nuzzling

[mnwhiterose]

Hey folks - got my 2 babies on Wednesday.

Here they are: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2 ... f47a370ec4

Anyway, they are litter mates, and I've noticed that they cuddle up to each other and nuzzle as they would to their mother and most often times, fall asleep with a nipple in their mouth (typical males). Lately, they have been cuddling next to me when they do this, either in bed or on the couch. I've been told by family friends that litter mates will often do this when they've been taking away from Mom too early and this is a comforting measure. But cuddling next to me while doing it? any suggestions?

[Traci]

Actually, it's a bit unusual since they are older kittens, usually this happens when they are less than 3 months old.

As long as neither is hurting the other, (make sure you examine their skin and that no bruises or rashes/abrasions are present), it shouldn't be worrisome and they will probably grow out of it.

How old are they now? Were they neutered at the shelter?

[mnwhiterose]

They are about 21 weeks old. They were neutered at the shelter.

I haven't noticed anything other than the fur around the nipple is gone. I was told one thing I could do would be to get them each a small stuffed animal, sleep with it to get my scent on it, and give it to each of them when I see them nuzzling, and this should break the habit. I don't know.

[Traci]

A stuffed animal may or may not help, there's no harm in trying. Just be sure the stuffed animal doesn't have pieces and parts that could be chewed off and ingested (like button eyes, tags, bells etc).

[E's]

I hope you will not try to discourage this "nuzzling!" The behavior is indeed a harmless comfort factor and the kittens doing this by you means YOU have been accepted as a safe member of the 'family!' One of the problems of adopting litter mates CAN be that the kittens will bond with each other too much, rather than "imaging" on their humans... so you see, you and these little guys have the best of all possible solutions .

Just give attention to and play with each kitten individually sometimes - as well as with both in some play and grooming sessions. In other words, try to maintain this peaceful, "safe-in-our-nest" atmosphere as long as you can - it will pay off later in adult health and good personalities.

They're beautiful kittens. Thanks for the pics!
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E's Hobbit, Austin, Texas

[mnwhiterose]

No, I'm not discouraging it. I'm rather happy they are so close. I actually 'met' Starsky first at the shelter. Huggy was elsewhere. But then, as I was waiting for Starsky to be adoptable, I found Huggy on the shelter website, and completely fell in love with him. Neither of them like me working on the computer, so when they aren't playing with each other or napping, they are distracting me, each in their own way. Starsky will snuggle next to my leg and put his paw on the computer. Huggy will jump on the back of the couch and headbutt me. I've left my bedroom open the past couple days, and when I come home, they are both jumping off my bed, which is a good sign. And I know they have been in my son's room to sleep with him at night sometimes. So far my little babies are adapting well.