Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Adult female cat rescue over 45 days ago with kittens. Very underweight with ravenous appetite, may have eaten snake fecal matter from garbage bag. She's not gaining her weight back and is not nursing kittens anymore. If a CBC blood test is done must I ask for something else to look for snake salmonella or any reptile parasite? Snake is a harmless adult corn, captive born and raised.

Mike

Hi Mike,

Since this cat is a rescue I would also have a full blood panel done as well as a fecal flotation test. It would also be a good idea to have this cat tested for FeLV/FIV while you are at it. You probably have no idea about the medical history of this cat.

I wouldn't worry too much about the possibility of the cat ingesting reptile feces. If she has any internal parasites at all, they should show up on a standard fecal test and she will be treated. If she lived outdoors for any length of time, she very likely has some kind of parasite.......especially if she killed and ate her own food.

Take Care,
PHKitkat

She tested neg. for felv/fiv, and worms, parasites have also been taken care of. Full blood panel is next. Maybe this will tell me why's she's eating like a horse and not gaining weight. Her kittens are all taking solid foods, and one or two still nurse occasionally. I suspect salmonella but maybe the blood test will show something. Can the kittens be innoculated in the next few days (nasal) or should I wait longer? Momma cat needs it also but must wait till she stops nursing altogether. Using 3 in 1 vaccine.

Thanks.

Hi Again,

Usually with salmonella you would see diarrhea and possibly vomiting, but there are always exceptions to the rule. It's good to hear that this kitty has been tested and dewormed already. You are taking very good care of her.

How old are the kittens? Vaccines are usually started at about 8 weeks of age.

Please update us after your vet appointment..........I'm very interested in what he or she has to say.

Regards,
PHKitkat

I would guess kittens are 9 weeks. They're running around, jumping like rabbits. Mothers vet visit 2nd week of august. Vet didn't say much of anything, which is why I'm seeing a different vet in about a week.
Will post with updates.

Mike

Hi Mike,

Sounds like the kittens are ready for their first round of vaccines! I bet they are adorable

Take Care,
PHKitkat