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Question
Our cat had 2 kittens last year. We decided to keep these kittens and had their mother spayed. before we could spay her kittens, however, they each had a litter. The first one's litter is 5 weeks old now, the other litter was just born a few days ago. The other day we were showing the kittens to a prospective new family. Suddenly I noticed that one of the kittens was missing. After searching for several minutes, I remembered seeing the other mother with the kittens, cleaning them as if she were the mother. So I decided to go look where the newer kittens were (mom decided to have them under our house of all places!) We found her there with the litter of newborns. I have never heard of a mother cat moving another cat's kittens like this. Would this be because their scents may be similar since the mothers are sisters? We don't know who the father is as we have several male cats roaming the neighborhood. It could be the same one as far as we know. I just thought it was strange that she would move one that wasn't hers and just put it with her babies that don't evenhave their eyes open yet!
Hi Dana,
Some moms have a very high maternal instinct. They will take care of anyone's offspring. You've seen the pictures of a dog nursing a cat. It sounds like your female may just be one like that. She likes taking care of kittens. And those kittens are lucky to have two moms. Good luck with your new arrivals.
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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