Why is a female cat called a cat and not a kitten? - briefly
The term "cat" is used to refer to adult females of the species Felis catus. Unlike humans, who have distinct terms for male and female adults, the English language uses "cat" for both genders once they reach maturity, distinguishing them from young felines called "kittens."
Why is a female cat called a cat and not a kitten? - in detail
The terminology used to describe female cats can often be a source of confusion, particularly when considering the terms "cat" and "kitten." The term "cat" is used to refer to an adult female, while "kitten" specifically denotes a young, immature feline. This distinction is rooted in biological and linguistic conventions that have evolved over time.
Biologically, cats reach sexual maturity and are considered adults at around nine to twelve months of age. Before this point, they are referred to as kittens. The term "kitten" is reserved for juvenile cats, regardless of gender, because it emphasizes their youth and developmental stage. Once a female cat reaches adulthood, she is simply referred to as a cat. This differentiation is crucial for understanding the life stages of felines and is consistent with how other animals are classified.
Linguistically, the English language has specific terms for different life stages and genders of animals. For example, a young dog is called a puppy, and an adult female dog is called a bitch. Similarly, a young horse is a foal, and an adult female horse is a mare. The term "cat" for an adult female follows this pattern, providing a clear and unambiguous way to describe the animal's age and gender. This convention helps in communication, ensuring that everyone understands whether they are discussing a young or adult animal.
Moreover, the term "cat" is gender-neutral when referring to adults. While "tom" is used to specify an adult male cat, "cat" can refer to either gender, making it a convenient and widely understood term. This gender-neutral usage simplifies communication, especially in situations where the gender of the cat is not immediately apparent or is not the primary focus of the discussion.
In summary, the term "cat" is used for adult females because it aligns with biological and linguistic conventions. These conventions help in clearly distinguishing between different life stages and genders, ensuring effective communication and understanding. The use of "kitten" for young cats, regardless of gender, further emphasizes the importance of age in feline terminology. This system provides a straightforward and efficient way to describe cats at various stages of their lives.