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Cats/Queens behavior towards kittens
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Question
Hi
My cat gave birth to 4 healthy kittens about 4 weeks ago and despite my worries the queen (lemon) has been a good ol’mom to the kittens even though these are her first litter. But for the last couple of days both me and my girl friend have noticed that now the kittens are running about by themselves she seems to get a bit too excited almost and when one of the kittens walks by she’ll grab it with both paws and sometimes bites and kicks with her hind legs! The kittens don’t squeak any more than when she normally grooms them so she mustn’t be hurting them but it is very disconcerting when she pounces over to them, like with some of her toys. basically is this normal healthy behaviour?
Hi Charlie,
Yes this is fine. The mom is just teaching them they shouldn't be doing something that they are. She isn't using her nails when she uses her legs. It's like holding and spanking them. It looks a little scary but this is normal behavior. Just keep an eye out to make sure she doesn't get over excited with the kittens. You'll know that happens when the kittens yell. Good luck with your new family.
Ciao, Karen
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thanks for the info. This is my first time having to deal with kittens and I worry myself by looking stuff up on the internet and reading things like queen who have hormonal imbalances so their maternal instinct doesn’t kick in and allsorts. Thanks for your time | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Karen Craft
Expertise
I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!
Experience
I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care.
Some thoughts to carry with you.
A Cat's 10 Commandments
My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.
Give me time to understand what you want of me.
Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.
Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you.
Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.
Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.
Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you.
If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong.
Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old.
On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so.
Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.
Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.
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