At our cattery, we take special care to ensure the well-being and social development of our kittens from birth to the time they join their new families. Here's an overview of the process:
Preparation for Birth
A few days before giving birth, the expectant mother cat is moved to a private, quiet room under our constant supervision. Cats typically begin labor in the evening, with the first kitten arriving closer to dawn. The entire birthing process can take up to two days, but the active phase usually lasts 4–5 hours. During this time, we stay by her side, providing comfort and assistance, if necessary, especially for first-time mothers.
Early Weeks: Building Immunity
From birth, the mother cat is the sole caregiver for her kittens. For the first six weeks, she and her litter remain isolated from other cats to protect the kittens from potential viruses and other health risks. At this stage, kittens receive immunity through their mother’s milk, as their own immune systems are not yet developed. During this period, we minimize human interaction (about 1–2 hours per day) since social skills and preferences haven’t begun to form yet. The mother cat is naturally protective of her litter and prefers minimal disturbances.
Socialization with Humans (6–10 Weeks)
At 1.5 months old, the mother cat and her kittens are moved into a bedroom where they are surrounded by people 24/7. This is the critical period when kittens start developing their social skills. They become curious, playful, and eager to interact with humans. We devote significant time to engaging with the kittens, helping them build trust and confidence in human companionship.
Integration with Other Cats (10–12 Weeks)
By 2.5 months, the mother cat begins to wean her kittens, showing subtle signs of independence by reducing nursing and encouraging them to explore on their own. At this stage, we open the doors of the bedroom, allowing the kittens to venture into shared spaces. Here, they are introduced to the adult cats in our cattery, completing the final phase of their socialization.
This transition helps the kittens learn important behaviors through interaction with older cats, preparing them for the responsibilities of adulthood. While the kittens continue to play and bond with their siblings, they also begin to explore and adapt to life as independent young cats.
Ready for Their Forever Homes
By 3 months, our kittens are ready to join their new families. If transportation by air cargo is required, we recommend waiting until the kittens are at least 3.5–4 months old to minimize stress, as travel can be a challenging experience for younger kittens.
Through this carefully managed process, we ensure our kittens are healthy, well-socialized, and fully prepared for life with their new owners.
Comentarios