Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am so happy to have found this forum today... also today my Luna gave birth to just one kitten, I named her Felicitas on the elevator on the way to the clinic, because I thought giving her a name would encourage her to make it.. But I think it is hopeless... and tears flow from my eyes already because the little thing is so sweet and her mother and father seem to like her so much (they are truly very close those two).

I really do not know if I should go through the motions... I will tube feed her, which is the best system so they don't choke and resist... every three hours, the mother has milk, but it does not come down and the baby has been trying to feed since she was born but does not find milk, or does not find the nipple.. i don't know, i tried countless times to put her at the nipple and it does not work... (because they are dry?). The mum is happy and relaxed and the delivery went very well... But the little one probably won't make it! I have a kitty with Asthma, you see... and a baby that does not receive any calostrum, no immunological protection from her mum... what realistic chances does she have?

Plus.. I am new to the country, I came on the 28th of March, and in a few days I will start working.. and then.. how am I going to feed this kitty every three hours? I have my children here, that go to the University and cannot help me (except taking over some in the night). Other that that, I know no one yet.

I really don't know what I will do... I am so far going through the motions but I also keep asking myself.. what for? She is not going to make it... I could as well euthanize her right now...

She is a lovely Oriental Short Hair tortie girl...
Thank you for listening people. And I appreciate your support.

Maria (formerly from Vienna, Austria, now from Toronto!)

Hi Maria,

I am also glad that you found us, even though the circumstances aren't the best.

My opinion is that this kitten deserves a chance and you are doing the right thing by tube feeding her. I would try coaxing her to nurse from her mother tomorrow, occasionally it can take awhile for the milk to come down. Also, if there is milk and you very gently sqeeze a small amount of milk from a nipple, the kitten may pick up the scent and get the idea.

Perhaps once you have to go to work, your vet or a technician at the hospital would be willing to take over the daily feedings. Or maybe you can even hire an experienced person to come to your home and do it.

Please don't give up. I have known many kittens hand raised from birth that have done very well. It's hard work, but well worth it.

I know how difficult it is for you right now. Every pet is special and it takes no time to fall in love with them. It's especially hard to think that you may lose a newborn baby. I have successfully helped raise several in my job as a vet tech, but I have also experienced the heartbreak of losing one of these very special babies.

Please take care and keep us updated. You and the precious baby will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Regards,
PHKitkat