Do cat dads stick around and take care of their kittens? Find out more about feline fathers
For some species of animal, parenting requires teamwork. Penguins, flamingos, lions and gorillas all typically share the workload when their babies arrive. But cats usually take a more solo approach.
It’s not common or instinctual for male cats to stick around after they’ve got a female cat pregnant. In the wild especially, male cats don’t typically take care of their kittens. Often, we don’t know who a kitten’s father is, because they’re nowhere to be found once the kitten arrives. They’re too busy looking for other mates and patrolling their territory.
In fact, kittens in a single litter can have completely different fathers if the mother has mated with more than one male. There could even be as many fathers as there are kittens! The ability to produce a litter of kittens fathered by more than one male cat is called superfecundation.
Female cats are perfectly capable of raising their kittens on their own. They don’t usually need any help while pregnant, giving birth or nursing their offspring. Having a father around is not necessary for the successful growth or development of the kittens.
But in certain circumstances, it is possible for domestic male cats to help raise their kittens. If they have a close bond with the mother cat, they can develop a bond with the kittens too. They may show this by helping to groom, protect and play with their kittens.
Do cat dads and kittens recognise each other?
Cats recognise each other using scent and sight. If dads and kittens have spent enough time together, they may learn what each other looks and smells like. This will help them to recognise each other in future. But if they haven’t met or spent much time together, they won’t know they are from the same family.
Can cat dads be around their kittens?
It is usually safe for cat dads to be around their kittens. But they should be monitored closely to see how they interact. If the dad or kittens are stressed or showing aggressive behaviour, they should be separated straight away. Cat dads won’t eat their kittens. But they could hurt them if they are feeling aggressive or stressed and can’t escape from the situation.
When can a cat dad meet their kittens?
If you want kittens to meet their dad, it’s best to wait until the kittens are at least four to six weeks old. This is when they are more mobile and less vulnerable. Make the introduction gradually and supervise the kittens at all times. This allows time for the father to get used to them. It also reduces the risk of the father becoming aggressive towards them or feeling stressed. Find out how to introduce cats to other cats.
Do male cats get jealous of kittens?
When a male cat is around their kittens, they may show behaviours such as hissing, growling or swatting. But this isn’t a sign of jealousy. It is more likely to be a sign of stress or a reaction related to their territorial instinct. They may feel their territory is being invaded by the kittens or their resources such as food and attention are under threat. Changes in routine may also cause stress. Try to minimise any stress for the dad by keeping routines consistent. Give the dad plenty of attention and introduce him to his kittens gradually.
