7/16/25

How Long Does a Mother Cat Remember Her Kittens?

Typically, a mother cat will forget her kittens after about a month, although some may take longer. If kittens are separated from their mother at a very young age, particularly before weaning, the mother cat may remember them for a somewhat extended period. However, if the separation occurs when the kittens have reached a certain stage of development and are no longer dependent on her, the mother cat will usually forget them relatively quickly.

Once kittens reach an age where they can hunt and eat on their own, the mother cat will often begin to drive them away, which is a natural behavior. Therefore, if kittens have been with their mother for a long time and are weaned, being sent to a new home at this point means the mother cat will likely forget them quite soon. Moreover, upon meeting again, they would not recognize each other as kin. Another scenario involves kittens being separated from their mother at a younger age. Initially, the mother cat will search for them for a few days, but after this period, she usually accepts the situation and begins to forget, giving up the search. Cats possess both short-term and long-term memory. Typically, with their offspring, they mostly rely on short-term memory, which lasts for just a few months. Consequently, if separated from their kittens for more than three days, or definitely after a month, they will likely forget them.

Signs of a Mother Cat Missing Her Kittens

After kittens are given away, mother cats may exhibit short-term anxiety. This can be manifested through increased searching behavior, reduced food intake, and restlessness. During this period, it is crucial to focus on supporting the mother cat's nutrition. Also, keep an eye on her breasts for swelling and check her temperature for any signs of fever. If these symptoms occur, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.Learn more:Pet Grooming

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