4 Kits, 2 with problems

[indy.edwards]

My female (Bonnie) gave birth to 4 kits Sunday evening. This is her second litter. One of the kits is super healthy looking and very active (Chubby). One of the kits is on the small side but still very active (Tiny). However, one of the kits still has one of his eyes closed (Winky). It doesn't seem to bother him but i've been gently trying to get it to open with no luck. And the last kit (Smoky) is very skinny and not very active. I don't think he's getting enough to eat so I put Chubby and Winky in with Clyde (the father) to give the 2 smaller ones more time to feed. When I put Smoky up to Bonnie, he nurses for a short while and then she moves to a different part of the cage. My question is what should I do about Winky's eye and Smoky's failure to thrive? Should I supplement for Smoky? Any input would be appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[tunes]

How are you trying to open his eye? I use a Q-tip or part of a cotton ball in warm water and let it sit on the eye for a little bit, then I gently pry it apart. Make sure the water isn't too hot.

As far as the other one, yes, if it was me I would supplement. There is a formula that we all use under the breeding FAQ's, as well as tips on how to feed it. I would also warm the formula up just a hair above what I would normally do. You don't want it hot, but I've found with ones that are like that a little bit warmer formula helps them eat a bit more. It's possible mom can't support quads or he just may need a bit more help. I would also keep a really close eye on the smaller kit who is active. Monitor their weights, make sure they are gaining.

 

[Dreamlite]

I agree with tunes. You need to get his eyes open or they can be permanently damaged if left closed. Warm (but not hot) water and a q tip works best. The weakest kit may need supplemented. Most females don't raise litters that large so she may not have enough milk. How large was her last litter? I would start feeding the youngest and or rotating kits. Make sure to weigh once a day to watch for issues.

 

[indy.edwards]

Her last litter was 3 kits. My husband is stopping at the store for goat milk and rice cereal. I'll try that and I'll also try the Q-tip on Winky's eye. Thanks for the advice.

 

[indy.edwards]

Update

Well, we lost Smokey. I tried feeding him the goat milk/rice cereal mixture but I think it was just too late. My poor son took it so hard.

My husband has been working on Winky's eye with a Q-tip and warm water but now both eyes are shut. The eye that has always been shut looks like it may be a permanent thing but we are able to open the other eye (but need to do it daily). Any other suggestions for getting Winky's eye(s) open?