Post Punk Kitchen Forum

She was in a large yard backing up to my son's soccer field. Calico Manx, crusty eyes, small kitty cry. Probably 5-6 weeks old. She was pacing the chain link fence, trying to reach us on the other side. I hopped the fence and picked her up. I searched up and down the park to see if there were others but she seemed to be all alone. So, we brought her home.

Her eyes are infected and she has obvious respiratory issues. Through a friend, who works with a cat rescue, I was able to get antibiotics and ointment for her eyes.

She's not eating much but I managed to get a small amount of kitten milk substitute in her.

Please think positive thoughts that she recovers her health and is able to have a long, happy life.

Also, if anyone has sick kitty care tips, I'd love to hear them!

<3

Good on you for taking her in! Has she seen a vet? Are you able to get her to one? Best wishes, wee kitto!

I will think good thoughts!

I know you said you got meds from a rescue, but has a vet seen her? Especially if she's sick, you'll want to have her tested for leukemia and FIV and have an exam done. And I would definitely take a stool sample to the vet to check for worms. I don't think I've seen a stray kitten that didn't have parasites of some kind! It's also good to weigh her every couple of days to make sure she is gaining. At 2 lbs (usually 8 weeks old) she can have her first distemper shot.

Making sure she stays hydrated is important, especially since they tend not to eat or drink as much when they are congested. If she takes the formula, I would offer it several times a day, along with canned food.

Good luck!

Aw, good thoughts for the poor little thing!

My little buddy who died a year ago at the age of 17 was rescued under similar circumstances; the ones with the roughest starts often become the best kitties. Best of luck to you both!

I am also going to say that if all possible you should have her checked by a vet.

You can try and syringe feed her to make sure she is getting enough fluids- but a baby that small really should be checked out- especially if she has and infection.


Good luck with her.

We found three kittens in the same condition, and after eye salve and antibiotics they roared to life.

One thing I use when dehydration is a problem is unflavored pedialyte

http://www.brighthub.com/pets/cats/articles/70031.aspx Hope this is helpful.

Thanks for the feedback! She was seen by the person who provides the medical care for the rescue's cats, but she also has an upcoming vet visit where she'll be screened for FIV and leukemia. She has 7 oz. to gain before being large enough to be spayed.

I tried a bottle but she wouldn't use it so I've been syringe-feeding her the kitten formula, a small amount frequently. Obviously, she has food and water available constantly. Fortunately, she has peed a couple times so I'm not as worried about dehydration. Either way, I used Pedialyte for my last fosters and will pick up more tomorrow.

Her cry has gotten stronger since yesterday and she's a bit livelier so I'm hopeful.

Pics!

I'm having camera issues but I'll post some when I'm able to upload again.

Awww, sending good vibes towards you and the kitty! Hope she feels better soon!

Good luck, Honor and baby cat!

Thanks, everyone! She is still congested today but her eyes are no longer crusted. She continues to refuse solids but is lapping at the formula when I syringe-feed her.

Good luck little kitty!

PS: I forgot to mention her short, crooked tail. It looks and feels like it has been broken and didn't heal straight.

Today she's a little purr machine and starts up as soon as I open the door to see her.

What you are doing is wonderful, Honor. I can't wait to see pictures.

So glad little kitty is getting better.

oh, yay for people like you! I'm glad to hear she's doing well...I can't wait for pics of the little sweetie

Stay strong, baby kitty!!

She ate solid (canned) food for the first time today!

YES! I love rescuing and rescue stories. You are doing an amazing thing and I have tears in my eyes!

Thank you for all of the encouragement! She is now eating a mix of wet & dry food, with a small bowl of formula on the side. Her little tummy is now round and her eyes are clear and no longer swollen. Her breathing is still congested, but she has a ton of energy and is very curious. We are hopefully getting a vet appt. tomorrow so wish her luck that the test results are in our favor.

Aww, yay! So glad the little kitty's doing well.

She tested negative for FIV and leukemia! Yay! The vet also said that she's closer to 5 or 6 weeks, younger than was previously estimated.