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Why do my 6-week-old nursing kittens have diarrhea? Worms or food?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 month and 14 days old | 1lb

I have 2 litters of kittens the first litter got diarrhea and now the second litter has gotten it. They are all still nursing and I have tries to be careful about cross contamination they are in separate locations I am really starting to worry about this. Taking all of them to the vet is out of the question I am on a fixed income. Do you think it could be worms or the introduction of can food. And is it safe to worm them they are only 6 weeks now.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Jeffrey Milner

Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on June 15th, 2017

The most likely cause of the diarrhea you are seeing is gastrointestinal parasites. At 6 weeks, you should definitely start deworming the kitties. While I understand your financial constraints, I would see if you could simply bring in a fecal sample to the vet to be tested for parasites. This way, in a couple weeks, you have it retested and see if another deworming is necessary. In regards to cross-contamination, the best thing you can do is wear gloves between litters and wash your hands and arms thoroughly between sessions. If you touch them to your clothing, change clothes as well, reserving certain outfits for time spent with certain litters. Lastly, kittens should be starting the weaning process at about four weeks. While nursing at six weeks isn't unheard of, I would definitely try to start encouraging the feeding or regular food as soon as possible. Hope this helps!
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Hi. Poor babies. Sorry they have diarrhea. I hope they are still eating ok. Parasites and or food changes are the 2 most likely causes. As far as deworming them, it it best to get prescription medications. So, to start, I would take a fecal sample in to your veterinarian to confirm parasites first. Also a sample from mom. Unfortunately, it may take a visit if they don't improve.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 15th, 2018

    Hi. This can be a common in kittens. It could be caused by dietary indiscretion, infections, or parasites. She will need an exam and a fecal sample checked. Some parasites can be transmitted to people, so be very cautious with hygiene until those fecal tests come back. I also recommend getting the kitten tested for feline leukemia and feline FIV. Good luck

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    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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