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Why did my healthy rescued kitten suddenly die after 6 weeks?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

We rescued kittens after the mother abandoned them. We took all the steps to feeding them and keeping them warm. Sadly, the runt passed away after about a week. She had always refused to eat and never grew. The others did well and progressed. It’s been 6 weeks and we had one kitten left. She was happy and healthy, until last night. Suddenly she seemed weak and wasn’t as eager to eat even though earlier in the day she was great. We monitored her all night and suddenly she passed. What happened?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Paula Simons

Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

Veterinarian

Published on April 22nd, 2020

I'm so sorry for your loss! Rescue work can always be heartbreaking. I worry that since the mother abandoned the kittens, she may have known they were sickly. They could have had a congenital issue or mom could've been infected with a disease that severely affected the kittens. You could take the kitten to have post-mortem performed if you would like a final diagnosis, but unfortunately, this is something that happens and we don't always get closure.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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