of training by actually understanding the way a cat thinks. She makes numerous television appearances including CNN, Fox News Channel, and National Geographic specials, as well as being a popular guest on many nationally syndicated radio programs. She is now considered to be one of the leading experts on feline behavior.

Q: I need help! I adopted two kittens in late August and kept them "quarantined" for two and a half weeks. The first week I kept the door closed to the room they were in, and then the second week and a half I had the door cracked open a bit for them to see out and for my 16-year-old cat to see in. I thought I was doing everything right, but my older cat, Jordan, continuously charges (just a few steps) and then swats at the kittens! They'll just be sitting there, Jordan will walk by them, and then she'll just decide to swat at them. I don't believe she's made contact with them yet, but I'm worried, since it's been three weeks of swatting. How many more weeks before I should consult a professional about her behavior?

A: Congratulations on the new kittens! Your adult cat's behavior is very normal, because cats are territorial and it takes time for them to accept a newcomer into their environment.

You did the first part correctly by keeping the new kitties separate from your resident cat. The second part, though, involves giving the cats a reason to like one another. Instead of just letting your resident cat sees the kittens, make it a positive experience for her. The key is to do brief periods of positive exposure. Translation: bribery! Whenever you crack the door open and to let your cat see the kittens, offer Jordan a piece of a treat. Make the session short and sweet. If she's not food-motivated, you can offer a favorite toy. The trick is to show her that the presence of the kittens means more fun things for her.

When doing these sessions, make sure your cat and the kittens are far enough apart so no charging or swatting takes place. Gradually, you'll be able to increase the exposure time. But for right now, stick to numerous short sessions a day.