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My mother cat doesn't recognize her returned kitten. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 2 months old | 4.5 lbs

Teagra had 4 kittens 8 weeks and 6 days ago, 3 went to there new homes a week today, I have had to take one of the kittens back today, the brother has welcomed her back but I'm worried about teagra as she is being funny with me she won't let me near her and she's smelt the kittens who's come back but that's it, is this normal behaviour for a cat, and does teagra know it's her baby that's come back?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on November 12th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using PetCoach! Teagra likely visually doesn't remember the kitten sadly. She goes by smell with recognition. The kitten, since it was in a different home, smells different to her. It just may take time for her to accept it as a new house mate. You can rub the kitten down in her bedding or the other remaining kittens bedding. Also using feliway diffusers or spray to help calm her may help. But I think what Teagra is doing is relatively normal for a cat. http://pet-supplies.drsfostersmith.com/search?af=type%3Aproduct&view=grid&w=feliway&visitorID=&cartcount=0&wishcount=0&division=cats

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