Photo by SimoneVomFeld on Pixabay
As a cat owner, it can be both exciting and confusing when your cat gives birth to a litter of kittens. You may have set up a cozy bed for them, only to find that your cat refuses to use it. In fact, you may notice that she is moving her kittens away from everyone in the house. But why is she doing that?
New cat mothers can be quite fussy about where they keep their newborn babies and may move them for their safety. While this behavior is often attributed to their instincts, there are other reasons behind it as well. In this article, we will delve into why cats hide their kittens and provide tips on how to handle the situation.
Reasons Why Cats Hide Their Kittens
1. Newborn Kittens’ Limited Senses
When kittens are born, their eyes and ears are still closed. It takes about two weeks for their eyes to open and their senses to fully develop. During this time, they rely on their mother to act as their eyes and ears. The mother cat understands this and tries to provide a safe and sheltered environment for her kittens. If she perceives the nesting area to be too noisy or overwhelming, she will instinctively move them to a quieter and more secluded spot, such as under a bed or bush outside.
2. Mother’s Instincts
Cats are known for their independence, and this trait extends to their mothering instincts as well. If your family cat seems hesitant to keep her kittens around you or other family members, there is usually no need to worry. Cats are self-reliant and prefer to handle things on their own, without interference. In the case of feral cats, it is best to leave them and their babies alone, unless they are in immediate danger. Attempting to move them may upset or frighten the mother.
Typically, a cat will hide her nest until the kittens are older and more independent. Once they reach a certain age, she may gradually introduce them to open spaces outside the nest.
3. Protection from Predators
Mothers of all species are naturally protective of their young, and cats are no exception. Feral cats hide their kittens to keep them safe from potential predators such as birds, dogs, rodents, or even other cats. Domesticated cats also hide their kittens from perceived dangers within the house, such as high-traffic areas, loud noises, other pets, or small children. Your cat may perceive something as a threat even if you don’t notice it. For example, if someone walks around the house with heavy footsteps, the cat may view it as a potential danger to her babies and keep them away. She will also avoid loud noises or anything else that may cause fear or stress to her kittens.
4. Need for Privacy
After giving birth, mother cats need time to nurse and clean their kittens. This is an intimate and private experience for them. They prefer to be alone with their babies during this time. You may notice that your cat becomes shyer and less inclined to leave the nest. She may eat less or only venture out when there are no people around. It is important to give her space during this period to minimize her anxiety.
What to Do if Your Cat is Hiding Her Kittens
Before becoming a mother, a cat will instinctively prepare safe spaces for her litter by nesting. Nesting refers to the act of the mother cat creating a secure area for her kittens. Similar to a bird’s nest, a cat’s nest may be tucked away, hidden, or covered to protect the kittens from other animals or people. The best approach is to leave the mother and her kittens alone unless there is a significant danger or threat to their safety. Ensure that she has access to food and water nearby.
Characteristics of a Nesting Cat
A nesting cat may exhibit signs of agitation, anxiety, or fussiness as she prepares her nests. She may also become more distant in anticipation of the arrival of her babies. It is common for a cat to set up multiple nesting spots for her newborns. This allows her to quickly move them to a different location if there are any perceived dangers in one spot. However, cats usually prefer to stay in one spot once they have chosen it.
Common Nesting Spots
You may notice similarities in the spaces your cat chooses for her kittens. Typically, these spaces are confined, well-hidden, and often dark. Some common places for a domestic cat to nest include:
-
Under the bed
-
Under the couch
-
Inside the closet
-
In the basement or attic (if accessible)
Feral cats, on the other hand, may choose spaces in your yard or garage. Common areas for a feral cat to nest include:
-
Under a car
-
Inside a shed
-
Under a raised structure (such as a gazebo or deck)
-
Close to a heat source (such as a machine)
What if She Moves Them to an Undesirable Location?
In some cases, your cat may move her kittens to a hidden place that you don’t approve of, such as under the bed or couch. This can make it difficult to check on the kittens or, in worse cases, make it dangerous to drive your car. If you need to move the nest, proceed with caution.
Gently Move the Nest
You can try moving the cat nest on your own, but be aware of a few things. First, your cat may become defensive or territorial if she feels her babies are being threatened. She may hiss or even attack. Second, the nest has a distinct smell that the kittens use to identify their mother. If you move the nest, wear gloves to avoid contaminating the smell. However, it is not recommended to handle a feral cat and her litter. In such cases, it is best to call a professional if there is an issue with the nest.
Lure the Mother Cat Out with Treats or Food
Offering treats or food to the mother cat may incentivize her to move the nest on her own. Leave out a can of her favorite food or a plate of treats. If she comes out to eat, she may either look for other places to nest or allow you to gently move the nest with gloves. Watch for other signs, such as the mother cat venturing out more often or allowing her kittens to explore further from the nest. These signs may indicate that she is ready to move on from the current nest.
Call for Professional Help
While this may not be necessary for a domestic cat in your house, it is recommended to consider professional help for feral cats. The unfamiliarity between you and the cat can make handling the situation challenging. The mother cat may not trust you with her babies, and you may not know how she will react to your presence. If the cat displays aggressive behavior, it is best not to handle her. Scratches or bites from a cat can carry diseases or cause infections. Contacting your local shelter will ensure that the cat and her kittens are safely removed and provided with appropriate care and housing.
Conclusion
New cat mothers exhibit specific behaviors because they are cautious and protective of their newborns. Newborn kittens are highly sensitive and dependent on their mothers, which is why the mother seeks a quiet and private place for them. As the kittens grow older and more self-sufficient, the mother will become less fussy about their living arrangement and may no longer require the nest. In the meantime, it is best to allow your cat to do what she thinks is best and give her the time and space she needs to care for her kittens effectively.
Remember to provide food, water, and a safe environment for the mother cat during this time. Respect her instincts and allow her to prioritize the well-being of her kittens. By understanding and accommodating her behavior, you can help ensure a healthy and secure environment for the entire feline family.