by Ricki
(USA)

I have a newborn kitten that is only two days old. I understand that newborns are not able to defecate on their own, but my newborn kitten is and I don't know why. Could it be that I am over feeding my kitten?


Dear Ricki,

If the food you are feeding is liquid enough, your kitten may be leaking stool. However, newborn kitten stool is usually very loose, and even newborn kittens that are overfed are still unable to defecate on their own. My concern would be that there is something wrong with your kitten’s anal sphincter, and that the kitten may not have proper anal tone. This could be a sign of a serious condition and requires veterinary attention, so I would strongly recommend bringing your kitten to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Best wishes,
Dr. Neely