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Question:

One of the office cats gave birth to a litter of almost all dead kitten and refused to feed the rest. Now the last one died and she is panicking.

I'm feeling really distraught right now and could use some advice from anyone who's been in a similar situation. One of the office cats, who we all adore, recently gave birth to a litter, but tragically, most of the kittens were stillborn. She refused to even look at the remaining kitten, let alone feed it, and we tried everything we could—bottle feeding, keeping it warm, ensuring it felt loved—but despite our efforts, the last little one passed away this morning. Now she seems absolutely frantic, trying to search for her kittens everywhere and making these heartbreaking cries. It's so painful to watch, and I feel absolutely helpless. Has anyone gone through this before, and is there anything I can do to comfort her or help her through this? It's tearing us all apart seeing her like this. Any suggestions would be deeply appreciated.

Answer:

I'm sorry to hear about the difficult situation with your office cat and her kittens. It's understandably distressing for both you and the mother cat. There are several reasons why a cat might have a litter with deceased kittens. It could be due to underlying health issues in the mother, genetic factors, stress during pregnancy, or environmental factors like exposure to toxins.

If she's refusing to nurse, it might be because her maternal instincts haven't fully developed, or she may sense something wrong with the kittens health wise. Cats can sometimes be in shock after losing their young, which may explain her current behavior.

For now, try to ensure she feels comfortable and safe. Provide her a quiet and warm space with food and water nearby. Keep an eye on her for any signs of distress or illness like heavy breathing, not eating, vomiting, or disinterest in surroundings. These can indicate she's unwell and might need medical attention.

If you notice any of these signs or her condition doesn't improve, it's crucial to speak with a veterinarian for further advice. Consider booking a video consult with Dial A Vet to discuss her situation and explore the next steps to help her recover physically and emotionally.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 18, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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