What should I do if my cat stops feeding her kittens? - briefly
If your cat stops feeding her kittens, immediately consult a veterinarian to assess her health and consider bottle-feeding the kittens with a suitable milk replacement to ensure their survival.
What should I do if my cat stops feeding her kittens? - in detail
If a cat stops feeding her kittens, immediate action is necessary to ensure their survival and health. First, assess the mother cat’s condition, as underlying health issues, stress, or exhaustion may cause her to reject nursing. Consult a veterinarian promptly to rule out medical problems such as mastitis, infections, or nutritional deficiencies. If the mother is physically unable to nurse, you may need to step in and provide supplemental feeding. Use a high-quality kitten milk replacer, as cow’s milk is unsuitable and can cause digestive issues. Feed the kittens every 2-3 hours using a small bottle or syringe, ensuring they are warm and comfortable during feeding. Monitor their weight daily to confirm they are gaining appropriately. Keep the kittens in a warm, quiet environment to reduce stress and mimic the mother’s care. If the mother is healthy but still unwilling to nurse, try gently reintroducing her to the kittens in a calm setting. Sometimes, stress or environmental changes can disrupt the bonding process. If the situation persists, consider fostering the kittens with another lactating cat or seeking advice from a professional breeder or rescue organization. Always prioritize the kittens’ hydration and nutrition, and maintain close communication with your veterinarian to address any complications promptly.