Understanding your kitten
It's worth trying to understand the way your kitten is thinking, and why she behaves how she does. That way, you'll be able to build an even closer bond with her. Plus, it will help you to train her out of destructive behaviour, so she'll become a cat you love to share your home with.
How your kitten becomes a clever cat
Kittens learn by experience; if it's a happy experience, your kitten will want to repeat it. If it's an unpleasant experience, she'll try to avoid it. When it comes to training your kitten, the most important thing to remember is that rewards work. Shouting most certainly does not; all that will do is frighten her.
To discourage your kitten from doing something you don't want her to do, create a positive environment around something she is allowed to do. For example, to stop her clawing your furniture, encourage her to use her scratching post instead. Try making it an exciting activity centre; put her toys and some catnip around it, and praise her when she uses it.
If the relationship with your kitten is fun and playful, and you spend time with her, as well as providing plenty of stimulating toys to occupy her, she won't even think about behaving badly. More often than not, naughty behavior is simply the result of boredom.
Why on earth is she doing that?
So much for normal behavior. But sometimes you'll spot your kitten doing things that seem a bit bizarre. Here are some explanations.
Tasty Tips
Why does my kitten suck on things?
Sometimes you might spot your kitten sucking on a blanket, or a toy; some people have even woken up to find their kitten sucking their ears! There is no clear explanation for this, but it's possible that kittens who have been weaned earlier are more likely to suck on things as a comfort. Or maybe out of boredom; try rotating your kitten's toys to keep her interested.
When cats eat non-food items it is called Pica. Pica can be dangerous if cats are eating things that could block digestion like fabric or string. Also, some houseplants can be toxic to cats. It's normal for cats to eat grass, so don't worry about that. In rare cases Pica can be associated with certain diseases, so if you're concerned don't hesitate to contact your vet.
Why is my kitten sleeping so much?
Most cats sleep between 13 to 18 hours a day, though it depends on their personality and their age. Your kitten is probably sleeping even longer. In fact, when they're first born, kittens sleep most of the time. This keeps them close to their mother and ensures they don't wander off and put themselves in danger.
Cats are nocturnal creatures, so they're likely to sleep during the day and be more active at night. This can be tricky, especially if you have young children who want to play with your kitten in the daytime, or if your kitten is prone to the 'night crazies'. If you play with your kitten during the day, and especially before bedtime, you have more chance of keeping her asleep at night.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Ocean Fish Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender ocean fish smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Hairball Control cat food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Seared Tuna & Carrot Medley Cat Food
Delicious seared tuna paired with tender carrots in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Recipe cat food
20% lower calories vs. Hill's Science Diet Adult
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Tender Chicken Dinner
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Salmon & Yellow Peas Recipe cat food
Grain free, easy-to-digest food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Salmon, Brown Rice, and Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Chicken Dinner cat food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Salmon & Vegetable Canned Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Cat Food
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe Cat Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful fur for adult cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Light Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Liver & Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Turkey Entrée Cat Food
Delicious taste of gourmet minced turkey in precisely balanced nutrition. Provide a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity level.
Related articles
Food Allergies, Intolerance & Your Cat's Sensitive Stomach
Learn about how food allergies might be responsible for your cat's sensitive stomach & vomiting, and how trying a hypoallergenic cat food can help.
Cat Bullying: What It Is & How to Stop It
Learn what a bully cat is, why cats demonstrate bullying behavior, and how to stop one cat from constantly bullying others.
All About Your Cat's Sleeping Habits
Learn all about your cat's sleep schedule, why she seems to be most active during twilight hours and what it means to be a crepuscular kitty.
Cat Seizures: Causes, Symptoms & What You Should Do
Learn how to spot the signs of a cat seizure, what you should do if your cat is having a seizure, and what the common causes of seizures are.
How to Help Your Cat's Behavioral Problems
Learn why cats exhibit behavior problems, such as scratching and spraying, and training steps you can take to help correct her bad habits.
Choosing a Vet for Your Cat? Consider These Factors
Choosing the right veterinary for your cat is very important to its health. Read through our list of things to consider when looking for a new vet.
Finding Your New Kitten: Where to Look
If you're interested in getting a kitten, read this article to find out about the different places you can get one from adoption to pedigree breeders.
Do's and Don'ts for Disciplining a Cat
Having trouble with your cat's bad behavior? Learn how to effectively discipline your cat with this helpful list of do's and don'ts.
Feeding Fish to Your Cat: A Healthy Option
Discover whether or not feeding fish to your cat has any real benefits. Learn how fish can be properly included into your cat's diet.
What's a Normal Cat Temperature? Tips for Checking Your Cat's Vitals
Learn tips for checking your cat's vital signs, including things like proper body temperature, and why it's a good way to monitor their health.
Kitten Psychology: Understanding What Your Cat is Thinking
To provide your kitten with the best possible care, it is important to understand her. Learn more about what your kitten thinks and does.
7 Tips for Newborn Kitten Care
Learn helpful care tips for your kitten in their first four months, including essential topics like bedding, food, using the litter box, grooming & more.
Using Positive Reinforcement when Training Your Kitten
Learn how positive reinforcements can reward your kitten for good behavior while their still young to set them up for success when they get older.
5 Tips to Help Your Cat Exercise in Winter
Discover fun and creative cat exercise ideas to help your kitty stay fit and active through the winter months.
Can Cats Eat Eggs?
Discover whether or not your cat can eat eggs and what the benefits or potential hazards are if she does.
Ear Mites in Cats & Kittens: Signs, Symptoms & Treatments
Know the warning signs that your cat might have ear mites, so you can take the proper steps to treat the infectious parasite.
Choosing the Right Food for Your Senior Cat
Senior cats over age 7 have different nutritional needs than younger cats. Learn what to look for when choosing a food for older and aging felines.
4 Ways to Help Your Cat Maintain an Ideal Weight
Follow these 4 easy steps to help your cat attain its ideal weight and maintain a healthy weight for life.
Your Cat in Heat: What You Need to Know
Puppy, kitten and pet dieting, cat nutrition and dog nutrition information from Hill's Pet
Choosing A Healthy Cat Food: Things You Need to Know
Find out the essential ingredients in a healthy cat food, how to interpret a food label, and the importance of your cat's age when choosing a food.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.