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Question
My cat has had 3 litters. The first was 5 kittens and two died shortly after birth. The second was a deformed kitten with two faces, which passed away after 2 days. She gave birth to another kitten today but it's the only one. We have a home for it already when it's ready. Will it learn the same lessons if it doesn't have any younger cats to interact with? Our youngest is 8 months old. I don't want to give away a cat that will have biting issues. Also, is it possible that our mother could be unhealthy in some way? We've bred cats before and have never come across a deformation, 1-kitten litter, or death from an unknown source.
Hi Kelsey,
Sorry it took me so long to answer here- Christmas madness. The kitten should have no problem learning its lessons. One cat litters do fine. The only thing I would worry about it is keeping warm. You might want to place a heating pad under on side of the nesting box for the kitten to go on if it gets cold. Cold is the number one killer of kittens.
I definitely would worry about the Queen having defective genes. Is it the same Tom who is impregnating her? I would just get her neutered and be done with it. Good luck.
Ciao, Karen
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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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