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Nursing cat won't eat. Are kittens okay? How to get her to eat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 9 months old | 10 lbs

I am currently fostering a mother and her 3 kittens (3 weeks). We have had them for 2 day and on day 1 the mother ate and drank a significant amount, however, today she has not eaten anything or drank anything (despite multiple types of food being offered. Will the kittens still be getting the nutrients they need through nursing and how to we encourage the mother to eat?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on April 1st, 2017

The kittens' nutritional needs are not likely to be compromised since Coby did not eat or drink much today. However, I would become concerned if this situation continues. Offer Coby kitten foods - canned or dry foods, but try not to offer more than 2 options at a time, as this can be overwhelming. With some of the canned foods, try to warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds to tempt her to eat. Some cats are social eaters and like being pet and kept company while eating. Others are very independent and prefer to be completely alone while eating. Try to determine which Coby prefers. If she is still completely unwilling to eat by tomorrow, she should be evaluated by her vet. Should you need to take her to the vet, be sure to take her kittens too.

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