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- Abandoned kittens?
Cats/Abandoned kittens?
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Question
A stray cat has given birth to 4 kittens in a cupboard inside our house. We put them in our yard so that the mother would take them away. The first night it took away 2 of its kittens leaving the other 2 behind. We have seen the cat around the house but never saw it near its kittens. We tried to feed milk to the kittens but they wont take any. Its been 4 days and the kittens are still alive. So, it must mean that the mother cat is feeding them when we are not watching. My question is, why would the mother cat keep its kittens separately in 2 places? Why isn't she taking these two to the place where it kept the other 2 kittens? The kittens are crying a lot. I am allergic and I don't know much about pets. So I cant help them much. But I'm afraid they might die. Is there a possibility that the mother will take them with her later or should I give away the kittens to someone who can take care of them?
Hi Afsara,
Sorry it took so long for me to get back to you. She could have the litters split so that if a predator comes by it will only get half of her kits. Basically it is for survival. Here is a really good link about raising abandoned kits.
http://www.feralcat.com/raising.html
If you feel she has abandoned them then give them to someone who will take care of them.
Hopefully momcat has brought her kits together and all is well. Good luck and take care.
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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