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Cats/older kitten suckling from pregnant mum!

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Expert: - 7/17/2007


Question
Hi Karen
My cat Wendy is expecting her 2nd litter any day now, but her son from the 1st litter has started suckling again(she hated him last week!)She seems happy with this but i'm concerned if it affecting the unborn kits and what about when they are born?will he still tryto suckle or will mum push him away? Thanks Sarita

Answer
Hi Sarita,

The suckling now won't hurt the unborn kits. But it could be a problem when they are born. Because he is older and bigger he will push the little ones out of the way. If the mom is not pushing him away now she won't later.

You can try to redirect him from this behavior. When he goes to suckle remove him from his mom saying no. Take him to another room, give him a treat and tell him good kitty. Keep up with this. It will take a little time. He will learn that suckling his mom is not good and staying away is better for him. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

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Karen Craft

Expertise

I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!

Experience

I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care. Some thoughts to carry with you. A Cat's 10 Commandments My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it. Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you. If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so. Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.

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I have an A.A.S.

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