Pet love - part II

I often compare experiences I have with cute cat to those mothers report having with their kids. When I refer to my cat in this context, it is often lauged at, or frowned upon. But what is really the difference? When both kids and animals are small, you notice changes almost every day. Progress in learning; if it is a new baby facial expression, or a kitten learning to fetch a toy. Progress in communication; a new baby sound, or a new kitten mjau. Progress in physical properties; a baby sitting up, or a kitten jumping higher. Or increases in baby weight or kitten weight. Showing fear, happiness, anger, etc. Your worry when bringing them to the doctor / veterinarian and something might be wrong, or turns out to actually be wrong.

What is really the difference at this stage between a baby or a kitten?