As we’ve discussed previously, the Clans run on strict hierarchies, where every cat has specific duties to carry out based on their rank within the Clan. But what are these ranks, what are their associated duties, and how does a cat achieve any given rank? If you want a broader overview of the ranks and how a cat can go from one to another, you can find that in our visual Clan rank flowchart, but here we’ll be taking a more in-depth look at the specific Clan rank of kit.

When a kitten is born into the Clan, they immediately hold the rank of kit. Kits are any cats who have not begun their training to become a full member of the Clan. They hold no responsibilities and have no duties, though certain duties like looking after the elders may be assigned as punishments for wrong-duties. Once they are old enough to do more than crawl at their mother’s belly, most kits spend their time playing with each other. There is no associated ceremony with becoming a Clan kit, even for kits who join from outside of the Clan. A kit’s name is chosen by their parents, with the -kit suffix automatically attached to whatever prefix the parents choose.

Kits are the future of their Clan, and are thus considered precious. A warrior’s duty to protect them, even kits not from their own Clan, is written into the warrior code itself, and no warrior may harm any kit. For their own safety, kits are not allowed to leave camp until they have begun their apprentice training. However, due to their youth, kits are often mischievous and are known for getting into trouble, including sneaking out of camp, as well as getting under the paws of older cats, or messing with the bedding, fresh-kill pile, or herbs.