16 week old cat trying to suckle on sibling! What to do?!?!?

by Julie`
(Oregon)

Hello, I know this sounds weird but I have two 16 week old siamese tabby mix brother kittens (one short hair, one long hair). We recently noticed that the short hair, suckles or "nurses" on his longhair sibling! The long hair kitten seems to allow this behavior from his brother and doesn't try to suckle in return... I have tried getting a kitten bottle and have made kitty "glop" (formula replacement) but it doesn't seem to satisfy him. Any suggetions?
If you'd like video I can get some for your reference. Thank you, I appreciate your reply asap, as we worry about him digesting hair and hurting his brother's belly. ~Julie

Reply
Hi
this can be a common issue for some kittens. usually cats are fully weaned between week 8 and 12. However some kittens take a little longer.

this suckling behavior needs to be stopped to prevent sores appearing on the other kitten.

When ever you see him doing it move him away and distract his attention with a toy. he will eventually grow out of this phase as he moves completely onto solid food.

i have a page about kitten weaning which you may find of further interest here
http://www.our-happy-cat.com/kitten-weaning.html

best wishes kate