Feline Behaviorist Pam Johnson-Bennett is the author of a number of award-winning and critically acclaimed books, including Think Like a Cat and Psycho Kitty. The innovative methods described in all her books are based on Pam's unique way of training by actually understanding the way a cat thinks. She makes numerous television appearances including CNN, Fox News Channel, and National Geographic specials, as well as being a popular guest on many nationally syndicated radio programs. She is now considered to be one of the leading experts on feline behavior.

Q: Our kitten was only five weeks old when we rescued him. He went through the weaning process just fine, but at the age of three months he started suckling at our ears at night and does not go to sleep at night without it. The process begins again in the morning when he wakes up. He is very adamant about this. Is this normal behavior?

A: Yes, this is normal behavior under the circumstances. This is common among cats who were either weaned too early or abruptly. Since you rescued him at five weeks, he probably didn't get adequate time with his mother. It's not unusual for a young cat to revert to this infantile behavior when he finds himself snuggled up close to you. The surroundings remind him of the warm, secure environment of being nursed by his mother.

Most cats do outgrow this behavior as they mature. You can help by diverting his attention when he starts suckling. Try gently shifting his position so his head is faced away from your ears. Then, pet him as he settles down again.

Also, keep a couple of toys in your nightstand so that in the morning when he comes up and attempts to engage in the behavior, you can offer a toy to distract him.