Expert: Jessica - 10/30/2010

Question
My cat had four kittens six days ago. Two of them were still births.

Today I checked on the kittens and noticed that the eyes on one of the babies were starting to crack open.  I've heard it sneeze twice.  It's fur is falling out at an alarming rate.  

We have fleas, mom was treated with Advantage before birth.  I'm scared for the baby.  Whats with the hair loss?

Answer
Hi Nonny,

The fur loss could be due to fleas, but this can be a sign of systemic infection in kittens.  The little one should really be seen by a vet in order to determine the cause of the fur loss.  If it seems to be related to the fleas, bathing will probably be recommended until the babies are old enough to be treated with Capstar or Advantage.  However, when fleas are a real problem, the vet may advise using Advantage on younger kittens at a very reduced dose, due to a high risk of flea-induced anemia.  If the fur loss appears to be related to a systemic infection, oral antibiotics will be required.  Other causes of fur loss could also include fungal infections like ringworm, or the mother's overgrooming of the baby, or rarely, mange.  The vet should be able to determine the most likely cause of the symptoms and best treatment plan.

A sneeze here and there is seen in most kittens, as they are sensitive to everything in their new environments.  Dust and allergens can easily irritate their noses.  But if the sneezing becomes frequent or you notice any nasal stuffiness or eye/nasal discharge, this also indicates and infection and needs to be addressed right away.

Good luck!

Jessica