How many days does a cat have colostrum? - briefly
A cat typically produces colostrum for the first 1 to 2 days after giving birth, providing essential nutrients and antibodies to her newborn kittens.
How many days does a cat have colostrum? - in detail
Cats produce colostrum, a nutrient-rich and antibody-packed fluid, during the initial days after giving birth. This special milk is essential for the health and development of newborn kittens, as it provides them with vital nutrients and passive immunity. Typically, a mother cat produces colostrum for the first 24 to 48 hours after delivery. During this period, the kittens’ digestive systems are uniquely adapted to absorb the antibodies present in colostrum, which helps protect them from infections and diseases in their early life. After this initial phase, the colostrum transitions into regular milk, which continues to nourish the kittens as they grow. Ensuring that kittens receive colostrum within the first few hours of life is critical, as their ability to absorb antibodies diminishes significantly after the first day. This natural process underscores the importance of monitoring the mother cat and her litter closely in the immediate postpartum period.