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Question
I had one adult female and 2 adult male cats. About 5 weeks ago, I adopted a stray, pregnant, all white female. My youngest male, Casper (all white) has seemed fascinated by her.8 days ago, she had 6 healthy kittens. Suddenly, today, Casper has become obsessed with the kittens. He is licking their bottoms, and sometimes seems to be biting them around their necks, however, they don't seem to mind. Neither does their mother, Pearl. Now Casper is laying in their 'nest' with Pearl and the kittens, but we are worried that he may hurt them. Should we leave them alone, or separate them?
Hi Elaine,
Is Casper fixed? I'm asking this because sometimes unfixed males will try to hurt the kittens so the female will go into heat again and he can mate with her. If he is fixed then just keep an eye on him. He may just be doing the good uncle behavior and helping the mom. I have a male like that. When I bring a stray kitten in he takes care of them. He cleans them,plays with them and punishes them. He's sorta like a surrogate mom. Your Casper may be just like that. As long as the mom isn't worried then I wouldn't be. 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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