Why is My Cat Behaving Strangely and Ignoring Her Kittens?

Dear VetBabble, My Cat is Acting Odd and Not Paying Attention to Her Kittens: What Should I Do?

We sometimes get queries from worried pet owners, like this one: “My cat is acting odd, not looking after her babies, not eating or drinking, just lounges around and has vomited once. Should I call the vet? And if the kittens are quite young, should I leave them at home or take them along with the mother to the vet in a cozy box?”

Understanding The Problem

An apparent change in your cat’s behaviour, especially if accompanied by symptoms like vomiting, can be distressing. As a responsible pet owner, it’s understandable that you’re worried. First, it’s important to monitor closely for vomiting because it can be a sign of various health problems. Frequent or continuous vomiting requires immediate veterinarian intervention.

Also, new mother cats, also known as queens, often undergo behavioural changes, but noticeably ignoring their newborns can be a cause for concern. It’s crucial for queens to nurse and care for their kittens properly during the early days. Any seeming neglect from the mother can put the kittens at risk.

Reach Out for Professional Help

If your cat persistently acts out of character, refuses food or drink, and has thrown up, it’s time to seek professional help. Definitely, you should call the vet as soon as possible and schedule an appointment to get your furry friend checked out. Your veterinarian will be able to investigate if there are any underlying health issues causing these potential problems. Throughout your pet’s life, regular vet checks are highly recommended for preventive care and early detection of health issues.

Should You Leave Kittens at Home?

This can be a challenging decision. The age of the kittens and their reliance on their mother plays a key role here. In the case of very young, orphaned kittens that still depend on their mother for warmth, food, and protection, you might need to take the kittens along. Speak with your vet, provide them with all the necessary details, and then work together to make the best decision for both the mother and her kittens.

In conclusion, any abrupt change in your cat’s behaviour should not be ignored. Pay close attention, try to identify any possible triggers, and always be prepared to seek professional help. Remember, the health and wellbeing of your pets is our top priority too. Stay alert, act swiftly and provide the care your pets deserve.

The post Why is My Cat Behaving Strangely and Ignoring Her Kittens? appeared first on VetBabble.