Posted by:
DestanyF
at Thu Aug 5 23:24:08 2004 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by DestanyF ]
Well typically, the mom will begin to wean the kittens around four weeks of age. That is when she doesn't allow them to nurse as often, and when you begin offer softened food. Usually, by 6 weeks, they are weaned or nearly weaned. It's not uncommon for mother cats to continue to nurse for eight weeks or sometimes more. Yes, I was told that once the kittens are older (like around ten weeks) nursing can cause stress to the mothers milk glands and that it is believed to increase the risk of cancer. I've also heard by a member here, that she had a cat who experienced an absess in the mammary gland due to a puncture, most likely caused by a kitten claw.
Some people are still adamant that the mother will wean when she is ready, but when it's no longer necessary for them to nurse, and the cat's health could be at risk, it's my opinion to separate the mother or find a way to prevent her from nursing. I did this with Myrtle, also because I needed to have her spayed. I used a tube sock, cut arm and leg holes, as well as modified it so that she could use the bathroom freely without soiling it. But since this cat has long hair, a tube sock may be to tight.
Destany
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Myrtle - Queen Diva Mommy Cat
April - Little Miss Beauty Pagent
Mina - Professional Kitty Acrobat
Ringo - Brat Extraordonaire
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RE: MATTING ON BELLY FROM NURSING.... - DestanyF, Thu Aug 5 23:24:08 2004