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 have three cats -- a one-year-old named Kisses, a 7.5-month-old kitten named Candie and another 6.5-month-old kitten named Malibu. Kisses' brother, Cupcake, just recently passed away. Kisses meows and carries a frog toy that Cupcake always played with. She also tries to take care of the other two kittens. What is Kisses doing when she meows with the toy in her mouth? Is that normal?

A: I'm so sorry about the loss of your precious kitty, Cupcake. Your cat, Kisses, is displaying very normal behavior, although it's unsettling for you, I'm sure. Actually, I believe there are two separate behaviors here.

First, it's very normal for cats to mourn the loss of a companion. It's not unusual for the surviving cat to go around searching for her companion, yowling, or even sleeping in his favorite spots. It's also extra confusing for a cat because she doesn't understand why her owner has become so sad.

The way to help her through this is to be as casual and light as possible. Engage in play sessions, hold her but don't clutch her or cry in her presence. Basically, let her see that most of her world is the same. If you hold her and get emotional, she'll become alarmed and think this situation is the end of the world. When it looks as if she's walking around the house looking for Cupcake, distract her with a play session, play a cat-interest video for her, or set up a fun activity (such as opening a paper bag and placing a toy inside).

The second behavior of carrying a toy around may be related to her attempts at looking for Cupcake, but it can also be a typical cat behavior of carrying "prey" back to a safe place. If this is a toy that Cupcake often played with, Kisses may have wanted it but never had the opportunity. When a cat captures a prized prey, she may carry it around and meow as a warning to others not to attempt to steal it from her.

With time and TLC, you'll be able to help Kisses through this difficult time.