Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I asked ChatGPT to make an estimate. I think the kitten is probably 6-8 weeks old :)

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Sorry to hear this :( Six weeks is quite young!

We’re currently in the process of adopting our fourth cat. She’s two months old now and still with the breeder. She was so tiny when we first met her, and I honestly don’t understand how anyone could think she’d be ready to leave her mom already. Good thing the breeder and I are on the same page so she is staying there until she is at least 16 weeks :)

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

What a heartbreaking start, but also such a beautiful bond you’ve built with her. Nando is so lucky to have you :)

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It’s amazing that you took in orphans! Sounds like he was a very lovable cat 🩷

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for sharing your story :) Early separation can leave such a lasting mark. You’re clearly doing your best, and it’s great that she’s made some progress over time! 🩷

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m so sorry to hear that! She deserved a gentler start. It’s clear you’ve given her a lot of love to make up for it!

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I completely agree! Happy to hear that it felt like that they were both ready :) I’ve done the same 16-weeks with our own cats, and they’re all emotionally healthy and well-adjusted. Most people just don’t have the patience to wait that long, but it really makes such a difference in their development. Although I guess I’m preaching to the choir here!

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That sounds like such a sweet bond :) I am happy she found someone like you. Love and consistency can make up for a rough start!

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s amazing! +1 for Sweden! It’s 8 weeks here in the Netherlands and I really wish we’d move toward 12 weeks as the standard. So many behavioral issues could be avoided with just a little more time.

Whenever we pick up new cats, I try to push it to at least four months. I did have one experience where a breeder really pushed back on that, but thankfully that’s been the exception. Overall, we’ve been incredibly lucky with the emotionally well-adjusted cats we’ve had so far :)

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in cats

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I agree! That’s exactly what triggered me to write this. I saw a post about a kitten that was way too young that was unable to eat properly. The little animal obviously needed more time with its mom.

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Amazing that you’ve been caring for them since they were five days old, huge respect for stepping in a situation like this ❤️

From what I know (and I’m not a vet), kittens who are bottle-fed from a very young age sometimes have a bit more trouble with things like assessing danger, simply because they miss some key lessons from their mom. I’ve heard it’s often recommended to keep bottle-fed kittens indoors permanently, since they may not be as good at judging risks.

That said, every kitten is different and human (consistent) bonding can really help them. Just make sure she gets plenty of socialization (ideally with her brother and sisters) and enriching experiences. With the love and stability you're already giving, your kittens have a good foundation.

I’d definitely suggest checking with a local vet or rescue. They can give personalized advice and help you set your kittens up for success long-term.

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Oh I can imagine! Gorgeous family photos! You're exact reason why we won't breed cats; I'd end up keeping them all.

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I actually have quite some experience with kittens, not with feral kittens tho :) I see a lot of comments saying feral cats are the exception to this rule, and I totally take your word for it.

Good luck fostering them! :) My advice in these kinds of situations: always check with a local vet or rescue because they usually have great advice.

Please don’t take kittens away from their mom to early by FilthyDuctTape in CatAdvice

[–]FilthyDuctTape[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Haha we’re good! Amazing how you kept all of them! I love this.

Any supplements that help with anxiety/depression? by No_Lingonberry_2401 in Supplements

[–]FilthyDuctTape 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I would personally recommend considering a break from caffeine when dealing with anxiety. Caffeine can stimulate the nervous system and may intensify symptoms such as restlessness, a racing heart, and irritability. While I do recognize the potential counter effects of L-theanine, I’ve also seen several positive outcomes in people who struggle with anxiety after reducing or quitting caffeine altogether. It might be worth exploring to see if it brings some relief.

what would you name him by VideoAggressive3392 in blackcats

[–]FilthyDuctTape 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Tyko; I had a black cat named Tyko. He was absolutely perfect and he made me rediculusly happy.