Question about colostrum

Kiera is still very pregnant and to pass the time while she waits for her own kittens, she taken to "mothering" the other 3 kittens I am fostering. Problem is, the little guys don't much mind where their lunch comes from and they nurse from Kiera too. I separate them as soon as I see this but a couple have gotten a good feeding as evidenced by the milk smeared on the fur around her nipples...

So here's my question: how does colostrum production work ? Is there a set amount and after it's gone then it's milk ? Should I be worried that the kittens won't get the colostrum as the other kittens drank it all ? Is colostrum production started by labor which means she'll produce more when she finally does go into labor ? ???

Thanks !
Julie (still waiting...)

Julie, this is such a fabulous question, thanks for asking it ...

It may help others reading to know what colostrum actually is:

Colostrum is the first lacteal secretion of mammals post parturition (birth). As a general rule, colostrum production begins 3-6 weeks before parturition. But the concentration of antibodies and other unique components in the colostrum doesn't dramatically increase until the last week.

So while your fosters are enjoying a snack at the milk bar, they are also receiving small amounts of colostrum - this is good, but you'll really want to restrict this now as the upcoming litter will need their share.

Hope this helps - I have more indepth info, just really short of time these days!

I'll be back to check in a little later,

Gaye