Expert: Marcia Owen - 10/13/2008

Question
my cat has just had her third litter and the kittens are 5 days old and my cat has been really ill since she had them and everytime she gets up she has diearea everywhere and the last 2 days she has not been feeding the kittens what can i do im really worried about her and i cant take her to the vets i have no insurance so i cant afford it please help

Answer
Dear Nicci

I'm afraid that your cat really needs medical attention and I would suggest that you look up the animal charity in your area who will no doubt help to treat your girl.  In the UK we have such charities who will pay for treatment for animals whose owners cannot afford to pay a vet.  You need to do this sooner rather than later as she will only get worse.

As to the kittens, you need to get some kitten milk and you will need to bottle/syringe feed them every 2 hours night and day to ensure they survive.  You will also need to attend to their rear end by making sure they toilet, and to do this damp some cotton wool and gently stroke where they would wee and poo until they do their business.  You need to do this every time they have been fed.

I do hope your girl will recover but please don't delay in taking some action.

Marcia.