The milk of a mother cat can become toxic to her kittens due to breast infections such as mastitis. Commercial milk replacement may also be toxic if it has turned bad or has not been properly prepared. The signs of toxic milk syndrome can include diarrhea, excessive kitten volcalization, or a bloated stomach. Septicemia can also result from this syndrome.
Treatment of toxic milk syndrome involves removing the kittens from their mother. Immediate veterinary attention is required if the mother has an infection and the kittens shouldn’t nurse from her again until the vet gives his or her approval. Diarrhea and dehydration must be treated, and the kittens will have to be hand-fed. Antibiotics may also be administered by injection.
