On Thu, 13 Nov 2008 14:22:11 -0800 (PST), honeybunch
wrotd:

So "S" (odd name for a cat) is just doing what "S" always wanted to do
but was prevented by 'D." I dont think you have to assume that "S"
is distraught over being relieved of "D." "S" is merely rejoicing
after a lifetime of oppression and unfortunately hasn't much time left
to do so.

Names are just adopted for this posting. D for deceased. S for
surviving.

I have now heard 2 kinds of theory for this behaviour. Most say S is
grieving and so do what the other used to do, but you are not alone in
saying that he is now using the opportunity to do what he was not able
to do before. One person told me that group animals have an
"agreement" between themselves as to what each is allowed to do---more
notably in relation to territory.

However, I should have also mentioned that when my dog died 4 years
ago(having been with the 2 cats for 13 years), cat S showed a
distinctively agitated expression(fear? sad?---purring with a flared
up tail) when he could not see the dog at his usual place the next
morning , as my wife tried to tell him in human language what had
happened.

Well....may be a particularly sensitive cat.

K. Wong
Hong Kong