What to do if the mother threw out the kittens? - briefly
If the mother cat has thrown out her kittens, it is crucial to act quickly and carefully to ensure their survival. Place the kittens in a warm, safe environment and provide them with a suitable substitute for maternal care, such as a heating pad wrapped in a towel or a warm water bottle, until they can be reunited with their mother or taken to a professional for further assistance.
What to do if the mother threw out the kittens? - in detail
If you find that a mother cat has abandoned her kittens, it is crucial to act swiftly and appropriately to ensure their survival. Here are the steps you should take:
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Assess the Situation: Ensure that the kittens have indeed been abandoned. Mother cats often leave their kittens for short periods while they hunt or explore. If the kittens are clean, warm, and do not appear distressed, the mother may return soon. However, if the kittens are cold, dirty, or meowing excessively, intervention is necessary.
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Warmth: Newborn kittens cannot regulate their body temperature. Place them on a heating pad set to low or wrap them in a towel that has been warmed in the dryer. Ensure they are not too hot by touching their skin; it should feel warm but not hot.
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Feeding: Kittens require specialized milk replacer formulated for kittens, such as KMR (Kitten Milk Replacer). Human baby formula or cow's milk can cause diarrhea and other health issues in kittens. Feed them using a small syringe without the needle, slowly dripping the formula into their mouths every 2-3 hours.
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Hydration: Dehydration is a significant risk for newborn kittens. Ensure they receive enough fluids by mixing Pedialyte or an electrolyte solution with the milk replacer. Follow the instructions on the package for proper dilution.
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Stimulation: Mother cats stimulate their kittens to urinate and defecate after each feeding. You can do this using a warm, damp cotton ball or tissue, gently rubbing their genital area. This is crucial for their health and hygiene.
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Socialization: While caring for the kittens, handle them gently but frequently to ensure they become socialized. This will make it easier for them to adapt to a new home once they are old enough to be adopted.
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Veterinary Care: As soon as possible, take the kittens to a veterinarian. They can provide professional care, including vaccinations, deworming, and monitoring their growth and development.
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Finding a Home: Once the kittens are weaned (usually around 4-6 weeks), find them loving homes. You can contact local shelters or rescue organizations for assistance in this process.
By following these steps, you can significantly increase the chances of survival and well-being for abandoned kittens.