How does a cat stop feeding its kittens? - briefly
A cat gradually stops feeding its kittens as they begin to eat solid food, typically around 4 to 6 weeks of age, and weaning is usually complete by 8 to 10 weeks.
How does a cat stop feeding its kittens? - in detail
A mother cat gradually reduces nursing her kittens as they grow older, a process that aligns with their natural development and increasing independence. Initially, kittens rely entirely on their mother’s milk for nutrition, but around four weeks of age, they begin to explore solid food. This marks the start of the weaning process. The mother cat encourages this transition by bringing small prey or partially chewed food to the kittens, stimulating their curiosity and teaching them to eat independently. Over the next few weeks, she reduces the frequency of nursing sessions, often by spending less time with the kittens or moving away when they attempt to nurse. By eight to ten weeks of age, most kittens are fully weaned and no longer depend on their mother’s milk. During this period, the mother cat may also display behaviors such as gently pushing the kittens away or growling softly to discourage nursing, signaling that it is time for them to become self-sufficient. This gradual reduction in feeding ensures the kittens develop the necessary skills to thrive on their own while maintaining a strong bond with their mother.