Is a drastic kitten behavior change at 6 months normal?

by Rebecca

My kitten is 6 months old and has had a drastic behavioral change in the last week. She has gone from a lively, playful, curious kitten to one that sleeps most of the time and no longer plays, which she used to love. I have tried playing with her ball, paper bag, etc. and she just looks at it.

Is this normal development and she is just becoming a 'cat' instead of a kitten, or might she be sick or stressed out? Her appetite and feces are normal. She was spayed and had all shots from the Humane Society.

Thanks,
Rebecca


Dear Rebecca,

When was your kitten spayed? If she was just spayed recently, it is certainly possible that this is the cause of your kitten's behavior change, and this would be normal.

Also, is your kitten overweight? Being overweight can also play a large role in a cat or kitten's energy level.

Generally, it is normal for kittens to slow down from their crazy kitten-like energy at around six months old. That said, however, your kitten should still be playful and interactive. Because it sounds as though your kitten's behavior has changed quite suddenly and she may even be lethargic, perhaps a trip to the veterinarian would be in order. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

All the best,
Dr. Neely