How does a kitten develop in the period from 4 to 8 months?
The period from 4 to 8 months in the life of a kitten is very bright and intense. A funny baby begins to turn into a stately adult cat, a wonderful representative of its kind. A responsible owner should be aware of the developmental milestones that the kitten will face in order to help him go through them smoothly. And they are very difficult during this period! Well, are you ready to accept and help? Then let’s go!
Only yesterday your kitten went crazy in your palms, and now he is almost an adult cat! Soon you will hardly recognize him, and this is not just a figure of speech. At 3-4 months, the kitten’s eye color changes and sets, at 3 months – the coat pattern, and at 5 months the color begins to change. It will continue to change and will not be established soon. Only by 7 months the felinologist will be able to tell what color your kitten will have in the future. There are many more surprises ahead of you!
- Up to three months, the kitten grew literally before our eyes. Now the period of rapid growth is over. By 6 months, the kitten reaches almost adult size, and growth slows down. But the muscles will continue to develop and grow stronger, the fat layer will also increase.
- By 4 months, the kitten overcomes the “immunological pit”. Thanks to vaccination, he develops his own immunity and is protected from most dangerous diseases.
- By 4 months, the kitten is already familiar with grooming. Your task is to extend this acquaintance. Do not forget about eye and ear care, nail clipping. After the first molt, you have to comb the baby regularly, and he should be ready for this.
- On average, at 4-5 months, a kitten’s milk teeth begin to be replaced by adult, permanent ones. Each kitten experiences this process differently. Some kids hardly notice it, while others experience it very violently: changing teeth brings discomfort and even pain. Dental toys, properly selected treats and food will help the cat survive this period. And your attention, of course.
- In the period of 5-8 months, the kitten will have the very first molt in her life. Review your baby’s diet and make sure it is balanced. In order for the adult coat to be beautiful and well-groomed, the baby must receive the optimal amount of vitamins and minerals. If the kitten is on a natural type of feeding, introduce vitamins into his diet, but first coordinate them with the veterinarian.
- From 5 months, kittens begin puberty. The first estrus in a cat can begin as early as 5 months, but usually occurs at 7-9 months, less often at 1 year. In cats, puberty also occurs at the same time. Be prepared that your pet’s behavior can change a lot. He can become restless, disobey, mark territory. Don’t worry, this is temporary and completely normal. Be sure to mark the time of the first estrus on the calendar and discuss with your veterinarian your next steps: spaying, castration, or other ways to control sexual activity.
The first heat does not mean that the cat is ready to become a mother. Her body continues to develop. Cats are considered adults after a year or more. If you are planning to breed, you should wait for several heats.
You should have grooming tools and cosmetics that suit your pet. Consult with a groomer. Which is best for your cat: comb, slicker or furminator? Choose a shampoo, conditioner and detangling spray.
Review your pet’s diet. Is your cat getting enough vitamins and minerals? Are you following the diet?
Discuss your pet’s puberty with your veterinarian. How will you regulate sexual activity? At what age is it better to spay or castrate? And if you are planning to breed, when should you schedule your first mating?
The telephone number of your veterinarian should always be at hand. You can hang it on the refrigerator door so you don’t get lost.
The period from 3 to 8 months is practically adolescence. Your kitten may give you surprises, sometimes not the most pleasant ones. But now you know how many changes fall to his lot, it is very difficult for him! Be patient and give your pet your strong shoulder – then you will overcome this milestone with your best friends. We guarantee!