A little one retaliates

"Dear Cocoa,

I am a new feline, born just a few weeks ago, and I haven't had much time with my mother because she ran off with the butcher before I was even fully weaned.  I spent a little time in a foster home where people fed me but didn't offer much comfort.  Then I was invited to live at the home of a very feline friendly pet and jumped at the chance.  But now, I wonder if I made the right decision.  You see, the pet has others that she invited in and they are big and well set in their ways.  They get angry when  our pet spends time with me and they beat me up when she isn't around.  Should I leave?  

Signed Tired of the pummeling"

"Dear Tired of the pummeling,

No, you should not leave the home, you should take advantage of the fact that you are still very young.  As a youngling, your pet will favor you above those who are well-established in the home.  When she is around, pounce on the others often in what appears to be play but is actually full-out assault.  If they hurt you, your pet will intervene.  When they go after you when you are alone, remind them of the mock-play and offer to be gentler if they stop attacking you when the pet is gone.  It may take a bit, but keep up the action (the more, the better) and soon all will quiet down and you will be allowed to live without further attacks.  You might even get the choice sleeping areas because the others will fear retaliation from the pet if they don't give in to you.  Once all is set, enjoy your new-found freedom for all it is worth.

Signed Cocoa"