Expert: Jessica - 9/29/2009

Question
I ask a question earier i think i know now, she didnt lik ethem being near her, and wouldnt let them suckle. When they played she would his at them and claw them, i guess the 5 days have been to long an dsh ehas forgot them or rejected them, as she was fine letting the other two suckle her and jump on her back at parents where they havent been se[perated, she did tolterate others but guess thats it once tehre seperate dthat is that, as she was so different with other two kittens back at parents. does it happen quickly maybe sh egot used to them being gone i guess, thanks

Answer
Hi Steven.  Moms do find their kittens strange to them if they've been separated for a while, and hissing is commonly seen.  Generally, though, they will take them back quite quickly, within a day or two.  If the kittens are still completely dependent on milk for nourishment, you should bottle feed them while you try to reintroduce them, until she allows them to suckle.

However, if she is scratching at them, you want to use extreme caution.  I have seen the most aggressive mothers, scratching and biting, turn sweet and accept their babies overnight.  So there is still hope.  But the kittens need to be protected.  Better to allow her to get used to their presence once again as they sit in a carrier before allowing them within swatting range.

Good luck!
Jessica