A newborn kitten is barely breathing, what should I do? - briefly
If a kitten is barely breathing, it is imperative to act swiftly. Immediately contact a veterinarian for guidance and carefully monitor the kitten's breathing while awaiting instructions.
A newborn kitten is barely breathing, what should I do? - in detail
When dealing with a newborn kitten that is barely breathing, immediate and careful action is crucial. Here is a detailed guide on what to do:
First, ensure your safety and the safety of the kitten. Wear gloves to protect yourself from any potential infections and to avoid leaving human scent on the kitten, which could cause the mother cat to reject it. Place the kitten in a warm, draft-free area. Newborn kittens are highly susceptible to hypothermia, so maintaining a warm environment is vital. Use a heating pad or a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel, ensuring the kitten does not come into direct contact with the heat source to prevent burns.
Assess the kitten's breathing. If the kitten is not breathing or is breathing very weakly, you may need to perform feline CPR. Place the kitten on a flat surface and gently extend its neck to open the airway. Check for any obstructions in the mouth or throat and remove them if possible. Perform chest compressions by placing your thumb and index finger on either side of the kitten's chest, just behind the front legs. Compress the chest gently but firmly, about 1-2 times per second. After 30 compressions, give two gentle puffs of air into the kitten's nose using your mouth, ensuring not to over-inflate the lungs.
If the kitten is cold, it is essential to warm it up gradually. Use a warm (not hot) water bottle or a heating pad set to low. Wrap the heating source in a towel and place the kitten on top. Monitor the kitten's temperature carefully to avoid overheating. The ideal temperature for a newborn kitten is around 95-100°F (35-38°C).
Hydration is another critical factor. Newborn kittens can quickly become dehydrated. If the kitten is not nursing, you may need to provide fluid support. Use a syringe or a dropper to administer small amounts of warm, unsweetened, unflavored Pedialyte or a kitten-specific electrolyte solution. Administer the fluid slowly and carefully to avoid choking.
If the kitten does not improve within a few minutes, seek immediate veterinary care. A veterinarian can provide advanced medical support, such as oxygen therapy, fluid therapy, and other necessary treatments. Time is of the essence, and professional intervention can significantly improve the kitten's chances of survival.
While waiting for veterinary assistance, continue to monitor the kitten's breathing and temperature. Keep the kitten warm and hydrated, and be prepared to perform CPR if necessary. Remember that newborn kittens are fragile, and handling them gently is essential to avoid causing further harm.
In summary, when a newborn kitten is barely breathing, it is crucial to act quickly and carefully. Ensure the kitten is warm, clear the airway if necessary, perform chest compressions and rescue breathing, provide hydration, and seek immediate veterinary care. Your prompt and appropriate actions can make a significant difference in the kitten's survival and well-being.