My kittens are 3 days old and my cat has no milk, what should I do? - briefly
If your cat is not producing milk, it is crucial to intervene immediately. Seek veterinary advice and consider using a kitten milk replacer formula to feed the newborns.
My kittens are 3 days old and my cat has no milk, what should I do? - in detail
When kittens are three days old, they are entirely dependent on their mother's milk for nutrition and immune support. If the mother cat is not producing sufficient milk, immediate action is necessary to ensure the kittens' health and survival. Here are detailed steps to manage this situation:
First, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian. A professional can assess the mother cat's health and determine the cause of the lack of milk production. Common issues include mastitis, hormonal imbalances, stress, or inadequate nutrition. The veterinarian may prescribe medication or supplements to stimulate milk production or address underlying health issues.
In the meantime, the kittens will need an alternative source of nutrition. Kitten milk replacer (KMR) is specially formulated to mimic the composition of cat milk and is available at pet stores and veterinary clinics. To feed the kittens, use a kitten nursing bottle, which can be purchased along with the KMR. Ensure that the bottle and nipples are sterile to prevent infection.
Newborn kittens require frequent feeding. At three days old, they should be fed every 2-3 hours, including throughout the night. Each feeding should provide about 10-15 milliliters of KMR per 100 grams of body weight. It is essential to follow the feeding guidelines on the KMR package and adjust the amount based on the kittens' weight and appetite.
Proper hygiene is vital when handling and feeding newborn kittens. Always wash your hands before and after feeding. Keep the feeding area clean and ensure that the kittens are kept in a warm, draft-free environment. Use a heating pad or heat lamp to maintain a temperature of about 85-90°F (29-32°C) for the first week, gradually decreasing the temperature as the kittens grow.
Monitor the kittens' weight and overall health closely. Kittens should gain weight steadily, and any signs of weight loss, lethargy, or diarrhea should be immediately reported to the veterinarian. Regular weigh-ins can help track their progress and ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition.
In addition to feeding, stimulate the kittens' elimination by gently rubbing their genital and anal areas with a warm, damp cotton ball or soft cloth after each feeding. This mimics the mother cat's tongue and helps the kittens urinate and defecate, as they are not yet able to do so on their own.
Provide a comfortable and safe environment for the kittens. Use a small, enclosed box or carrier lined with soft bedding. Ensure the bedding is clean and changed regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria and parasites. Keep the kittens in a quiet area away from household pets and children to minimize stress and the risk of injury.
If the mother cat's milk production does not improve, consider finding a foster mother or hand-rearing the kittens. A foster mother can provide the necessary nutrition and care, while hand-rearing involves continued use of KMR and close monitoring of the kittens' health and development. Foster mothers can often be found through local animal shelters or rescue organizations.
In summary, the immediate steps involve consulting a veterinarian, providing an alternative milk source, maintaining proper hygiene, and monitoring the kittens' health closely. With diligent care and attention, it is possible to ensure the survival and well-being of newborn kittens even if their mother is not producing sufficient milk.