Understanding Lactation in Cats: What Every Owner Should Know

Lactation is a natural process that allows a mother cat (queen) to feed and nurture her kittens after birth. While most queens manage this instinctively, understanding how lactation works and what to look out for can help you support both mother and kittens during these crucial weeks. This guide covers everything you need to know about feline lactation, from milk production to common challenges.

When Does Lactation Begin?

Lactation usually begins immediately after the queen gives birth. In some cases, a small amount of milk may be produced in the days leading up to labour, but full milk production starts once the kittens are delivered and begin nursing. The act of suckling stimulates hormones (prolactin and oxytocin) that trigger milk production and let-down.

How Long Does Lactation Last?

• Queens typically nurse their kittens for six to eight weeks.
• Peak milk production occurs between the third and fourth week, when kittens rely most heavily on milk.
• As weaning begins around four weeks of age, the demand gradually decreases.
• By eight weeks, most kittens are eating solid food and nursing only occasionally, if at all.

Nutritional Needs of a Lactating Cat

Producing milk is energy-intensive, so the queen’s diet is especially important:

• High-calorie food: Feed a high-quality kitten food, which is richer in protein and energy than adult cat food.
• Frequent meals: Offer small, regular meals to support consistent energy intake.
• Hydration: Ensure constant access to fresh water, as dehydration can reduce milk supply.
• Supplements: Generally unnecessary if feeding a complete kitten food, but always consult your vet before giving any supplements.

Caring for the Kittens During Lactation

Kittens should begin nursing within the first couple of hours after birth. Signs they are feeding well include:

• Quietness after feeding (hungry kittens tend to be noisy)
• Round, full bellies
• Steady weight gain

Weighing kittens daily is the best way to ensure they are thriving. Kittens should gain around 10–15 grams per day in the early weeks.

Common Lactation Problems in Cats

Mastitis

An infection of the mammary glands, usually caused by bacteria entering through a scratch or bite. Signs include:

• Swollen, hot, or painful mammary glands
• Redness or discolouration
• Reluctance to let kittens nurse
• Lethargy or fever in the mother

This requires immediate veterinary treatment.

Milk Fever (Hypocalcaemia)

A rare but serious condition caused by low calcium levels during heavy lactation. Symptoms include:

• Restlessness and agitation
• Tremors or muscle twitching
• Loss of coordination
• Seizures in severe cases

This is an emergency and needs urgent veterinary care.

Insufficient Milk Supply

Sometimes the queen cannot produce enough milk. This may be due to stress, illness, or poor nutrition. Signs include kittens crying constantly, failing to gain weight, or trying to nurse excessively. In such cases, supplementary feeding with kitten milk replacer may be necessary under veterinary guidance.

Supporting the Lactating Queen

As an owner, you can help by:

• Providing a calm, quiet nesting area
• Feeding her kitten food throughout lactation
• Keeping the nest clean with regular bedding changes
• Allowing her privacy but checking in regularly
• Ensuring she has easy access to food, water, and a litter tray near her nest

When to Wean Kittens

Weaning usually begins at around four weeks of age. This reduces the strain on the mother and helps kittens transition to independence. During weaning:

• Gradually introduce softened kitten food in shallow dishes
• Continue to allow nursing until around eight weeks
• Monitor both mother and kittens for signs of stress or health issues

Conclusion

Lactation is a vital stage in the life of both the mother cat and her kittens. By providing proper nutrition, monitoring for health problems, and supporting the queen in a safe environment, you can ensure she has the strength to care for her kittens. Understanding the normal process, as well as the warning signs of complications like mastitis or milk fever, allows you to step in quickly if problems arise. With the right care, both mother and kittens will thrive during this critical stage.