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Cats/kitten glop and tube feeding

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Expert: - 12/5/2009


Question
Hi,

Is kitten glop suitable for all ages of kittens, even one day old?
My cat is currently pregnant, so I am just asking few questions so that I can be prepared is something goes wrong.
What if one of the new borns was to weak to suckle or refuses to do so, is it ok to tube feed him?
which is more nutritional, kitten glop or cat milk (KMR)?

One last question, but I am not sure if you are able to answer this: How often a pregnant cat gains weight? My cat is in her 5th week and it has been 4 days and she only gained 1 pound.

thanks in advance

Answer
Hi Moe,

Yes you can feed kitty glop from one day old. The best scenario is to have the kittens nurse from the mom. Even if it is for a day the kitten gets some protection from the mom. Tube feeding is preferred if you have a weak kitten. You should have your vet show you how to do it. I believe both are about equal. But kitty glop is a little more natural than KMR. Her weight gain sounds about right for 5 weeks. Start feeding her kitten food. Use the same brand as you are feeding her now but make it the kitten formula. Mix it in her regular food and gradually increase the amount until she is eating all kitten food. She needs the extra nutrition kitten food will give her. Here's a good link about cat pregnancy. http://www.2ndchance.info/pregnantcatcare.htm

Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

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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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