FM1 Pt1-5 From Birth to Social Maturity Flashcards
What distinguishes the development of a kitten from that of a dog in terms of domestication?
Unlike dogs, cats are not truly domesticated; selective breeding has little impact on their behavior, making them more connected to their wild ancestors.
How do genetic and environmental influences affect a cat’s behavior?
Genes program a cat’s potential behavior, while life experiences determine if and how that behavior is expressed.
What role does the breeder play in a kitten’s personality development?
The breeder influences personality by selecting for positive traits (e.g., friendly, bold) and ensuring appropriate early socialization.
What is the sensitive period for socialization in kittens?
The sensitive period for socialization in kittens is between 2 and 7 weeks of age, where they form positive associations with other species, including humans.
What are the recommended best practices for handling kittens during their sensitive period?
Best practices include handling kittens for 30-60 minutes daily, with a variety of 4+ handlers, involving touching all parts of the body and engaging in play.
What is ‘social referencing’ in kittens?
Social referencing is the habituation to domestic life, including exposure to various household stimuli like sounds, textures, and smells.
How do kittens learn essential survival skills?
Kittens learn survival skills by imitating their mother, practicing hunting behaviors through play, and learning to climb, balance, and jump.
What is the significance of kneading behavior in kittens?
Kneading is a maternally directed behavior that kittens perform to stimulate milk release from their mother, which is often encouraged by owners.
How does puberty and social maturity affect a cat’s personality?
Puberty starts around 9 months, and by social maturity (2-4 years), cats may become more solitary, self-reliant, and cautious, influenced by their genetics and early experiences.
Why do unneutered male cats tend to roam more than neutered males?
Unneutered males roam to seek breeding opportunities, while neutered males are content with a smaller territory and less need to roam.
What challenges do pet cats face in terms of hunting skills and survival?
Pet cats often lack full hunting skills and adequate territory to survive independently, relying on humans for food and comfort.
How do humans compensate for the limited hunting opportunities of pet cats?
Humans provide food, play, and comfort, fulfilling the needs that would otherwise be met through hunting and territorial behavior.
