Are adult cats the same breed as kittens? - briefly
Adult cats and kittens are of the same breed, as breed is determined by genetics and remains consistent throughout their life.
Are adult cats the same breed as kittens? - in detail
Adult cats and kittens are indeed the same breed, as the concept of breed is determined by genetic lineage and specific traits passed down through generations, not by age. A kitten is simply the juvenile stage of a cat’s life, and as it matures, it develops into an adult cat while retaining its breed characteristics. Breeds are defined by distinct physical and behavioral traits, such as coat pattern, body shape, and temperament, which are inherited from their parents. For example, a Siamese kitten will grow into a Siamese adult, maintaining the breed’s signature pointed coloration, slender body, and vocal personality. The transition from kittenhood to adulthood involves physical growth, such as increased size and muscle development, but the genetic blueprint that defines the breed remains unchanged. Breed identity is established at birth and persists throughout the cat’s life, regardless of age. Therefore, an adult cat is not a different breed from its younger self; it is the same breed, having matured into its full physical and behavioral potential.