Why do cats pick on each other?

I have 3 cats and one of them picks on the smaller one. Maybe it's the issue of feeling important. Or perhaps the cat is just feeling too much cabin fever and is taking it out on your oldest. I'd try to comfort her so she won't keep hiding.

Pet cats have the same instincts as wild cats,when there is more than 1,they have a 'leader',You're older cat was probably the leader at one time but now is getting older and more weaker than before and therfore,the 'new' cat....the one picking on him is trying to push him out of the way and take over leadership.....this happens with all animals,wild or domestic.....hope this helps

Your cat looks a lot like mine. I have two ragdolls that are brother and sister, and 6 months old. They "fight" a lot, and it's usually in good fun but every now and then the bigger one seems to be going a bit overboard and the other runs away and I have to kind of yell to calm down and luckily he does. I really don't know why they do that, so I guess I can't help much. Sorry. =(

It's territorial. Cats in groups tend to act like prides of lions. The one attacking is going for senior cat. (Occasionally there is a personal element, but usually it's the hierarchy thing.) Female cats tend to be a bit cooler usually, but obviously not, this time. Make it clear that the attacks aren't going to be tolerated. Banish the attacker every time she does that. That will reassure the victim, and explain that you're the one making the rules. That, they will get. The other cats will understand that attacking isn't allowed, too, and will tend to shun the attacker.

You should not tolerate that behavior, punish him so he can understand attacking is not allowed and the others will get it too.

i think for the same reason we people pick on each other

They are just playing but their claw is so sharp that's why they make hurt sometimes.

I never had more than one cat so I don't understand them. Maybe they are a bit like dogs. I always found that there was one domineering one among mine. I have also found this to be the case with my tropical fish.

I only have two but the kitten does this to my older one and also to my doxie. I think it is his playful nature. I will take wander's advice and refuse to let it happen. I do not think the dog mines so much but my female is most likely pregnant and I have got to get him to leave her alone. Thank for this discussion, I think it may help me out oo.

I don't necessarily think they are picking on each other. Maybe they are just playing around. Maybe like a hide and seek thing. But I do feel a little bad if one is always losing. :-( Hopefully she will win soon!