Sensory development of Felis catus

Abstract

The sensory development of 22 kittens was observed for 12 weeks. Vision-related responses began as a palpebral reflex at 1·8 days and continued as a light blink response at 5·7 days (mean values). The eyes unsealed between days 6 and 17 and the pupillary reflex was well developed within a few days. Depth perception began at 13·2 days mean. Auditory development progressed rapidly after the opening of the external canals between days 7 and 14. Pain and rooting reflexes were present at birth, while auriculonasocephalic and Galant's reflexes were highly variable.