Have you heard the saying "children with mothers are like treasures"? Recent studies show that this is also true for kittens! Previously, I shared my favorite cat behaviorist, Dr. Mikel, who has released a new book that received enthusiastic responses. Today, I want to share findings from another researcher regarding the impact of maternal presence on kittens.
Research indicates that kittens who lose their mothers before weaning are more likely to exhibit stress-related behaviors. Throughout their growth and even into adulthood, these kittens tend to feel more anxious compared to those raised with their mothers. A new study in 2023 further confirms this: if kittens are separated from their mother and siblings at just nine weeks old, it can significantly affect their behavior.
The study involved 62 kittens, categorized as follows:
- 32 kittens adopted with their mother
- 14 kittens raised only with siblings but without their mother
- 16 kittens adopted without their mother
Each kitten underwent stress tests, revealing that those without a mother were more prone to restlessness and excessive vocalization.
As we enter the peak season for stray cat breeding, I want to remind everyone: if you come across adorable kittens on the street, please don't rush to take them home. It's crucial to first locate their mother! Generally, if a kitten appears fluffy and clean, it indicates that the mother is caring for it and has merely stepped away temporarily. If you touch the kitten during this time, the mother may not recognize her baby due to the change in scent and could reject or neglect it.
If you genuinely wish to help these kittens, the best approach is to capture both the mother and her kittens together. This ensures they remain united during placement and adoption, allowing the mother to continue nursing, bonding, and educating her young ones. This way, the kittens will develop a sense of security and socialization necessary for healthy growth, leading to stable and low-stress adult cats!
