What should I do if my cat rejects kittens? - briefly
If your cat is rejecting her kittens, it's crucial to monitor their well-being closely. Immediate action includes providing supplemental feeding and maintaining their body temperature with a heating pad or warm water bottle until they can regulate it themselves.
What should I do if my cat rejects kittens? - in detail
If your cat is rejecting her kittens, it's crucial to take immediate action as the kittens' survival depends on their mother's care and milk. Here are some steps you can follow:
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Understand the Reasons: Cats may reject their kittens due to various reasons such as stress, inexperience, or health issues. It's important to identify the cause to address it effectively.
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Monitor the Mother and Kittens: Keep a close eye on both the mother cat and her kittens. Look for signs of illness in the mother, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or unusual behavior. Also, check if the kittens are nursing properly and gaining weight.
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Provide a Quiet and Secure Environment: Ensure that the area where the cat and her kittens are located is quiet, warm, and safe from other pets and children. This can help reduce stress for the mother cat and promote bonding with her kittens.
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Support Nursing: If the mother cat allows you to handle the kittens without aggression, you can try to stimulate her maternal instincts by gently placing the kittens near her while she's eating or sleeping. This can sometimes encourage her to start nursing again.
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Supplemental Feeding: If the mother cat is not providing milk, you will need to feed the kittens with a suitable kitten formula and a small bottle or syringe. It's crucial to follow the instructions for preparation and feeding carefully. Never give cow's milk to kittens as it can cause diarrhea and other health issues.
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Keep Kittens Warm: Newborn kittens cannot regulate their body temperature, so it's essential to keep them warm using a heating pad set on low or a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel. Make sure the kittens can move away from the heat source if they get too hot.
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Stimulate Elimination: Until the kittens are around three weeks old, you will need to stimulate their genitals with a damp cotton ball or tissue after each feeding to help them eliminate waste. This is crucial for their health and well-being.
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Seek Veterinary Care: If the mother cat continues to reject her kittens or shows signs of illness, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian immediately. The vet can provide professional advice, rule out any underlying health issues, and offer guidance on how to care for the kittens properly.
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Consider Adoption: In some cases, if the mother cat is persistently rejecting her kittens despite your efforts, it might be best to consider finding a nursing cat or adopting the kittens out to experienced foster parents who can provide the care they need.
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Be Patient and Persistent: It may take time for the mother cat to accept her kittens, so be patient and persistent in your efforts. However, if after a few days there is no improvement, it's essential to seek veterinary assistance.
By following these steps and providing the necessary care and support, you can help ensure the survival and well-being of the rejected kittens.