I have an underweight kitten, help?

Question

I have 4 kittens and they are 3 1/2 weeks old and all of them weigh 1 pound except for one of them. He weighs only 9 1/2 ounces. I weighed him last Tuesday and his weight hasn't changed. He is the runt of the litter, so when it is feeding time all of the other kittens easily find a nipple and he is pushed out of the way. I want to put him in a separate room alone with his mom so he can eat, but I am afraid that she will freak out. What do i do?


Please and thank you!

? · Accepted Answer

When I have a little runt like that and at that age, I would take the other kittens away from mamma and leave the runt with mamma for about an hour several times a day.
At 3 1/2 weeks, the little kittens can wobble around and explore new areas with your supervision and let the runt have a chance with mom.
9.5 oz isn't that bad but I don't know the birth weight.  But if he hasn't gained any weight for a week he needs help.  You might have to give suppliment feedings with KMR and a syringe or bottle, but try giving him some alone time with mamma.  If the kitten doesn't gain any weight in the next day or two, get him to a vet.

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Anonymous · Answer

I agree.   Take the other kittens out to play and explore while the runt is left with Mother cat for an
hour or so.  Do this several times a day.
For the other kittens, you can begin giving them some regular kitten chow food softened with water.
Let it sit out for them while they are away from Mother cat and the runt is with her.  
Buy kitten replacement milk and a little bottle.  You can supplement the runt by bottle feeding him.
He will soon catch up to his siblings with a little time and attention.

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I have an underweight kitten, help?

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