How does early kittenhood affect a cat's aggressive behavior?

Question

I have had my cat licorice for about 10 years since My mom found her dumped in our big outside trash can with two other kittens. We keep licorice and Gabe the other two to the vet. Licorice is a pretty good cat, she's a bit aggressive but will play and cuddle occasionally. I was wondering if her kitten hood affects her aggressivness or behavior.

Sara Farmer, DVM · Accepted Answer

Kittens are socialized through interaction with the mother cat and their littermates, and kittens who are separated from mom at a young age tend to miss out on this socialization. One explanation for why they may seem more aggressive is that they are treating people like other cats, and being more aggressive with them. I will also say that it is pretty common for cats to be fearful and therefore aggressive at the veterinary clinic - and who could blame them? Unpleasant things they don't understand tend to happen there. If she seems anxious and fearful at the vet you could ask about things to try to reduce her stress level like pheromones or a sedative.

How does early kittenhood affect a cat's aggressive behavior?

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