They say curiosity kills the cat, but I was really curious when someone through this question at me. So I went digging.
Ladies and gentlemen, I come to you with my findings!
You’ll find it interesting to know that cats are naturally aggressive. It’s almost like a second nature to them. However people tend to ignore this trait in cats than in dog, basically because they are smaller than dogs in size. So if a cat is trying to be aggressive to its owner, it can easily be handled.
But what is more appalling is the fact that this aggression isn’t just passed solely to the owner or humans in general. Cats attack other pets and this includes their kittens.
Here’s why;
The mother cat could be gnawing and kicking or just generally attacking her little cats in light of multiple factors. Probably the most well-known reasons are a strategy for harsh discipline, showing them who is in control (a who’s in charge situation), laying an out area, or some portion of her training cycle for her kittens.
But I’m you still some unanswered questions. Is it really normal for a cat to attack her kittens? Can there be a reason behind this behavior? Can it be considered a behavior abnormality? Stay glued to your screen to learn more about this!
Is it normal for a cat to attack their kittens?
Humans groom and grow their children till about 18 years minimum, unless the conditions tarry. This is why when we see cats attack their kittens, we’re hurt and it make us feel some sort of way.
In light of this, let’s not forget that cats are an entirely different species from humans in question and they have a different way of raising their kittens.
Study shows that an average street cat can live and fend for themselves more than a street dog would. So it’s safe to say that cats attack their kittens as a form of prepping and grooming of that kitten so they can grow up and become independent cats.
It’s no news to us that cats aren’t exactly the most compassionate pets out there, they do not crave touch and affection as much as dogs do and they enjoy their alone time. This attitude isn’t just shown towards humans and other pets, but at some point to their kittens too. So yes, it is normal for cat to attack their own kitten. View it from an aspect of instilling discipline.
Why does my cat attack her kittens?
Your cat might become forceful towards her cats on the off chance that she feels undermined herself. At the point when this happens she might leave them to save herself. Instances of this could be another creature or cat undermining it or an uproarious unexplainable sound that causes panic in her.
Clearly, there could be different reasons, yet this is an illustration of how this could occur. Thus, in the event that this occurs, you have a thought why this happened In the first place.
Another reason why your cat might be attacking her kittens is as a form implementing discipline and making sure her kittens grow up well enough in other to defend themselves should any need for it arises.
How to stop my cat from attacking and biting her kittens?
Although we’re told to believe that cats attacking their own kittens is a normal act, some owners are not really comfortable with this act especially when it becomes too much. So, if this is you, here are some ways you can stop your cat from biting and attacking her kittens.
Body language is key
Most people notice that their cats were biting and attacking their kittens because the reciprocated the actions to you. So, rather than just letting it slide and not doing anything about it, if your cat attacks and bites you, make use of body languages that show you do not like or encourage such acts and let them know. This might be an effective way to get you cat from attacking and biting its kittens. They now know that what they are doing is unacceptable to you and is thus not a good act.
Offer treats and praises
Unlike dogs, study shows that cats react to positive methods rather than negative methods, such as punishment.
So, for every time your cat retreats from attacking or biting its kittens, reward them with one of their favorite treats. You can also take them to their favorite spot in town. This is what we call “positive reinforcement” and it has proven to be very effective on cats.
Training and monitoring
If the behavior still persist after trying out the other options, you might want to consider training again. But this time concentrate on the area that gives you worry.
Watch and monitor it around its kittens. Anytime it tries to attack the kittens, remove it from the area and give it a ‘NO, don’t do that” signaling. Do this for a month and there should be noticeable changes.
However, if the behavior still pushes forward even after implementing all these actions, seeing a professional Vet will suffice. Book and appointment with the doctor and explain all the behaviors to you. Chances are that your cat might be experiencing some behavioral defects after all. The Vet will know what do if this is the case.
Final words
This is me hoping that I answered all you’re the possible questions you have about your cat biting and attacking its kittens.
PS; as much as this is considered to be a normal behavior in cats, it shouldn’t be left to go on for too long as it could cause major conflict among the kitten as well as other household pets you might have.
After researching on this topic, I’ve come to a conclusion that in the cartoon “Tom and Jerry” jerry was always trying to stir up conflict with tom and now we know why!