A litter of kittens usually consists of three to six kittens.
Born after approximately 63 days of gestation, kittens
emerge in an amnion which is bitten off and eaten by the
mother cat. Their eyes remain closed for their first week
to 10 days of life. For the first several weeks, kittens
are unable to urinate or defecate without being stimulated
by their mother. Between 2 and 7 weeks kittens develop
very quickly. Their coordination and strength improve
and they spar with their litter-mates and begin to explore
the world outside the nest. They learn to wash themselves
and others and play hunting and stalking games. If they
are outdoor cats their mother or other adult cats may
demonstrate hunting techniques for them to emulate.
|
