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My 6-week-old kitten is lethargic, won't eat. Can I give Karo syrup?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | 1lb

Orphaned kitten feral. Approx. 6 weeks old. Fine for 2 weeks now lethargic. Won't eat or drink. Sleeps . Won't lift head, can't stand. Syringe with water. Vet gave and shot today and worm medicine. I'm afraid we will lose her tonight. Can I give an. Amt karo syrup? Was eating kitten chow and canned. Sister ok so far.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 19th, 2017

Honey or karo syrup can be placed on the gums every 30 minutes to prevent hypoglycemia, but you have to be careful not to use too much if she has trouble swallowing as it can go down into the lungs and cause aspiration pneumonia. If she is not doing better in a few hours, though, I would recommend taking her to an emergency vet. Small kittens can get dehydrated very quickly, and it appears that she is very sick.

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2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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