When should I start weaning kittens?
Written by
John Williams
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.The right kitten weaning age is essential for kittens' health. Orphaned kittens normally start at three weeks, while kittens with mothers are weaned at around four weeks. This is when their teeth begin to erupt and their digestive systems are sufficiently developed. Almost every litter of kittens I have raised since 2016 has been weaned at around the proper time. If you try to wean kittens too early, it is dangerous for their health; at the very least, they will be malnourished.
Check for signs of physical readiness before starting. Kittens should have visible incisor teeth and weigh at least 0.44 kilograms (440 grams). They show that they are ready by being able to move steadily about with the tail in the air. A lessened interest in nursing is an indication of the desire to explore solid foods. You can rely on the mother cat to demonstrate all the right habits. Orphans need to be assisted -- try finger lickings!
Physical Development
- Incisor teeth visible (4 weeks for mother-raised)
- Weight reaching 440g/15.5oz minimum
- Steady walking with tail raised position
Behavioral Signs
- Sniffing or pawing at food bowls
- Reduced nursing duration and frequency
- Following mother to eating areas
Once you begin the weaning process, follow this step-by-step approach. On day one, they will eat mush made from formulas, mixed with wet food. On the fourth day, they should have moistened kibble. By the end of the week, they'll want their food to be dry, and you can continue their bottle feeding until they're taking solids regularly. Daily checkups on their weights will determine if they're progressing normally.
Keep an eye on their health as you go through this process. Weigh the kittens every morning before feeding them, aiming for a minimum of 10 grams of daily weight gain. Check for dehydration by assessing skin elasticity. Diarrhea requires urgent changes to the formula. I speak to my vet if I have issues for more than twelve hours.
Weaning sets the kitten up for a healthy adult life. Kittens who are eating solids by the time they're eight weeks old will have a stronger immune system, be friendlier, and demonstrate fewer behavioral problems; my earliest foster kittens ended up with stellar homes because we weaned them at the right time.
Read the full article: Kitten Weaning Age: 3 to 8 Weeks Guide
