I’m fostering three kittens without a mother from a shelter; they’re about 4 weeks old. There was always one kitten who didn’t drink very well, but it got a lot better until 3 days ago. She doesn’t drink milk at all; I tried force-feeding her, but she literally spits it out. Then I tried a kitten mousse; she eats this if I’m force-feeding her. On top of this, she often tries to poop without any results (I help her stimulate, but no success…) and a few minutes ago she also threw up. She also doesn’t really play, but still seems alert and walks around. She’s not losing weight yet, which I find crazy because she’s barely eaten anything in the last few days.
The shelter says I can’t do much for her, and I don’t trust the vet there today as he tends to put animals down easily…
Paxton said:
Then if you have the money, take the kitten to a vet and have the shelter reimburse you. This baby needs to be seen by a vet today.
Definitely this. There are vets who will work with you on budget, especially as you’re fostering. It’s important that she gets checked out ASAP—they can go downhill very quickly.
Wishing you the best with her, OP. Thank you for caring. Please let us know how it goes.
Take it to another vet ASAP. Don’t keep forcing it to eat if it can’t evacuate. She’s likely refusing to eat because she doesn’t feel well and may be having belly pain.