Kitten vs. Cat: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 23, 2024
A kitten is a young domesticated cat, typically under six months old, playful and growing, while a cat refers to a fully grown feline, more independent and mature.
Key Differences
Kittens are young cats, generally defined as being under six months of age, characterized by their small size, playful nature, and rapid growth. Adult cats are fully grown felines, usually over a year old, known for their independence and settled behavior compared to the playful and curious nature of kittens.
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Jan 23, 2024
In terms of physical development, kittens undergo significant changes in the first few months, including teething and learning to walk, run, and climb. Adult cats have completed these developmental stages and exhibit stronger, more coordinated movements and a full set of adult teeth.
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Jan 23, 2024
Nutritionally, kittens require a diet rich in proteins and fats to support their rapid growth and high energy levels. In contrast, adult cats need a balanced diet that maintains their health and energy but does not promote excessive weight gain.
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Jan 23, 2024
Socially, kittens are in the process of learning vital behaviors like hunting, grooming, and interacting with humans and other animals. Adult cats, having learned these behaviors, are more adept at communication, grooming themselves efficiently, and often exhibit specific preferences and behaviors.
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Jan 23, 2024
In terms of health care, kittens typically require a series of vaccinations and check-ups to ensure proper development, while adult cats need regular veterinary care focused on maintaining long-term health, including dental care, weight management, and preventive screenings.
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Jan 23, 2024
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Comparison Chart
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Kitten and Cat Definitions
Kitten
Undergoes rapid growth and development.
The kitten grew noticeably in just a few weeks.
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Jan 07, 2024
Cat
Displays established behavioral patterns.
The cat preferred napping in the sunny spot of the room.
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Kitten
Learning basic feline behaviors.
The kitten was learning to groom itself.
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Jan 07, 2024
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Cat
A small domesticated carnivorous mammal (Felis catus), kept as a pet and as catcher of vermin, and existing in a variety of breeds.
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Jan 06, 2024
Kitten
Requires specific nutrition for growth.
The kitten was fed a special diet to support its development.
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Jan 07, 2024
Cat
Any of various other carnivorous mammals of the family Felidae, including the lion, tiger, leopard, and lynx.
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Jan 06, 2024
Kitten
One of the young of various other small felines and of certain other mammals, such as beavers.
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Kitten
A young cat, especially before sexual maturity (reached at about seven months).
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Cat
To look for sexual partners; have an affair or affairs
"catting around with every lady in sight" (Gore Vidal).
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Jan 06, 2024
Kitten
Noted for its playful and curious nature.
The kitten explored every corner of the house.
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Jan 07, 2024
Cat
A domesticated species (Felis catus) of feline animal, commonly kept as a house pet.
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
Any similar animal of the family Felidae, which includes lions, tigers, bobcats, leopards, cougars, cheetahs, caracals, lynxes, and other such non-domesticated species.
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
(nautical) A strong tackle used to hoist an anchor to the cathead of a ship.
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Cat
(archaic) The pointed piece of wood that is struck in the game of tipcat.
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
A double tripod (for holding a plate, etc.) with six feet, of which three rest on the ground, in whatever position it is placed.
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Cat
(historical) A wheeled shelter, used in the Middle Ages as a siege weapon to allow assailants to approach enemy defences.
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
(computing) A program and command in Unix that reads one or more files and directs their content to the standard output.
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
(slang) Any of a variety of earth-moving machines. (from their manufacturer Caterpillar Inc.)
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Cat
A ground vehicle which uses caterpillar tracks, especially tractors, trucks, minibuses, and snow groomers.
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Cat
Abbreviation of computed axial tomographyOften used attributively, as in “CAT scan” or “CT scan”.
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Cat
To dump large amounts of data on (an unprepared target), usually with no intention of browsing it carefully.
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Cat
Catastrophic; terrible, disastrous.
The weather was cat, so they returned home early.
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
Any animal belonging to the natural family Felidae, and in particular to the various species of the genera Felis, Panthera, and Lynx. The domestic cat is Felis domestica. The European wild cat (Felis catus) is much larger than the domestic cat. In the United States the name wild cat is commonly applied to the bay lynx (Lynx rufus). The larger felines, such as the lion, tiger, leopard, and cougar, are often referred to as cats, and sometimes as big cats. See Wild cat, and Tiger cat.
