Learning Cat

Barn Cat Rescue: Caring for a Nursing Momma Cat and Her Kittens

by · July 29, 2024

You found a momma cat and her kittens abandoned at your barn. It’s a heartwarming, albeit overwhelming situation! You want to do right by this little feline family. Let’s tackle your concerns about the momma cat’s health, flea control, and when those adorable kittens need their first vet visit.

Why Won’t Momma Cat Gain Weight?

It breaks your heart to see the momma cat so thin, especially when she’s gobbling down food. Here’s the thing about nursing moms:

  • High demand: Producing milk for a litter of kittens takes a massive toll on her body. Think marathon-level energy expenditure!
  • Not enough calories: Even if she’s eating well, she might not consume enough calories to regain weight while nursing.

What can you do?

  • High-calorie food: Offer her kitten food! It’s specially formulated to meet the needs of growing kittens and nursing mothers.
  • Free feeding: Let her eat as much as she wants, whenever she wants.
  • Wet food: Wet food is easier to digest and provides much-needed hydration.

Safe Flea Treatment for Kittens and a Nursing Mom

Fleas are a nightmare, especially for vulnerable kittens and a nursing mom. Here’s the safest approach:

  • Skip the bath: Bathing kittens this young can be risky, leading to chills and hypothermia. For momma cat, a bath is extra stressful while she’s caring for her babies.
  • Gentle combing: Use a fine-toothed flea comb to physically remove fleas and flea dirt.
  • Vet-approved treatments: Consult your vet for safe flea preventatives for the kittens and nursing mom. Never use over-the-counter flea treatments without your vet’s okay! Many contain harmful chemicals that can be toxic to kittens and pass through momma cat’s milk.

Deworming Kittens and Momma Cat

It’s common for kittens to have roundworms, passed on from their mother.

Important! I strongly advise against giving over-the-counter dewormers without your vet’s guidance. The wrong dosage can be dangerous, especially for tiny kittens.

  • Vet visit: Schedule a vet appointment for momma cat and kittens as soon as possible. The vet can:
    • Assess their overall health
    • Provide safe and effective deworming medication
    • Recommend a flea preventative plan

When Can Kittens Visit the Vet?

The general rule of thumb is to take kittens for their first vet visit at around 6-8 weeks old. At this age, they’ll be ready for:

  • First vaccinations: These protect against common and potentially serious feline diseases.
  • Deworming: To eliminate any pesky intestinal parasites.
  • Microchipping: A must for all cats, ensuring they can be returned if lost.

Caring for Your Feline Family: A Timeline

Let’s break down a simple care timeline:

Now:

  • High-calorie food: Provide momma cat with unlimited kitten food (wet and dry).
  • Fresh water: Always ensure a clean water source is available.
  • Safe, warm space: Make sure they have a cozy, draft-free nesting area.
  • Gentle handling: While it’s tempting to cuddle, minimize handling until the kittens are older to avoid stressing momma cat.
  • Flea combing: Regularly comb for fleas and flea dirt.

As Soon as Possible:

  • Vet visit: Call your vet to schedule an appointment for momma cat and kittens.
  • Discuss spaying/neutering: Talk to your vet about scheduling spay/neuter surgeries for momma cat and kittens once they are old enough (usually around 4-6 months).

6-8 Weeks:

  • Kitten vet visit: Time for their first vaccinations and check-up!
  • Start socializing: Gently handle the kittens to help them grow into confident, friendly cats.

8-12 Weeks (Depending on Vet Recommendation):

  • Rehoming: If you’re not keeping the kittens, start the search for loving forever homes.

The Costs of Caring for a Cat Family

Let’s be real, caring for a cat family comes with costs. Here’s a rough estimate:

  • Vet visit (exam, vaccines, deworming): $50 – $200 per cat
  • Spay/neuter surgery: $50 – $200 per cat (costs often lower at shelters/clinics)
  • Flea/tick preventative (monthly): $10- $20 per cat
  • High-quality cat food: $20 – $40 per month (for momma cat and kittens)

Remember: These are just estimates. Costs vary depending on your location and veterinarian.

Money-Saving Tips:

  • Check for low-cost clinics: Many areas have clinics offering reduced-cost services.
  • Ask about shelter programs: Local shelters might have programs to assist with spay/neuter or vet care.

You’ve Got This!

Finding a momma cat and kittens in need is a big responsibility, but you’re already taking the right steps by seeking information and providing care. Focus on giving momma cat the nutrition she needs, keeping the kittens safe and warm, and getting them all to the vet soon. You’re giving these felines a second chance at a happy, healthy life!

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