Why is My 20-Day-Old Kitten Wandering Everywhere? Causes and Solutions

It's not unusual to see a kitten around 20 days old starting to explore beyond its nest. This behavior, while seemingly adventurous, can be triggered by several factors, including hunger or feeling insecure in its surroundings. To address this, providing adequate nourishment and ensuring a calm environment are key to keeping your little one from wandering too much.

What To Do When Your 20-Day-Old Kitten Is Wandering?

1. Check for Hunger: Especially with adopted kittens who might be separated from their mother, they may wander and meow to seek nourishment. This behavior suggests a strong need for food. At this age, kittens should be fed kitten milk replacer, ideally a goat milk-based formula, rather than solid food. Their digestive systems aren't ready to process cat food. Goat milk formula is gentler and easier for them to digest. If the kitten still has its mother, allowing the mother to nurse it is the optimal solution. This will satisfy their needs and likely stop the wandering.

2. Ensure a Safe and Calm Environment: Sometimes, kittens wander when they feel unsafe or stressed in their current environment, prompting them to seek a more secure place. Gently stroking your kitten can help calm it down. Then, move them to a quieter, more secure area that promotes feelings of safety. This helps reduce the urge to wander.

Normally, kittens who are with their mothers don't roam around too much, and their mothers will also prevent them from going too far. However, if a 20-day-old kitten is constantly wandering, it's essential to address the underlying issue to ensure their well-being. A secure and comfortable environment with sufficient food will help stop the kitten from wandering.