My cat gave birth about 4 days ago and I'm hoping someone can help me with a few problems.

1.The runt of the litter looks like its gasping but it seems fine. We noticed it a few days ago and it starts and stops. He eat but when he's gasping he won't, no matter how hard we try to get him to. He moves around, quite a lot actually, and he does cry. I'm not really sure what I should as I really can't afford to pay to bring the kitten to the vet if something is wrong. Is there any way to check what is wrong?

2. Another thing I'm worried about is that the runts umbilical cord is still attached and about an inch long. Its very shriveled but will it eventually fall off or should I be worried?

If anyone that can help me I would greatly appreciate it.

It is gasping but seems fine? What part of gasping for air don't you understand? We cannot diagnose a condition with so little details over the internet! Why did you let your cat breed yet another litter into this overpopulated cat world, when you can't even afford a vet visit, and you have no knowledge of what you are doing? Shame on you! They feel pain just like a human baby feels pain! Frankly, I'm appalled. Cut down on any luxuries you may be giving yourself, and take this BABY to the VET ASAP!! This is a living, breathing, pain feeling baby! Why are you letting her SUFFER like this?

I know the prospect of vet bills can be terrifying, but you took on that responsibility when you made the decision not to spay your cat. Now you are responsible for bringing these lives into the world, and that makes you responsible for caring for them. It is impossible to say what might be wrong with this kitten: For this examination by a vet is required. But it certainly does souund serious. It would be morally wrong to allow him just to die, so you need to start calling vets in your area in order to try to find one who will allow you to make payment options. While your at it, you should make plans to have the mother spayed in a couple of months, once she has weened her babies.

I trust you are going to find good and loving homes for all the babies and that none of them are going to end up being put to death in a shelter.

A cat that is sucking air is a cat in trouble. Please take it to a vet ASAP. Most vets will work out payment plans, so there's no reason not to do so. If you are unable or unwilling to pay for medical care for your pets, you shouldn't have any. They shouldn't have to suffer.