What should I do if my cat gives birth but doesn't feed her kittens, and how should I feed them? - briefly
If your cat has given birth and is not feeding her kittens, immediately contact a veterinarian for professional guidance. You may need to bottle-feed the kittens with specialized kitten formula every 2-3 hours, ensuring they receive proper nutrition and hydration.
What should I do if my cat gives birth but doesn't feed her kittens, and how should I feed them? - in detail
If your cat has given birth but is not feeding her kittens, it is crucial to take immediate action to ensure the health and survival of the newborns. Several factors could contribute to this situation, including maternal exhaustion, illness, or rejection of the kittens. The first step is to assess the mother's health. If she appears lethargic, has a fever, or shows signs of illness, consult a veterinarian promptly. She might require medical attention to recover and resume nursing.
If the mother cat is healthy but still not feeding her kittens, you will need to step in and provide the necessary care. Newborn kittens rely solely on their mother's milk for the first few weeks of life. In the absence of maternal nursing, you will need to bottle-feed the kittens with a suitable kitten milk replacer. Do not use cow's milk, as it can cause digestive issues in kittens. Specialized kitten milk replacers are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of newborn kittens and are available at pet stores and veterinary clinics.
To prepare for bottle-feeding, gather the following supplies:
- Kitten milk replacer
- Bottles and nipples designed for kittens
- A feeding syringe (in case the kittens are too small for a bottle)
- Warm water
- A clean towel or blanket
Follow these steps to feed the kittens:
- Warm the milk replacer to body temperature (approximately 95-100°F or 35-38°C). You can do this by placing the bottle in a bowl of warm water.
- Test the temperature on your wrist before feeding to ensure it is not too hot.
- Hold the kitten in a semi-upright position, similar to how the mother cat would nurse.
- Gently insert the nipple into the kitten's mouth and allow it to suckle. Be patient and let the kitten control the pace of feeding.
- Feed the kittens small amounts frequently, approximately every 2-3 hours, including overnight. Newborn kittens need to be fed around the clock.
In addition to feeding, kittens require stimulation to urinate and defecate. Use a warm, damp cotton ball or soft cloth to gently stimulate the genital and anal areas after each feeding. This mimics the mother cat's tongue and helps the kittens eliminate waste.
Monitor the kittens' weight and overall health closely. They should gain weight steadily. If a kitten fails to gain weight, appears lethargic, or shows signs of illness, consult a veterinarian immediately. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to ensure the kittens are developing properly.
Providing round-the-clock care for newborn kittens is demanding, but with dedication and the right supplies, you can help them thrive. Always prioritize their health and well-being, and do not hesitate to seek professional veterinary advice when needed.