My 6-month kitten won't eat solids, gain weight, still nursing. Why?

Question

I have two 6 month old kittens and their mother. One of the kittens has been struggling to adjust to eating solid food and gain weight. He is about 3/4 the size of his brother and his coat is noticably less full and soft. It took him to about 8 weeks of age to eat solid food at all and he still is resistant to eat it. He still tries to nurse off his mother even though he's half a year old now. Should I be concerned? Would it be a good idea to try giving him kitten milk replacement to gain weight. Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 25 days old

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

At six months of age, Ritsu is way past the point of needing to nurse from his mother, and I would not encourage that behavior by giving him kitten milk replacement. It can take some kittens up to eight weeks of age to fully wean, and that's normal. He may be trying to nurse off of her for comfort, but it is concerning he's having trouble gaining weight. First thing to do is to make sure he's eating a high quality kitten formulated food, such as Hills Science diet or Royal Canin. You can try soaking the dry food in gently warmed low sodium chicken or beef broth, or tuna juice to tempt him to eat the dry food. If that works, then slowly reduce the amount of liquid you soak his food in until he's eating the dry only. Also make sure he is up to date on his deworming treatments, as intestinal worms will prevent him from gaining weight. Finally, I would have him seen by a vet for a health check. The vet can identify if there is a medical issues causing him to gain weight, such as an inability to digest nutrients properly, and can discuss treatment with you. I hope this helps :-)

My 6-month kitten won't eat solids, gain weight, still nursing. Why?

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