Kittens can safely leave their mother starting at about 8 weeks old, when they are fully weaned and eating solid food independently. However, it is generally better for kittens to stay with their mother until around 12 weeks old to ensure proper socialization, emotional development, and health. Staying longer with their mother and littermates helps kittens learn important skills and reduces risks of behavioral problems.

Key Developmental Milestones for Leaving Mom

• Fully weaned by 8 weeks (nursing ends, solid food consumption)
• Litter trained and using the litter box consistently
• Healthy weight and steady growth
• Social confidence and comfortable interaction with humans and other animals
• Demonstrating some independent play and exploration

Benefits of Staying Until 12 Weeks

• More complete socialization and learning from the mother cat
• Reduced behavioral issues and stress symptoms
• Better emotional development leading to well-adjusted adult cats

In summary, while 8 weeks is a minimum age under ideal conditions, 10 to 12 weeks is preferred for ensuring the kitten’s health and well-being before separation from the mother.