What to do if a kitten won't drink milk from its mother? - briefly
If a kitten refuses to drink milk from its mother, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian promptly. In the meantime, you can try offering the kitten warm, diluted cow's milk or kitten formula using a small syringe or bottle, ensuring the kitten is kept warm and hydrated until professional advice is obtained.
What to do if a kitten won't drink milk from its mother? - in detail
If a kitten refuses to drink milk from its mother, it can be a cause for concern, especially in the first few weeks of life when their nutritional needs are critical. Here’s what you should do:
Firstly, assess the situation. Ensure that the mother cat is producing enough milk and is healthy. If the mother appears lethargic or unwell, she might not be able to produce sufficient milk for her kittens. Additionally, check if there are any issues with the mother’s teats, such as blocked or infected nipples, which could make nursing difficult for the kitten.
If the mother cat is healthy and producing milk, the issue may lie with the kitten. Newborn kittens often have difficulty latching on to their mother's teats initially. In this case, you can help by gently massaging the mother’s teats to stimulate milk flow, making it easier for the kitten to nurse.
If the kitten is still not drinking, consider whether there are any underlying health issues. Kittens that are weak or ill may lack the strength or appetite to nurse properly. Signs of illness include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and rapid breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately as the kitten may require professional care.
In cases where the kitten is not nursing due to illness or weakness, your vet might recommend supplemental feeding. This can be done using a syringe without the needle, filled with a suitable kitten milk replacement formula. Ensure that you warm the milk to body temperature (around 98-100°F or 36.7-37.8°C) before feeding to mimic the mother’s natural warmth.
Feeding the kitten should be done gently and slowly, allowing it to swallow without inhaling the milk into its lungs. Hold the kitten upright while feeding, and be patient as this process can take time. After each feed, stimulate the kitten's genital area with a warm, damp cloth to encourage urination and defecation, which helps maintain hydration and prevents constipation.
Regularly monitor the kitten’s weight to ensure it is gaining properly. If there is no improvement or if the kitten continues to lose weight, consult your veterinarian for further advice and possible treatment.
In summary, addressing a kitten's refusal to nurse involves evaluating both the mother's health and milk production as well as the kitten’s condition. If necessary, supplemental feeding with a suitable formula can be implemented under veterinary guidance. Close monitoring of the kitten’s weight and overall health is essential for ensuring its survival and growth.