Post-Weaning Cat Feeding: What & How to Feed Your Kitte

Part 1: When is the Best Time to Wean a Kitten?

Generally, kittens are weaned around the age of 42 days, a decision largely influenced by the mother cat's milk production and temperament. If the mother has a prolonged lactation period and is patient, her kittens may continue to nurse for about two months.

However, as kittens develop their milk teeth around one month old, continuous nursing can become painful for the mother. Moreover, as they grow, kittens require more nutrients, and continued breastfeeding can lead to malnutrition in the mother cat.

Therefore, it is recommended to start weaning kittens at around 42 days old, gradually introducing other types of food. By 45 days, they should be fully weaned. It's not advisable to wean them before 40 days, as their immune systems are still developing, and introducing new foods can disrupt their digestive systems, potentially leading to diarrhea and dehydration.

Part 2: What to Feed a Kitten After Weaning?

1. During the weaning period, you can offer your kitten easily digestible foods such as kitten kibble, canned food, and goat's milk powder. The kitten's digestive system needs time to adjust to solid foods. It's common for kittens to have a few episodes of vomiting when they first start eating kibble, but they usually adapt within a week. If vomiting persists or is severe, consult a veterinarian.

2. When weaning, avoid overfeeding or introducing too many different types of food. Stick to kitten formula or softened kibble soaked in goat's milk. Mixing too many foods can cause gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea, while overfeeding can lead to indigestion and vomiting.

3. Never feed kittens cow's milk, as it can cause lactose intolerance and diarrhea. If your kitten seems thirsty after weaning, offer them plain water; avoid tap water, which may contain more bacteria.

Part 3: Additional Tips for Feeding Young Kittens

1. If a kitten is separated from its mother after weaning, ensure its sleeping area is warm, especially for kittens under one month old. You can place a hot water bottle or an electric blanket in the kitten's bed, or use a lowlight ceramic lamp for warmth.

2. At around two months old, if the kitten is healthy, it should receive vaccinations. Always take your kitten to a reputable veterinary clinic or station for vaccinations, not a pet store, as there is no guarantee of safety. Vaccinations are crucial for building immunity and enhancing the kitten's ability to fight viruses.

3. After weaning, kittens are very active. This is a good time to trim their claws and provide them with toys to prevent them from scratching each other or damaging furniture. Also, ensure the balcony is securely closed to prevent accidental falls.

That's all for now regarding kitten weaning and feeding. If you have any more questions, feel free to consult an online veterinary expert!