What to do if a cat walks away from a newborn kitten?

What to do if a cat walks away from a newborn kitten? - briefly

If your cat abandons her newborn kittens, it's crucial to take immediate action to ensure their survival. Here are the steps you should follow:

  1. Check for Immediate Danger: Ensure that the kittens are not in any immediate danger, such as being too cold or placed near a hazardous area.

  2. Warmth: Kittens cannot regulate their body temperature and rely on their mother for warmth. Place them in a warm environment, ideally around 85-90°F (29-32°C). You can use a heating pad set on low or a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel.

  3. Feeding: Newborn kittens need to be fed every 2-3 hours. You can use a commercial kitten milk replacer or consult with a veterinarian for specific instructions. Feed them using a small syringe or an eyedropper, ensuring they swallow the formula without inhaling it.

  4. Stimulation: Kittens need help to eliminate waste until they are about 3-4 weeks old. Gently rub their genital area with a soft, damp cloth after each feeding to stimulate them.

  5. Veterinary Care: Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible for professional guidance and to ensure the kittens receive proper care. They can also advise on the best way to reintroduce the kittens to their mother if she is willing to accept them back.

What to do if a cat walks away from a newborn kitten? - in detail

If a cat walks away from a newborn kitten, immediate action is crucial to ensure the kitten's survival and well-being. Here are the detailed steps to take:

  1. Assess the Situation:

    • Check if the mother cat is exhibiting any signs of distress or illness that might explain her behavior.
    • Observe the kitten for any visible health issues such as weakness, lethargy, or difficulty breathing.

  2. Warmth and Comfort:

    • Newborn kittens cannot regulate their body temperature, so it is essential to keep them warm. Place the kitten in a box lined with soft towels or blankets. You can also use a heating pad set on low, ensuring that the kitten has access to both heated and unheated areas to prevent overheating.
    • Monitor the kitten's temperature. The ideal range for newborn kittens is between 94-97°F (34.4-36.1°C). Use a rectal thermometer for accurate readings.

  3. Feeding:

    • Kittens require frequent feedings, typically every two to three hours. If the mother cat is not present or refuses to nurse, you will need to bottle-feed the kitten with a specialized formula designed for newborn cats. Do not use cow's milk as it can cause stomach upset and diarrhea.
    • Ensure that the bottle and nipple are clean and sterilized before each feeding. Warm the formula to body temperature (around 98-100°F or 36.7-37.8°C) but not too hot, as it can scald the kitten's mouth.
    • Feed the kitten in a semi-upright position to prevent choking and aspirating formula into the lungs.

  4. Hygiene:

    • After each feeding, gently stimulate the kitten’s genital area with a warm, damp cloth to encourage urination and defecation. This is crucial as newborn kittens cannot go to the bathroom on their own.
    • Keep the kitten's bedding clean and dry to prevent infections. Change the towels or blankets regularly.

  5. Monitoring Health:

    • Watch for signs of dehydration, such as sunken eyes, lethargy, or a lack of tears when crying. If you suspect dehydration, consult a veterinarian immediately.
    • Check the kitten’s umbilical cord daily. It should dry out and fall off within a week or two. If it shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge), contact your vet.

  6. Veterinary Care:

    • Even if you are successfully caring for the kitten at home, it is important to schedule a veterinary check-up as soon as possible. A professional can provide a thorough examination and advice tailored to the kitten's specific needs.
    • Regular vaccinations and check-ups will be essential for the kitten’s long-term health.

  7. Reintroducing the Mother:

    • If possible, try to reunite the mother cat with her kitten. Place them in a quiet, comfortable area together. The mother may need time to adjust and accept the kitten again.
    • Observe their interactions closely. If the mother shows aggression or continues to reject the kitten, you may need to continue hand-rearing until a more suitable caregiver can be found.

By following these steps, you can provide the necessary care for a newborn kitten whose mother has walked away. Always remember that professional veterinary advice is invaluable in ensuring the best possible outcome for the kitten’s health and development.