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The litter tray

Join our community of cat lovers on the Mumsnet Cat forum for kitten advice and help with cat behaviour.

Mum is bopping one of her kids

2 replies

Kittyoclock · 21/04/2026 23:51

I adopted a mummy cat and her two kittens (1 boy, 1 girl) over 18 months ago. All good and they are a great bunch and are living their best life. However it seems that the girl kitten is very shy and reclusive, usually spending the day alone whilst the mother and boy kitten are much more bonded and even sleep curled up together. The girl kitten will stay in the same room but generally keeps her distance from them.n In recent weeks, her mum has started to bop her on the head if she comes near. They aren't fighting but it's a clear signal to naff off it seems 😕 the girl kitten is already shy and further not helped that she is very different to the boy kitten who is extremely active and curious about everything. They are all playful in their own way but I'd like to improve things for the girl kitten. She is ever so sweet and will come to me for cuddles on my bed - but only if there is no one else around.

Anyone have any tips of improving their bond as well as building the girl kitten's confidence? TIA

OP posts:
Overtheatlantic · 22/04/2026 04:24

I don’t know that you can change the mum’s behaviour but you can increase your own interactions with the girl and increase your bond with her. Playing with her, lots of stroking and talking to her. Sit with her in the garden if you have one. Just basically encourage her to bond with you and choose your company. Poor baby.

Puppylucky · Yesterday 12:16

Agree with the above. For what ever reason mum seems to have taken against the girl kit and it may be up to you to give her the cuddles she's seeking.

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