Kitten Nest Time...

My 2 orphaned kittens with no mother are starting their sixth week of life today.

How much time do kittens at this age usually spend in their nest?

I'm concerned because now that they're running, jumping and pouncing, I made a large play area for them and they NEVER use it on their own. As soon as I go in there and interact with them, they use it. But when I leave, they go back into the nest and sleep.

Most kittens at six weeks should be running around, mine usually have the run of their room by that point. Try to encourage them to come out as much as possible. They're probably just a little nervous when you're not there since you're like their mother, and when your gone they feel more vulnerable. It's good that they have each other, but they should be moving around more now. Try bringing in a ribbon or something for them to play with.

Thanks for the reply! I picked up some kitten toys at Petsmart last week. Some "chewey plastic mice" for teething. Tiny little tennis ball type things. And, one of those cardboard "play houses". They're afraid of all of it...

Roll a ball at them, they run the other way. I had to take the chewey mice out of there, they wouldn't walk near them.

The only thing they seem to want to play with is my index finger!

I think I'll try the ribbon! Something has to motivate them.

But, they may not be feeling well, they've been really upset at their stomach today.

Sometimes it's the homemade toys that work the best . Ribbons have always worked quite well since it doesn't really scare them, and their hunters instinct kicks in. I hope they feel better!