What should I do if the cat rejects the kitten? - briefly
Ensure the kitten is kept warm and fed properly, and gradually reintroduce it to the mother cat in a calm and supervised environment to encourage bonding.
What should I do if the cat rejects the kitten? - in detail
If a cat rejects a kitten, it is essential to address the situation with care and patience. First, observe the behavior closely to confirm the rejection. Signs include the mother cat ignoring the kitten, refusing to nurse, or displaying aggression. If rejection is evident, ensure the kitten’s immediate safety by separating it from the mother to prevent harm. Provide the kitten with a warm, comfortable environment, as kittens cannot regulate their body temperature effectively. Use a heating pad or a warm blanket, but avoid direct contact to prevent overheating. Feeding is critical; if the kitten is very young, you will need to bottle-feed it with kitten formula every 2-3 hours. Follow proper feeding techniques to avoid aspiration, and stimulate the kitten to urinate and defecate by gently wiping its genital area with a warm, damp cloth after each feeding. Monitor the kitten’s health closely, as rejected kittens are more vulnerable to illness. If any signs of distress, weakness, or illness appear, consult a veterinarian immediately. Simultaneously, try to understand the reason for the mother cat’s rejection. Stress, illness, or inexperience can contribute to this behavior. If the mother cat is unwell, seek veterinary care for her. In some cases, reintroducing the kitten gradually may help. Start by placing the kitten near the mother in a controlled environment and observe her reaction. Use calming pheromones or familiar scents to reduce tension. If the mother continues to reject the kitten, you may need to assume full responsibility for its care or seek assistance from a foster caregiver experienced in raising neonatal kittens. Patience and consistency are key to ensuring the kitten’s survival and well-being.