Is this normal and what to do?
Maternal instinct
After the birth of kittens, the cat’s behavior seems overprotective: it constantly lies near the babies, licking them, warming them and controlling every movement. This is completely natural. The first days of kittens’ life are the most important, because they are not yet able to regulate their own body temperature, cannot go to the toilet by themselves and depend on their mother 100%. Licking keeps them clean, stimulates the kittens’ breathing and digestive system. Therefore, a cat’s caring behavior is a very appropriate response. It is worth worrying if the opposite is true – if the cat does not spend much time with the offspring.
Why she does not even go to eat and go to the toilet
In the first 2-3 days after delivery, the mommy can practically not leave the kittens. She is worried that the babies will freeze or sprawl, so even her own needs are put on the back burner. Often cats refuse to eat or eat very little, because their whole body is focused on lactation and guarding the offspring. Also, in the first hours after giving birth, the cat may eat the litter, and this gives her nutrients, so she does not feel hungry right away. It is important to understand: this is normal, and usually after a few days she will start to go out for a few minutes to eat or go to the toilet.
What the owner should do
Your main task is to create a comfortable environment. Put a bowl with water and food right next to the nest so that the cat doesn’t have to go far. It is also better to put the litter box nearby, but so that the odor does not interfere. If the cat refuses to eat at all for more than a day – it is necessary to consult a veterinarian, because it may indicate problems after childbirth. In most cases, you should not worry: just give her time to adapt to the new role of mom, and in a few days she will start to leave the kittens, but also for very short periods.
