The behavior of cats includes their way of acting and the habits they carry out on a daily basis, as well as the language they use to communicate, relate and interact with individuals and stimuli in their environment. Although we can come close to a logical definition of what feline behavior is, the truth is that we still have a lot to discover about the nature of cats and their forms of expression.
However, we do know that a cat's behavior is influenced not only by the characteristics inherent to its species, breed, genetics and the personality of each individual, but can also vary significantly according to the education, environment and care provided by each guardian.
In this article on our site, we will discuss in detail the behavior of kittens and adult cats, as well as the factors involved in the formation of the character of the feline. In this way you can improve communication and bonding with your cats, pillars for a positive coexistence.
How is the character of a cat formed?
The character and behavior of cats can vary greatly, as it depends on various factors. Next we will talk a little more about them:
- Genetics: The character of cats is closely related to their genetic heritage, up to 30%, which includes characteristic traits of race and parents. Thus, when felines have a skittish character, it is very likely that they pass it on to their children.
- Socialization: the socialization of kittens directly influences the character of their adult stage. This period, which includes from two weeks of life to seven, is considered a "sensitive stage", since it is where the recognition of "friendly species" occurs. Therefore, during the socialization of puppies we must ensure that they interact positively with all kinds of people, animals and environments, without causing stress in individuals.
- Learning: Education and the environment in which they have been raised provide felines with an experience that will have a direct impact on their behavior. Although genetics and socialization play a very important role, learning is key in cats, domestic animals with very high cognitive abilities.
Thus, each cat can show a unique character, even when we are talking about sibling individuals who have been raised together and have had similar experiences. Although some behaviors are typical of the species, the three factors that we have detailed above are the ones that will directly influence the character and behavior of cats. That is why the task of educating a cat from when it is small is so important.
The behavior of cats according to their age
The behavior of cats varies depending on the life stage they are in. Thus, we can see that kittens are much more playful and curious, while older cats tend to show a calmer behavior throughout the day.
Here's a little bit about what to expect about cat behavior at each stage:
Puppy Cat Behavior
Puppy cats are not born with a defined character, although, as we have mentioned, there are personality traits that will be associated with their behavior species-specific or genetic.
After birth, kittens are completely dependent on their mother until they are 9 to 15 days old, when they begin to gain mobilityAt the same time, the beginning of their socialization period occurs, therefore, at this stage it will be essential to socialize kittens in a positive way.
We will let them interact with people, animals and elements of the environment so that they can become familiar with them, thus avoiding the appearance of fears or other unwanted behaviors. All this will have repercussions on a balanced behavior in his adult stage.
From 4 or 5 weeks the socialization period begins to end, at the same time as progressive weaning, and we will begin to observe new behaviors in the kittens. Living together with their mother and siblings will allow them to learn the language and communication of cats, the basis of their social behavior.
We will observe that they begin to eat by themselves small amounts of food, to use the litter box and bury their feces, the appearance of grooming (grooming) toward themselves and other individuals, social play with peers, predatory behavior, and increased social behavior in general.
At this time it is essential to use positive reinforcement (treats, kind words or caresses) to encourage cats to show the behaviors that we consider positive, such as using the scratching post, being manipulated or sleeping in their bed. It is important that we set with all the members of the household the behaviors to be reinforced, in this way we will achieve better results.
Later on, from 7 weeks of age and until puberty, felines begin the juvenile period, which is characterized by the appearance of sexual behaviorsAt this time it will be essential to go to our veterinarian to inform us about the he alth benefits of neutering cats, such as the prevention of certain types of cancer or urine marking inside of home.
Adult Cat Behavior
The behavior of adult cats will be greatly influenced by the stages of transition, socialization and youth, even so, they will continue to learn throughout their lives from all those experiences that are presented to them.
If we have guaranteed them positive experiences, we will most likely see balanced behavior in our cats, although this may be slightly influenced by race or genetics. However, there is no predictable behavior in adult cats, on the contrary, each feline can develop its own character and temperament
Even so, in general, we can observe that adult cats are territorial animals, which stick firmly to their routine like a way to preserve your well-being. Sudden changes often lead to stress in cats, which affects not only their behavior, but also their he alth.
At this stage it will be essential to continue to stimulate play and the cats' social behavior through daily activities and affection. We will avoid boredom and sedentary routines, betting on environmental enrichment, essential for managing stable behavior and a he althy weight in felines.
If we observe changes in the behavior of cats, we should go to a veterinarian with relative urgency, since we must know that these animals usually hide pain very well, anxiety and other problems that they may suffer until they are already in an advanced state. The regular veterinary visits , every six or twelve months, will be essential to guarantee their good physical and mental he alth, as well as to detect any anomaly promptly, before it gets worse.
From 10 to 12 years of age we will observe the appearance of the first symptoms of old age in cats, both physical and behavioralAt this stage, cats spend more time resting, require more care and affection, are not as active and may begin to develop he alth problems It will be essential to continue encouraging play and daily habits, even for a shorter period of time.
Behavior of cats with humans
Last (but not least), let's talk a little about the behavior of cats with humans, specifically about the relationship they have with their guardians.
The survival instinct of cats pushes them to stick to a routine and defend their territory, but it also greatly influences their time to interact with people. In general, it is completely normal for cats not to immediately approach an unknown person, although of course there are very sociable individuals who enjoy contact with people. people.
Cats tend to avoid and shy away from people they don't know, those who are especially noisy or those who want to catch them. In case of not being able to flee and feeling cornered, cats may show certain warnings, such as snorts and growls. If ignored, they can even attack.
Therefore, when trying to rescue or help abandoned cats it will be important to be very patient and try to gain the trust of the felines so that they themselves approach. Also discover on our site some tips for safely approaching a fearful or frightened cat.
But if we talk about the relationship between the felines and their guardian, we already assume that it is a bond based on affection and trustOf course, we cannot expect cats to act in the same way as a dog or a guinea pig, since they are different species.
In turn, felines tend to be more independent animals that often opt for a more solitary lifestyle in their natural state, although cats can form colonies of cats where each individual preserves its autonomy, but collaborates with the survival of its group.
Therefore, although cats understand that we provide them with optimal conditions for their development and we give them affection, cats do not see us as a reference, just as dogs do, but as members of their community (or family, to put it in more "human" terms).
Behavior of cats in heat
To finish, we must make a special mention of the behavior of cats in heat. We must know that sexual behaviors are totally instinctive and that they cause changes in their body and behavior. Influenced by daylight hours, weather, and other individuals, heat in cats causes certain behaviors, such as:
- Meows
- Nervousness
- Marking
- Aggressiveness
- Tremors
- Rubbing
- Etc.
Although there are some contraceptive methods for cats that prevent the appearance of these symptoms, such as the oestrus injection, we must know that they also have serious he alth side effects. The only effective way to prevent them completely is castration. Check with your veterinary to find out more.
