Fading Kitten Syndrome is what is used to describe the situation when a kitten dies aged under 12 weeks old. These kittens often fail to thrive and to grow and develop as they should. FKS is similar to SIDs in humans and can be referred to a “mystery illness” when often the exact cause of death is unknown. Most often kittens affected by Fading Kitten Syndrome are born into an unhealthy environment or to a sickly, weak mother cat.

To reduce the chances of Fading Kitten Syndrome, it is a good idea to look after the pregnant mother especially well. She needs to eat a diet suitable for her pregnant status and be as healthy as possible. Obesity in a mother cat can cause problems for her kittens, it is best not to intentionally breed an obese cat.

Birth defects can be one of the easiest warning signs to detect. Unfortunately they are also the hardest to treat and most kittens with severe birth defects will die. During extended labor a kitten could get stuck and be suffer injuries. A healthy mother cat can give birth by herself, but it is always wise to keep an eye on her. Sometimes she will need your assistance, or she may try to cannibalize her kittens so you need to make sure the kittens are safe and healthy.

Problems may arise even after a successful birth. A rare situation in which the blood type of one or more kittens differs from that of the mother can result in death. The condition affects pure-bred cats more often than mixed breeds. There is no known cure. A more frequent occurrence is that one kitten will be crowded out by his litter mates and will not be able to nurse enough to get adequate nutrition. If the mother cat rejects the litter and refuses to nurse the kittens, it is up to the owner to hand-rear the kittens.

Not all causes of Fading Kitten Syndrome are related specifically to pregnancy and birth. Environmental causes also play a part. Newborn kittens cannot keep themselves warm and rely on their mother to stay warm. Hypothermia, dehydration, and environmental diseases related to parasites, bacteria, and viruses are likely to cause FKS.

It is possible to be cautious about FKS, but it is not always possible to reverse its effects. Giving the mother cat a healthy and nutritious diet during pregnancy and weaning will help keep the kittens healthy. Also provide a safe clean place for the birth will help also. Keep an eye on the development of the kittens for any signs of slow growth or paternal neglect on the part of the mother cat.

Being armed with this knowledge about FKS you will be better equipped to handle preventing it and treating it. The earlier Fading Kitten Syndrome is detected the greater chances for survival. Watch the factors during pregnancy, through the birth and right up to weaning when FKS is most likely to strike.

Learn more about fading kitten syndrome. Stop by Sam Kelley’s site where you can claim your copy of Taking Care of Kittens for FREE!

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