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Cats/Adult cat, new kitten, much confusion!
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Question
I have had my Cat - Tirreh - for 3 years, I recently got a new kitten, about 3 months ago. Things were a bit tetchy at first, but now they got along just fine. The problem is, they are both females and the kitten has been suckling on Tirreh's teats quite a bit, and they are getting quite swollen. They are not related, Tirreh didn't give birth to the kitten is what I mean. Is this normal? The suckling and swollen teats? I'm sorry this wasn't worded better. Much love, Sexton.
Hi Sexton,
Suckling is not normal but some cats do it. The thing you have to worry about is the swelling. You need to try to get the kitten to stop this. Removing Tirreh from the kit is one way to do this. You can try a spray water bottle but be careful you don't get Tirreh. Or try a loud noise whenever the kit goes after her.
I don't suggest any sour apple treatments as Tirreh can ingest this too. Try using Bag Balm on Tirreh to help her swollen teats. This might also help keep the kit away too. 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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