What to do if a cat gives birth and does not feed its kittens, what to feed the kittens with? - briefly
If a cat gives birth but does not feed her kittens, immediate action is required. You can use a syringe or a small bottle to feed the kittens with a specialized milk replacement formula designed for newborn kittens.
What to do if a cat gives birth and does not feed its kittens, what to feed the kittens with? - in detail
If a cat gives birth but does not feed its kittens, it is crucial to take immediate action to ensure the survival of the newborns. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Monitor the Mother Cat: First, observe the mother cat closely. She might be experiencing stress or exhaustion due to the birthing process. Ensure she has access to food and water, and a quiet, comfortable place to rest.
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Check for Health Issues: If the mother cat is not feeding her kittens, there could be underlying health issues such as mastitis (inflammation of the mammary glands), hypocalcemia (low calcium levels), or other medical conditions that require veterinary attention. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect any health problems.
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Hand-Feeding the Kittens: If the mother cat is unable to feed her kittens, you will need to hand-feed them using a commercial kitten milk replacer. This is available at pet stores and veterinary clinics. Do not use cow's milk as it does not provide the necessary nutrients for kittens and can cause digestive problems.
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Preparing the Formula: Follow the instructions on the milk replacer package to prepare the formula. Typically, you will need to mix the powder with warm water (around 98-100°F or 36-38°C) until it reaches a smooth consistency.
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Feeding Technique: Use a small syringe without the needle, a pet nursing bottle, or a spoon to feed the kittens. Hold each kitten upright and gently place the tip of the syringe or spoon into the side of their mouth. Squeeze the plunger slowly, allowing the kitten to swallow naturally.
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Feeding Schedule: Newborn kittens need to be fed every 2-3 hours, including during the night. This is essential for their survival and growth. Make sure you have a reliable timer or alarm to remind you of each feeding time.
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Stimulating Elimination: After each feeding, gently rub a warm, damp cloth over the kitten's genital area to stimulate urination and defecation. This is crucial as newborn kittens cannot eliminate on their own.
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Keeping Warm: Kittens are unable to regulate their body temperature and require external heat. Place them in a warm, draft-free environment, ideally under a heat lamp or on a heating pad set to low. Ensure they have access to a cooler area so they can move away if they get too hot.
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Monitoring Weight Gain: Kittens should gain weight steadily. Weigh them daily using a kitchen scale and record their progress. If you notice any weight loss, consult your vet immediately as this could indicate health issues.
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Introducing Solid Food: As the kittens grow older (usually around 4 weeks), begin introducing solid food in small amounts. Gradually increase the amount of solid food while decreasing the milk replacer until they are fully weaned at about 8-12 weeks.
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Seek Veterinary Advice: Throughout this process, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and ensure that both the mother cat and her kittens receive appropriate care.
By following these steps diligently, you can significantly improve the chances of survival for the kittens while ensuring their proper growth and development.