mummy cat doesn't eat

[maryam2020]

My cat gave birth to seven cute Persian kittens. two of them died a few days later. the other 5 are healthy and about 1 month old. it's been a few days that my cat doesn't eat well and she doesn't care about her kittens as before. her kittens are able to eat for themselves, but still need breast milk. Is the mummy cat sick? she used to be so greedy and she used to eat a lot of food. Now, she is quiet and doesn't eat :-(

[Justine Lee, D.V.M., DACVECC]

While we don't recommend separating the mom from the kittens until 8-9 weeks of age, they can be weaned at 4-5 weeks and should be offered dry food at all times. You can wean them onto food with Esbilac kitten milk replacer + canned food (like A/D from your vet). This will entice them to eat a "gruel." The mom definitely needs to be seen by a vet ASAP!

[Arnold L Goldman, D.V.M.]

Hi,

She may well be ill. She could have a uterine infection or mastitis, a breast infection. She may have a fever, and not want to eat because of it. Please see a veterinarian as soon as possible. Plant o wean the kittens soon, if she is not making milk. Be sure the kittens are actually getting food as they may nurse on dry breasts and fool you, while starving at the same time. If able weight them daily to note increases desired.

Sincerely,

Dr G