07/11/2026
Here's a kitten myth: If not fully socialized by 12 weeks, a kitten can't become a wonderful companion.
If you always thought that was true, new research offers some encouraging news.
Researchers followed kittens identified as undersocialized before adoption, including kittens older than 12 weeks, and surveyed their adopters more than a year later. While some of these cats remained more fearful than kittens who had been well-socialized from the start, nearly all adopters reported loving their cats and believed they were happiest living in a traditional home.
The takeaway? An undersocialized kitten may need extra patience, time, and understanding, but these kittens can thrive as beloved companions.
Today is National Kitten Day. What a time for some encouraging kitten news!
Read the study: https://jsmcah.org/index.php/jasv/article/view/150