Handling week old kittens?

Question

I handled my kittens when they were a few days old...just picked one up for a bit and put it back. I touched them though when they were a couple days old (didn't pick them up). The mother cat doesn't seem to feed these kittens (which are now 1 week and 2 days old) very often and they meow like crazy when she comes into the nest. Did I do something to destroy the natural instinct?

Answer 1

Well the thing I hear is that if the mama cat is yours and has been yours, then you touching her kittens should be fine since she knows you and trusts you. If she's not feeding them, you probably have to get a bottle and KMR.  

Answer 2

no

Answer 3

no, but you really shouldn't handle newborns with bare hands until they are older than  2-3 weeks old.  It's hard to resist the urge, but for those reading this that have pregnant cats - resist.  Give it a day or so, if the mother cat doesn't start to feed them, then you will have to take over.  Call the vet, and get a check up on the kittens and mother to rule out any health issues.  If the kittens need hand fed, they will be able to help you with the supplies and formula.  Do NOT give the mother or kittens pasteurized milk - they can not digest it, and will give the kittens and cat a whole new problem.  No matter what, make sure you get the kittens and mom checked....and get mom spayed as soon as you are able.

Answer 4

Dont Think Soo x  

Answer 5

I have had cats for years, and I always pick them up. I mean, like as soon as they are born and cleaned up, I take them in the house and hold them for a half hour or so. My cats have never treated the kittens differently. Be sure you pet the mother cat and let her get used to your scent. If your cat doesn't feed her kittens and they begin to loose weight, call your vet and talk to him or her about it.

Answer 6

no. but you shouldnt handle kittens that are not old enough to walk, except in an emergency.

all it does is stress mom. she dose not want anyone near her babies.

kittens screaming when mom walks in is normal. they are very easy to wake up and once awake they scream "FEED ME!"

if they scream when mom is not around and she does not run in to check on them, or if they scream when mom is there and nursing does not shut them up, you have a problem.