2 Bacterial infection with Escherichia coli, b-hemolytic Streptococcus spp, or Pasteurella spp, which may gain access through the umbilical stump, is particularly likely in neonates.Īlthough some infections occur shortly after birth, others are more common in older puppies or kittens (see Important Infectious Agents in Puppies and Kittens). Infection is another important cause of critical illness the juvenile immune system is not fully functional. Excellent guides are available for the care of orphaned kittens and puppies (see Resources, below).

These conditions often manifest in the first week of life but may be delayed if the mother becomes ill in the days or weeks after whelping. Related Article: The Critical Neonate: Under 4 Weeks of AgeĬommon causes of neonatal illness include poor mothering, failure to nurse, and failure of the mother to produce adequate milk. 1 Any of several disease states, problems with basic animal husbandry, or lack of maternal care can result in a debilitated puppy or kitten that requires critical care. In fact, more than half of all deaths in puppies occur within the first 3 days of life. Ill neonates can quickly become critically ill.

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