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Why did my healthy newborn kittens die suddenly after birth?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Hi. My cat gave birth recently, about three weeks ago. Three healthy kittens. She treats them well, like how mom cats do. Yesterday, a kitten died because my dog played with him, I know why that happened. But just today, the other two were found dead. I don't know why. I checked on them a few hours before. They were feeding well as being cleaned (They stay under the bed). But when I came back, one was found near a door, dead, and the other just outside the bed. Can you please help?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Claudia Fioravanti

Veterinarian

Published on May 2nd, 2018

Hi , I’m sorry about your loss. It is very saddening to hear all the kittens have died. I think if your dog hasn’t been near the other two kittens and unwillingly caused their death by playing with them, it could be that mum has killed them as felt the environment was not safe for the kittens anymore. Cats can get really frightened and protective with their kittens and failure to be able to provide protection could have led to your cat’s frustration and sadly causing death of the other kittens. It is just a supposition, you could also have your cat checked over at your Vets for any signs of illness that could have been transmitted to the kittens but it seems a strange coincidence or them to pass away shortly after the first one has without any symptom.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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