Here's what we know:
Likely Similarities to Modern Big Cat Offspring:
* Gestation Period: It's likely they had a similar gestation period to modern lions or tigers, around 100-110 days.
* Litter Size: Saber-toothed tiger litters were probably similar in size to modern big cats, ranging from 2-4 cubs.
* Vulnerability: Like other big cat cubs, saber-toothed tiger cubs would have been born blind and helpless, relying heavily on their mother for protection and care.
* Socialization: It's plausible that saber-toothed tiger cubs engaged in playful interaction, learning vital hunting and social skills from their mother.
Differences from Modern Big Cats:
* Development Rate: Since saber-toothed tigers were larger than most modern big cats, their cubs may have taken slightly longer to reach full maturity.
* Hunting Skills: Given the saber-toothed tiger's unique hunting style, their cubs would have needed to learn specific techniques to utilize their large canines effectively.
Important Note: We lack direct evidence about the specific details of saber-toothed tiger offspring. However, studying the fossils and comparing them to modern big cats provides valuable insights into their lives and development.