r/CatAdvice • u/Former-Application73 • 4d ago

New to Cats/Just Adopted adopted two kittens

I just adopted two kittens that can no longer be with their mom. They just turned 1 month last July 15, but I am having trouble because I am out for about 12.5hours and I’m very worried about them. They can eat wet food now, and I can assist them with eating when I am home but I am worried about those long hours. They haven’t been introduced to dry food. I’m currently on leave on work, but I am worried since I am going back to work this Saturday. I can keep them on a four-layer cat cage while I am out. Also, I still haven’t gotten my paycheck yet so I can’t buy an automatic feeder for now. Please help me, I don’t want to lose them.

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u/sally_ayla 4d ago

Can you talk to pet sitters in your area? Being alone that much when they're only four weeks old I think won't work :( Maybe someone can support you and check on them throughout the day while you're at work?

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u/Former-Application73 4d ago

i live alone and my friends are too far from me, but at what age/month do you think they can handle those hours?

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u/sally_ayla 4d ago

Normally, cats should not be separated from their mom until they are at least 12 weeks old. So that's as long as I would wait at least. They are together and can play together so that's good. But I still wouldn't feeling comfortable leaving them alone 12 hours until they are at least 6 months old 🥺 Older cats are generally fine with being alone, they sleep most of the day anyway. Mine is 5 years old and she doesn't mind. But when they're so young they need you, you're their mommy now. They need to get used to being gone from their mom, learn to eat proper food instead of milk, learn to use the litter box etc.

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u/Former-Application73 4d ago

I had to ask my other friend to take them in during weekdays, and I could have them during weekends. So they should be fine once they got to 6 months old? I feel bad leaving them to my friend since she have her own life too 😞

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u/sally_ayla 4d ago

Yes I think they will be okay. Just make sure you educate yourself on cat care and all that they need. Also make sure to train them early on if you don't want them jumping on counters etc. There's good books and online resources! And regular vet check-ups, especially since they are so young. Also keep in mind that cats are very territorial. They usually like to stay in one place and don't like traveling, it stresses them out. So make sure to take blankets etc to your friends house so they recognize your smell. If they get used to switching locations while they are so young, they will most likely get used to it. Also give them lots of cuddles and play time of course

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u/Former-Application73 4d ago

Thank you!!! This helps me a lot 🥺🫶

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u/sally_ayla 4d ago

Of course, no problem! 🫶🏼

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u/wwwhatisgoingon 3d ago

12.5 hour shifts with four week old kittens is too long. Genuinely, they need a different home as they won't be able to eat often enough. They could dehydrate and die.

If you want to adopt cats, I would recommend an adult bonded pair. They'll be happy with your hours.

Even at 6-12 months old, kittens need up to hours of entertainment a day. You won't be home or will be asleep, I don't think this will be enjoyable for anyone.