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Question
My mama cat just gave birth about 3 weeks ago. She had a litter of 6, two of which were stillborn. It broke my heart. Just today she's taking one kitten and placing it under my bed. I take it out and put it back in the basket and she'll go into the basket, take out another kitten and place that one under the bed. She's also been whining and making cooing/purring noises ALL DAY! Help! I don't know what to do - is this normal behavior? Why, all of a sudden, is she feeling threatened? I'm worried that she's going to place a kitten somewhere where I can't find it...also, it's cold under the bed...please help as soon as possible.
Hi Tracey,
Something has made her feel that her kittens are threatened. It could be too many people looking at them, she could have seen another cat out the window, or it could be that the kits are of the age to start wandering. The best thing that I can suggest for you is to place the kits with the basket in a large box or cage. This way mom can feel secure about them. Or use a closet and close the door almost all the way leaving space enough for mom to get out.
Keep a close watch on her when you do this she still might try to move them. You could try and stay with her by the kits where they are now and just reassure her that nothing will happen to the kits. Talk gently to her and pet her. This will also work. Good luck.
Ciao, Karen
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Hi Karen, Thank you very much for the info!! Someone else replied that something's wrong with my mama cat or her kittens and I've been very worried! You put my mind at rest because it DOES seem the basket is getting way too tiny for all 5 of them since the kits are moving around, wanting to play, etc. I'll take your advice and thanks again! | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Karen Craft
Expertise
I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!
Experience
I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care.
Some thoughts to carry with you.
A Cat's 10 Commandments
My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.
Give me time to understand what you want of me.
Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.
Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you.
Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.
Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.
Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you.
If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong.
Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old.
On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so.
Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.
Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.
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