A little worried.

Hello! I'm new to this site so I apologise if this has been answered before or is in the wrong place. I just can't seem to find information to fit my exact query and this site has helped me a lot over the years so figured I'd just ask.

My beautiful cat gave birth to three kittens today. All seem healthy and she did brilliantly, especially for a first timer. However throughout the day I've noticed her nipples look quite red and sore. I don't know if they're hardened as I didn't want to feel and interfere too much with her at this time.

She still lets the kittens latch on and is very attentive in her nursing but she seems to be making 'funny faces' for lack of a better description and purring to herself a lot.

I've called the vet but he won't be able to see her for another week. Is there anything I can do just in case she is sore in the meantime to make her more comfortable? Gosh, this could be nothing at all but I just worry!

Thank you in advance for any replies.

You can put on lanolin cream, the stuff you'd get for breastfeeding mom's. Or even some olive oil.

Nursing is rough business, especially in the beginning. If her nipples and belly feel really warm, you can see if she'll let you put a warm compress on. Congrats on the kittens. [emoji]128522[/emoji]

Hi @ZuriCat  and welcome to the site!  We'd love to see pics of your new little ones and mama too.  In fact if you can, get a pic of mama's nipples so we can see what you mean.  @sarthur2  is good with new kitten coaching.  Hopefully she will be along shortly to talk to you.  

You've been given excellent advice regarding using Udder Balm or olive oil on her nipples, as both are soothing and neither is toxic to the kittens. Applying the warm, damp compresses will also offer relief.

My guess is that mom is getting adjusted to nursing, but If you really suspect mom has mastitis, she'll need to be seen right away. However, antibiotics usually clear it quickly.

Let us know how it's going!

Hello! Seconding that photos would help us to see what's going on and advise you. The oils mentioned above should help to soothe.

Are you able to keep mom 100% inside and away from intact males until the kittens are weaned? She can already get pregnant again.