* Stress and Instinct: Losing kittens is incredibly stressful for a mother cat. The loss of scent and warmth from her deceased kittens, combined with the stress of their absence, can trigger a survival instinct. She might abandon the living kittens to focus on her own survival and to avoid attracting predators to the weakened or vulnerable living kittens.
* Lack of Stimulation: The scent and movement of the dead kittens might be confusing or overwhelming to her, making her less attentive to the living ones.
* Health Concerns: In some cases, the mother cat may be sick or injured herself, making it difficult for her to care for her kittens properly.
What to Do if You Find This Situation:
If you find a mother cat who has abandoned living kittens, it's very important to intervene.
* Assess the situation:
* Check the health of the living kittens. If they're weak or cold, they need immediate care.
* Try to locate the mother cat. If she's nearby, she might be willing to care for the kittens again if the stress is removed.
* Seek professional help: Contact a local animal shelter or a veterinarian for advice. They can help you determine the best course of action, whether it's fostering the kittens or returning them to the mother cat.
Important Note: While it's natural for a mother cat to react in this way, it's heartbreaking for the living kittens. It's our responsibility as humans to intervene and provide them with the care they need to survive.