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Cats/Male cat nursing off his brother
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Question
I recently brought home two male littermates from our local shelter. One of the brothers likes to "nurse" on his brother. This does not bother his brother in the slightest, fortunately, but I'm curious - is this common? Is it a security issue?
HI Jessica,
Yes this is quite common in littermates, and normally the behavior goes away. They do it for security, like sucking a thumb or a pacifier. Do be careful to check the kittens' skin daily - from time to time this nursing can become excessive and to the point that the kitten being nursed on gets sores. If that happens, you'll need to separate the kittens until the kitten with sores heals.
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Answers by Expert:
Tina
Expertise
I can answer questions on: cat nutrition and diet, behavior, behavior problems, training, general health, socialization/taming feral cats, TVAR, trapping feral cats, feline nutrition, and cat care. My favorite questions are on the topic of nutrition and I have special experience with hyperthyroidism in cats. Please do NOT ask me if you should take your cat to the vet - if you have any reason to suspect your cat is ill or injured please call your vet immediately!
Experience
5 years as volunteer adoption co-ordinator for a nonprofit volunteer cat rescue group. Experience working in a veterinary clinic. Current occupation: Research Scientist.
Education/Credentials
MS Biomedical Science
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