My new mom cat isn't eating and leaving kittens alone. Is it normal?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 2 months old
menace had 6 kittens five days ago but she is leaving them for five hours at a time. she is not eating any food just drinking water. is this normal
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 8th, 2019
Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. If Menace is not eating, she needs to see a veterinarian asap. I recommend taking her and the kittens to be evaluated. She may not be producing enough milk which could lead to dehydration or malnutrition of the kittens. The vet can assess why Menace isn't eating and make recommendations if the kittens should be bottle raised or are ok to stay with their mom. Good luck, I hope she's better quickly.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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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.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on February 2nd, 2017
If she is acting completely normal otherwise and playful then I wouldn't be concerned just yet. She may be adjusting to her new surrounding or not interested in the food being offered to her. Try a high quality canned food such as Royal Canin canned food or Hills Science diet canned food just to name a few. If she doesn't eat by tomorrow and is acting ill, then it is a good time to worry somewhat and have her examined by your local vet to sort things out.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on January 29th, 2018
I am very sorry to hear that your kitten is not feeling well, and lost her appetite. There could be a range of issues causing this problem including gastrointestinal parasites or ingestion of a toxic, or stomach-upsetting substance. If she hasn't eaten in over 24 hours I would advise taking her to the veterinarian straight away of examination, diagnosis and treatment. If it has been less then 24 hours, attempt the following at home; Tempt her with a bland but appetizing diet of boiled boneless chicken breast Provide fluids in the form of low sodium chicken broth mixed with water. If she does not start to eat, begins to vomit or have diarrhea, or seems lethargic take her in to the vet. Best of luck, and please post any further questions you may have here on the forum. We at Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach are here to help!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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