Laying aside their often rancorous debate over how best to preserve the Florida panther, state and federal wildlife officials, environmentalists, and independent scientists endorsed the proposal, and in 1995 the eight cats [female Texas cougars] were brought from Texas and released. . . . Uprooted from the arid hills of West Texas, three of the imports have died, but the remaining five adapted to swamp life and have each given birth to at least one litter of kittens.
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
A strong vessel with a narrow stern, projecting quarters, and deep waist. It is employed in the coal and timber trade.
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Cat
A double tripod (for holding a plate, etc.), having six feet, of which three rest on the ground, in whatever position it is placed.
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
Feline mammal usually having thick soft fur and being unable to roar; domestic cats; wildcats
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
An informal term for a youth or man;
A nice guy
The guy's only doing it for some doll
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
The leaves of the shrub Catha edulis which are chewed like tobacco or used to make tea; has the effect of a euphoric stimulant;
In Yemen kat is used daily by 85% of adults
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
A large vehicle that is driven by caterpillar tracks; frequently used for moving earth in construction and farm work
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Cat
Any of several large cats typically able to roar and living in the wild
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Cat
A method of examining body organs by scanning them with X rays and using a computer to construct a series of cross-sectional scans along a single axis
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Cat
Eject the contents of the stomach through the mouth;
After drinking too much, the students vomited
He purged continuously
The patient regurgitated the food we gave him last night
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Jan 06, 2024
Cat
Exhibits independence and maturity.
The cat had a routine of feeding and grooming itself.
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Jan 07, 2024
Cat
Maintains a balanced diet for health.
The cat was fed twice a day with measured portions.
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Cat
Requires regular health check-ups.
The cat visited the vet annually for a health check.
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Jan 07, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
At what age does a kitten become a cat?
A kitten typically becomes an adult cat at about one year of age.
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Jan 23, 2024
Do adult cats need as much attention as kittens?
Adult cats are more independent but still benefit from regular interaction and affection.
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Jan 23, 2024
How often should a kitten be fed?
Kittens need to be fed multiple times a day due to their rapid growth.
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Jan 23, 2024
Can adult cats be as playful as kittens?
While adult cats can be playful, they are generally less energetic than kittens.
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Jan 23, 2024
When do kittens start eating solid food?
Kittens typically start eating solid food around 4-6 weeks of age.
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Jan 23, 2024
Do cats get along with other pets?
Cats can get along with other pets, especially if introduced properly and gradually.
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Jan 23, 2024
Are adult cats more territorial than kittens?
Yes, adult cats are more likely to exhibit territorial behaviors.
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Jan 23, 2024
How long do cats usually live?
The average lifespan of a domestic cat is around 12-15 years.
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Jan 23, 2024
Should kittens be vaccinated?
Yes, kittens require a series of vaccinations for protection against diseases.
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Jan 23, 2024
Are cats nocturnal?
Cats are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk.
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Jan 23, 2024
Should cats have a fixed routine?
Cats benefit from a consistent routine for feeding, play, and sleep.
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Jan 23, 2024
How much exercise do kittens need?
Kittens need plenty of play and exercise to support their development.
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Jan 23, 2024
How often should an adult cat see a vet?
Adult cats should have an annual check-up, though more frequent visits may be needed for older cats or those with health issues.
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Jan 23, 2024
Can kittens be trained?
Yes, kittens can be trained, particularly in using the litter box and scratching posts.
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Jan 23, 2024
Do cats need regular grooming?
Yes, cats need regular grooming to maintain coat health and reduce hairballs.
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Jan 23, 2024
What are common health issues in kittens?
Common health issues in kittens include respiratory infections, digestive troubles, and parasites.
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Jan 23, 2024
When do kittens open their eyes?
Kittens typically open their eyes about 7-10 days after birth.
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Jan 23, 2024
What is the best way to socialize a kitten?
Socializing a kitten involves gentle handling, exposure to different people and situations, and positive experiences.
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Jan 23, 2024
Can cats be left alone for long periods?
Cats can be left alone but not for extended periods, as they need food, water, and companionship.
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Jan 23, 2024
How can you tell a kitten's age?
A kitten's age can be estimated by its size, teeth development, and behavior.
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Jan 23, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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