Kitten Behavior
A Look Into Kitten Behavior
Kitten behavior is much like that of a small child, and development follows a very like course as well, only on a much more swift time line. Infancy is a time of growth spurts and bonding for the kitten, just as human infancy serves this same purpose. Kitten behavior begins to take on its own quirks and twists when the young feline begins to explore and investigate, which usually occurs around three weeks of age. This will begin slowly as he starts to hold his head forward and learn how to use his legs. Without mama there to guide him, he may lose his sense of direction and forget how to get home, even if home is only a few feet away. If you watch closely, you will see his cries for help answered as his mother picks him up and takes him back to the den.
Once he has gained a bit more control over his head, legs, and sense of direction, which usually happens by the fifth week of life, kitten behavior becomes much more mischievous and entertaining for both his litter mates and for his mother. If mama has been liter trained, the little ones should begin to follow her into the box by the time they are six weeks old, and the rest of the process should take care of itself. Kitten behavior will continue to revolve around exploration and mimicry of the adult feline, so having a mother with great house manners will be to his advantage as he grows up.
Between the ages of six weeks and six months, kitten behavior will change very little. Where once he could only leap two inches into the air and land clumsily on his face, he will practice execution of this key hunting skill until he can clear over a foot of air and land gracefully on all fours. The functions of the feline body are extraordinary, and their athleticism is astounding when compared to our own. Kitten behavior within the litter takes on a very competitive and close quarter, each of them working to be top cat while depending on each other for warmth and safety in numbers once play time is over.
It is important to alter some types of kitten behavior, especially when playtime is directed toward a human rather than toward a fellow feline. Biting and clawing are natural methods of play and discovery for your baby feline, but this can be quite uncomfortable for those without fur. Fuzzy and crinkly toys are a great way to redirect this kitten behavior during playtime, diverting the energy of the piercing teeth and claws to an object while enjoying the bond of play.