What signs indicate kittens are ready for weaning?

Recognizing the signs of weaning readiness can help avoid digestive disasters. Your little one displays telltale signs that he is ready to transition to the solid food banquet table. Having raised over 30 litters since 2014, I have learned to recognize these signs as well as their importance. Ignoring them leads to malnourished or dehydrated wee ones. Calling him to the table in a timely fashion will complement his aging process.

Teeth development. Incisors and canines typically appear for chewing around four weeks after birth. Lift gently on the lip to take a look. Weight equates to digestive maturity, with a minimum of 440g (15.5oz) recommended for kittens. I weigh mine every day. This tells you that enzymes are being produced.

Mobility betokens neurological readiness. Kittens stand firmly supported on tiptoes, with their tails held upright, before advancing to food; their eyes follow your movements as you move about among the bowls. Orphans show these signs earlier than do the mother-reared kittens. It is in the third week, when he manifests these signs very distinctly, that I begin to wean the orphan.

Changes in the appetite are signs that the kittens may be biologically ready to transition to solid food. Less interest in nursing Borzois means they want solid food. Mother cats begin distancing themselves from their kittens at four weeks. You can try your pudding finger with a drop or two of formula if they are orphans. If they lick at it, they're ready for weaning. My 2019 litter showed me they were prepared at 23 days of age.

Mark all of this as what you think before beginning. Premature weaning resulted in diarrhea in all three kittens I cared for. Always check teeth, weight, mobility, and interest in food together. Missing one sign will set us back at best. Be patient, babies won't be kittens, and you can keep them on wet food as long as you like.

Read the full article: Kitten Weaning Age: 3 to 8 Weeks Guide