Is this normal? the kitten's are nearly 3 weeks old and constantly crying until they get picked up and cuddled, they are trying to get out of the drawer, and will stop crying if they are put on the floor so they can roam around. Pixie seems exhausted, and doesn't seem interested in her food and I'm worried.

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Made by smudge2009
Gloworm - Run free little man. 23.05.2011-06.09.2011

didn't want to read and run but I don't really have any experience of kittens as an adult only as a child. . .

I would say as long as the cat is drinking and has eaten something today then I would call the vet tomorrow morning first thing. . .if she isn't drinking and hasn't eaten at all today and is seeming lethargic and not her usual self then I would call the emergency vet. . .

are the kittens gaining weight as they should be? maybe they're just crying because their mum wont give them cuddles. . . I would just keep an eye on her tonight and make sure she is tending to them when needed :/

I'm sure someone with more experience will come along shortly

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Yeah they have been feeding but Pixie hasn't been lying down with them, she has been sitting up as they scramble around her trying to feed and have put on weight, I tried to give Pixie some white fish as she loves it and it took her ages to eat a small piece which she usually eats it pretty quickly. The kitten's are currently on the floor crying and going to my neice and Pixie is just sitting in the drawer, not even coming to me when I call her which is unusual, my hubby says that she has been fine though, just seems tired.

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Made by smudge2009
Gloworm - Run free little man. 23.05.2011-06.09.2011

How is her milk supply and have you checked her teats? Do they feel hot and look red? She could possibly be coming down with mastitis or some other infection.

Do the kittens stop crying whilst on the floor? I can't see them crying to be out at just 3weeks old, it's more likely they are hungry

I'd give your vet a call hun, tonight. Be sure to tell the vet everything and let her/him decide if she needs to go in tonight or not. If she has some sort of infection getting treatment tonight instead of waiting tomorrow could make all the difference.

Do you have some kitten milk in to top up if necessary? You might need it hun.

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Likewise I have no experience with kittens/breeding,is mums milk coming through ok,could the kittens be hungry.If mum is a bit "off colour" it may be a good idea to ring the vet for advice.The last thing you want is a sick mother.Try posting this in the breeding section ,there may be a better chance of getting the attention of the experienced breeders there.

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I would keep a good eye on her tonight, and get her to the vets in the morning, keep the kittens warm with mum, and make sure they are getting milk from mum (that she is feeding they),

Can you move mum and babies in to a box in a safe place? that might help.

but vet check is the best thing to do. mum and babies.

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A cat does not just inhabit a house, it gives it a soul

yeah I agree if they're not feeding properly and are having to try really hard to feed then they are most likely crying due to hunger. . .I would top them up if you have some kitten feed. . .

I would call an out of hour vet for some advice at least and if you don't have any milk for them the vet will be able to help you by either telling you where to get some despite the time or will be able to fetch you some/ get you to come pick some up from them.

I do think you need some help with this because the kittens can go down hill fast and if mummy cat isn't herself there must be something wrong

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The not eating is a bit of a concern and I would definitely pop her along to the vet tomorrow for a check. She may have an infection brewing for one thing in which case the sooner it's treated the better.

Hope she's soon.

the vet might even suggest topping them up with milk just to give mum a rest until the morning when you can take her to the vet. . . they can still use her for warmth but it might be a bit much for her to be feeding them too if she's not feeling well

it's a lot for her to cope with really . . .is she a first time mum as well?

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Sitting up to feed the kittens isn't that unusual but I would be concerned if she is showing very little interest in them and is off her food too. Are you checking the kittens' weights to make sure they are getting enough milk?
A trip to the vets to rule out anything serious would be a good idea.

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How we behave toward cats here below determines our status in heaven. - Robert A. Heinlein
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