Single kitten vs multi kitten litter in F1

[waitingforgeorge]

What experience has anyone had in behavior differences when a female has and raises a single kitten vs a multi kitten litter. Are there size differences as well? Like is the single kitten jumpier not having been jostled around by sisters and brothers, is there a difference in confidence perhaps? Any insight would be great

 

[Kronos]

I am not a breeder, but I can tell you with dog breeding (not dog breeder either but know more about it) yes it does make a difference although it can be counter acted with extra socialization. With singleton puppy litters the breeder has to make sure that pup is placed with others of the same age in order to properly learn bite inhibition and other important things that are necessary to learn from litter mates during that crucial learning/developmental period.

I would imagine the same can be said for cats, although with less importance because dogs are pack animals while cats are not.

 

[Pam Flachs]

I've only had one singleton litter; that F7A baby was very large when he was born, and as he had complete access to the milk bar, he was very big and plump. For some reason, his mother decided when he was 7 days old that she wanted to raise him in our bed He was very spoiled I think with all the attention he got from us, but very confident and outgoing as well. I would even say he was quite cocky, too, and when I get updates from his owner, he is still a big boy, very confident and intelligent, and made friends with the resident dog very quickly, as well as being super friendly with visitors. He was handled by my grandchildren (as all my kittens are) , so was exposed to a variety of different people handling him before he left, as well as going to shows as a companion to my show kitty, trips to the pet store and visiting shut-in elderly people, playing with some of my adult cats (my older neutered boy is wonderful at teaching the babies "kitty manners"), plus lots of exposure to loud music by my fiance I have honestly never had any of my kittens be "jumpy", whether a single baby or one of 5. I believe that early and proper socialization is one of the most important factors for any kitten, but I have heard of a few kittens who are a bit shy and reserved even with the same socialization as their siblings; although they may grow confident with a wise and patient owner...

 

[shelby]

What experience has anyone had in behavior differences when a female has and raises a single kitten vs a multi kitten litter. Are there size differences as well? Like is the single kitten jumpier not having been jostled around by sisters and brothers, is there a difference in confidence perhaps? Any insight would be great

My F1, Rumor's litters have ranged from 1(first litter) to 8. I noticed no difference in the kittens as far as size, temperament or confidence. I of course make sure the babies are always exposed to noises from day one. They are handled daily(sick of me after a few days;>) ), held and talked to by us and introduced to the other cats once they start stirring around and mama decides it is introduction time.Under her watchful eyes they are free roaming..though we do make sure cat trees are laid down to make sure they don't take a fall.We play with them daily and so far they are quite confident,and have blended in well with their new families. Spoiled little babies they are and learn early how to train the adoptive parents;>) I have to say that some seem to be larger than others, but this is not just in F2s thing. I think everyone sees it in all generations. I will say that a nervous female can encourage or teach her babies to be more cautious of their surroundings. Extra effort may be required in a case like this. Babies are what they see...even in cats...they learn from their mothers very early;>)

 

[waitingforgeorge]

I am not a breeder, but I can tell you with dog breeding (not dog breeder either but know more about it) yes it does make a difference although it can be counter acted with extra socialization. With singleton puppy litters the breeder has to make sure that pup is placed with others of the same age in order to properly learn bite inhibition and other important things that are necessary to learn from litter mates during that crucial learning/developmental period.

I would imagine the same can be said for cats, although with less importance because dogs are pack animals while cats are not.

I think my experiance with the dogs is what prompted the question, but it is an excellent point about cats not being pack animals. All the answeres are great, put my mind to ease a lot! Thank You! My household is very bustling and I feared a kitten coming from a quiet Mom only situation could/would have difficulties adjusting even taking things slow.