Kitten Behavior Development

by Stan Beck

from: happyday.dk

A truly balanced well-balanced and well-adjusted cat is one that has been properly socialized.

A fearful attitude toward people is often transmitted from Momma cat to Baby kitten.  If Momma is fearful and distrustful of people, then she passes that predisposition right on to her babies.

It is imperative, along with feeding a kitten, to bond with him/her by petting, talking, playing with your kitten.  This cannot be overstated.  You are attempting to overcome the genetically predisposed programming of fear of humans.

Although there is a great temptation to wean your kittens as quickly as possible, the natural process is typically about six to seven weeks.  Do not rush this.  In addition, kittens love to suckle with momma, even after they have been weaned - this is primarily for comfort.

It is also important for kittens to stay with their littermates, or other role-model cats for about 12 weeks.  It makes sense that your kitten needs this interaction to learn how to act like a kitten/cat.  Kitten play is important because it increases coordination and the important social skill of learning limits.

When possible, a kitten should be held between 15 and 40 minutes per day, especially during its first seven weeks.  During this first 7 week period, they are very receptive to stimulus and input so lots of positive interaction is to their (and yours) ultimate benefit.

Cat Behavior
Cat Behavior

Tags: Kitten Pictures - with Humans, Kitten Pictures - Action, Articles, Cat Health, Funny Cat, Cat Behavior