Caring for premature kittens

Prematurity refers to the birth of viable but underdeveloped fetuses before the end of the maternal pregnancy. It may be caused by external stimuli, sudden changes in environment, unfamiliar people or pets entering the household, or loud noises. However, with proper care, premature kittens can survive well.

Causes of Prematurity

• fright or stimulation: Cats may experience premature birth and miscarriage during the pre-delivery period and early pregnancy due to stimulation and fright.
• drug effects: Some cats may require treatment for certain diseases during pregnancy, and drug effects may lead to premature birth.
• infectious diseases: Cats may experience miscarriage and premature birth due to infections such as toxoplasmosis and brucellosis.

Survival rate of premature kittens

Cats born prematurely have a 60% survival rate. However, some premature kittens are physically fragile, and owners need to pay special attention to keeping them warm and providing sufficient nutrients to improve their immunity. If a cat's ability to nurse is weak, owners should help them suckle to promote growth and development and enhance resistance.

What to do if a cat is premature

• Immediately remove the mucus from the mouth and nose of the animal after birth and pay attention to warmth preservation, avoiding stress.
• The gastrointestinal secretions and digestive functions of newly born young animals are not yet fully developed, but their metabolism is particularly vigorous, requiring a large amount of food. Artificial nursing should be provided after birth to help them find the nipple and suckle colostrum, increasing their resistance and stimulating the intestinal tract to promote the excretion of meconium. If the mother refuses to nurse or has no milk, a mother cat with a similar delivery period should be found for foster care. If the kitten cannot get enough colostrum, artificial nursing is necessary, and the feeding should follow the three-fixed principles of regular time, quantitative, and constant temperature.