10 Things You Didn’t Know About Kittens

A Group Is Called a Kindle

While a gathering of adult cats is known as a clowder or glaring, a group of kittens is specifically called a “kindle.”

They Have a Paw Preference

Similar to human handedness, many kittens show a clear preference for using either their left or right paw for tasks like reaching for food or stepping into their litter box.

They Are Often Scared of Cucumbers

Cats may react strongly to cucumbers, leaping away when they unexpectedly encounter one. This reaction likely stems from a natural startle response to unfamiliar objects appearing suddenly in their space.

They Sweat Through Their Paws

Kittens have sweat glands primarily in their paw pads, which is why you might notice damp footprints on hot days or during stressful situations like vet visits.

They Develop a “Righting Reflex” Early

From about three weeks old, kittens begin to develop the ability to twist their bodies in mid-air to land on their feet—a skill known as the righting reflex.

Their Eye Color Changes

All kittens are born with blue eyes. Between three and six months, melanin production often shifts their eye color to shades of green, gold, or amber, though some breeds retain blue eyes.

They Cannot Taste Sweetness

Cats lack taste receptors for sweetness, so they do not perceive sugary flavors the way humans do. Any attraction to sweet foods is likely due to texture or fat content, not taste.

One Kitten Became an Honorary Mayor

A cat named Stubbs served as the honorary mayor of Talkeetna, Alaska, for 20 years—from 1997 to 2017—after being written in as a candidate by locals dissatisfied with human options.

Most Are Lactose Intolerant

Despite the popular image, kittens lose the ability to digest lactose after weaning. Offering cow’s milk can lead to digestive upset, so fresh water is the best drink for cats.

They Have Two Sets of Teeth

Like humans, kittens grow “milk teeth” (26 in total) starting around two to six weeks old. These are replaced by 30 permanent adult teeth by six to nine months of age.