Why is my outdoor cat rejecting one of her newborn kittens? Is it sick?

Question

My grandmother has an outdoor cat that just had kittens. We're not sure how many because she is keeping the kittens under the house. However there is one cat that she is rejecting and is separating from the others. Does this mean there is something wrong with this kitten?

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA · Accepted Answer

It is possible that the momma cat thinks there is something wrong with this kitten, that it doesn't smell right, or that she isn't a great momma cat. I would continue to watch and see if she will claim the kitten within 24 hours. If not, you may have to take away the kitten and bottle raise it. If you do, I would have the kitten examined by a vet for any possible congenital abnormalities that the momma cat may have picked up on. Here is an article for raising orphan kittens (if you need it!): http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A

Why is my outdoor cat rejecting one of her newborn kittens? Is it sick?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?

Bloody brown liquid from my cat. Is it pee or poop? Vet help?

My cat is chunky. What food and steps can I take to help him lose weight?

Cat sick and still has fleas after vinegar treatment. What now?

My kitten had ringworm. Vet says in blood, untreatable, no meds?

My cat has a weepy wound she keeps licking. Does it need stitches?

Share