Summary
Carefully observing the daily changes of weaned kittens from their weight and eating, defecating and urinating habits to energy level is essential. Such changes can be the first indication that there is a problem that needs to be addressed.
Problems to Watch for in Weaning Kittens
Weaning is a challenging and potentially stressful time for kittens, and it’s important to be watchful for problems that may occur as they transition from formula to solid food.
- Kittens do not gain weight daily. You must continue to weigh kittens daily. Weighing is the only way to know if they are taking in enough nutrition. Transitioning from a bottle to solid food is a new experience for them, and kittens are not very efficient at taking in solid food when still in the weaning process.
You may see a plateau in their weight for a day or two, but their weight should not decrease. If there is a decrease in weight but they are otherwise acting normally, offer the kittens an additional feeding with the bottle. Once kittens learn to eat better, the plateau in weight should end, and you should see the kittens gaining weight again every day. - Kittens need to be cleaned. It’s important to clean kittens with a slightly damp, warm cloth after each feeding. Food, whether it is formula or wet food, should not be allowed to remain on the kittens after feeding. Dried-on food or formula attracts bacteria and sticks in the fur, causing clumps of fur to come out.
- Kittens do not allow others to eat. Watch for kittens who are overly possessive of the food and do not allow others to eat. This situation is helped by providing a dish for each kitten or, at the very least, more than one dish.
- Signs of kitten illness. As with all kittens, watch for any signs of illness, including lack of weight gain, nasal or ocular discharge, diarrhea or vomiting.
