What dogncatluvr says is true, this can occur not only in cats taken from mom too early, it can occur in cats whose mothers had the same habit whether the cat was with mother or not!

Additionally this practice can occur because the cats don't like the way your particular brand of litter feels on their paws. Since your cats seem uncomfortable and seem to perform the proper actions (in the wrong place), that may be the case in your situation.

[This message has been edited by EileenKay (edited October 14, 2000).]