About a Week Old, Umbilical Cord Was Cut Manually; the Scab Feels Swollen. Mother Had Five Kittens, Three Died from Cord Issues—Will These Two Survive?

A swollen, scabbed umbilical area in a newborn may be infection from improper cord cutting, but incomplete closure of the navel can’t be ruled out. Take the kitten to a vet for diagnosis and treatment. For mild cases, disinfect with iodine and apply antibacterial ointment; severe cases may need surgery.

If a vet visit isn’t possible, disinfect and treat the inflammation at home; if it doesn’t improve, surgery is likely needed.