Why doesn't a cat approach her kittens after giving birth? - briefly
After giving birth, a cat may not immediately approach her kittens due to the presence of the placenta and umbilical cords, which she instinctively cleans up first to ensure the safety and cleanliness of her newborns. Additionally, the mother cat may need some time to recover from the birthing process before fully engaging with her offspring.
Why doesn't a cat approach her kittens after giving birth? - in detail
After giving birth, cats often exhibit a behavior known as "queening." During this period, the mother cat may appear distant or even aggressive towards her newborn kittens. This behavior is not indicative of a lack of maternal instincts but rather serves several vital purposes in feline biology and behavior.
Firstly, queening allows the mother cat to establish her territory and assert dominance over her kittens. By maintaining some distance initially, she ensures that her offspring understand who is in charge. This dynamic helps in the long-term socialization of the kittens, teaching them essential feline hierarchical behaviors.
Secondly, this behavior is crucial for the survival and well-being of both the mother and her kittens. Immediately after birth, the mother cat's body goes through significant hormonal changes. Oxytocin, a hormone that plays a key role in labor and milk production, also contributes to the mother's emotional state. Initially, high levels of oxytocin may make the mother cat feel overwhelmed or anxious, leading her to keep some distance from her kittens until she feels more calm and in control.
Moreover, queening allows the mother cat to focus on crucial tasks such as cleaning her kittens and stimulating their breathing and circulation. This is particularly important for newborns who are not yet capable of regulating their own body temperature or movements. By licking and grooming them, the mother ensures that her kittens remain warm, clean, and stimulated to breathe properly.
Additionally, maintaining some distance initially helps in protecting the kittens from potential predators or threats. By not immediately bonding with her offspring, the mother cat can be more vigilant and prepared to defend them if necessary. This behavior is a natural defense mechanism that has evolved over time to enhance the survival chances of both the mother and her kittens in the wild.
In summary, while it may seem counterintuitive, a cat's initial distance from her newborn kittens serves multiple biological and behavioral purposes. This behavior ensures the well-being and survival of both the mother and her offspring, setting the stage for a strong bond to develop over time as the kittens grow and become more independent.