Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why aren't my 4-week-old kittens pooping or eating solid food?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 1 month old | 9 lbs

My cat had kittens 4 weeks ago and she is still licking their butts so they haven't pooped on there own AT ALL. I am positive about this. Should I do something? Also, she was eating some wet food and just be being curious I got a tiny bit on my finger and checked if either of the kittens wanted to try it and they didn't. Is it ok that they aren't interested in food yet or should I be trying to get the interested? Thank you so much. (Picture included of her helping one pee/poo)

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 8th, 2019

At four weeks of age, they should start pooping on their own and being weaned onto kitten food. To help them wean and to get used to dry food, I would soak a high quality kitten formulated dry food in warm water until soft. Then mix that with kitten formula such as KMR to make a mush the consistency of oatmeal. Over the next two weeks, gradually increase the amount of dry kitten food and decrease the amount of water and KMR you use until they are eating the dry kitten food only. As for not pooping on their own, give it another week to see if they become more independent. If they don't, have them seen by a vet. Best of luck.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 7th, 2018

    I would put a litter box out for the kitten. I recommend pine litter or yesterday’s news, something that is larger and won’t stick to his coat as kittens love to lay in the litter box. You can also put another cardboard box with a towel or blanket nearby so he will go there instead if the litter box. It’s fine for you to take a warm damp cloth and massage below his tail and around the butt area to stimulate him to go. Usually they will start to use a litter box and go on their own at that age. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Valentine.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored