Hello, my one year old tabby cat is due to have kittens this week. We're all excited and prepared except Mom. She hasn't groomed in over a week. She has toothpaste stuck in her tail, she smells, and dirt and debris fall out of her coat when I pet her. I've heard that queens usually clean themselves compulsively at this stage of their term, and she's always been a "neat freak". The only reason I can see for her lack of care lately is that she is quite large and it may be too uncomfortable. I'd do it for her, but I'm very concerned about stressing her out at this time. At this point she's keeping to herself alot, and I'm the only one she'll have any contact with. I also don't know the first thing to use. It would have to be non toxic and very mild... I know that they make foaming cleaners so water isn't even involved but I'm thinking those probably have alot of chemicals that wouldn't be good for the babies.
Or should I just let her be at this point and let her take care of it after the kittens arrive?
I'd sure appreciate any advice! This is the first litter for her and for us.
Thanks!
Destany
