Final answer:
The statement is false. Puppies and kittens should not be separated from their mother at 4 weeks of age.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "Puppies and kittens can safely be separated from their mother as early as 4 weeks of age" is False.
Newborn puppies and kittens rely on their mother for nourishment, warmth, and socialization. They develop important skills and receive crucial antibodies from their mother's milk during the first few weeks of life. Separating them too early can have negative consequences on their physical and emotional well-being.
It is generally recommended to wait until they are at least 8 weeks old before separating them from their mother and siblings. This allows them to develop important socialization skills, learn from their mother, and become more independent before going to their new homes.