Essential Care Tips for Newborn Kittens|Expert Kitten Advice

Caring for Neonatal Kittens: A Comprehensive Guide

When you come across kittens outdoors, it's crucial to first determine if their mother is nearby. Avoid separating them from her, as she is their best caregiver. For more information, visit catpedia.cam/LeaveThemBe.

Neonatal kittens, those under four weeks old, are in a delicate phase of growth. They depend on their mothers for nourishment and other vital functions. Without their mother, they need constant and special care from a dedicated person, which could be you.

Alley Cat Allies is here to guide you through the essentials.

Seeking Help for Neonatal Kitten Care

Start by contacting veterinarians and no-kill shelters to find a nursing mother cat who can "adopt" the kittens or seek advice from experienced volunteers who can assist with bottle feeding.

Heating and Bedding for Neonatal Kittens

Kittens are prone to chilling, which can be dangerous. From the moment you find them, ensure they are kept warm and monitor for signs of chilling, such as lethargy and coolness to the touch. If necessary, use your body heat to warm a cold kitten and gently rub them to improve circulation.

Neonatal kittens cannot regulate their body temperature until they are at least three weeks old. It's essential to wait until they are fully warmed before bottle feeding.

Create a cozy nest by wrapping a heating pad in a blanket or towel at home. Ensure the kittens can move away from the heat if they wish. Change the bedding daily or if it becomes soiled. Kittens can become cold if they get wet, so never submerge them in water.

If a kitten needs cleaning, use a washcloth to clean specific areas and dry them thoroughly with a hairdryer on low and a towel.

Feeding Neonatal Kittens

Use kitten bottles with extended nipples if possible, as they are easier to use. You may need to create holes in the nipple with a sterilized pin or razor; ensure the holes are made correctly so the kitten milk replacer (KMR) flows gently when the bottle is inverted.

If the kitten struggles to get milk from the bottle, the pinhole may need enlarging; if the milk flows too quickly, consider using a nipple with a smaller hole. Hygiene is crucial, so sterilize bottles and wash your hands thoroughly before and after each feeding.

Place kittens on their stomachs while feeding, tilting the bottle to minimize air intake. Avoid feeding them on their backs. Always warm the KMR and test it on your wrist to ensure it's warm but not hot, similar to feeding an infant.

Remember, never feed cold kittens. Follow the formula label's instructions for the correct amount, although kittens typically stop eating when full.

What to Feed a Neonatal Kitten

Stick to kitten formula, like kitten milk replacer (KMR), available at most pet supply stores. If you have a kitten and the pet store is closed, you can make an emergency formula at home, but only use it in emergencies.

• 8 oz can of evaporated milk
• 1 beaten egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons Karo syrup

Combine all ingredients thoroughly and strain. Warm before serving and refrigerate any leftovers.

Should you give newborn kittens goat milk?

Never feed cow or goat milk to kittens, as it can cause diarrhea.

Feeding Frequency

• 10 days or younger: Every two hours around the clock.
• 11 days to 2½ weeks: Every three to four hours.
• 2½ to 4 weeks: Every five to six hours.
• Four weeks and older: Two to three times per day. Weaning begins around this age.

Mix formula with wet food so kittens can start lapping it up, or pour the mixture into a bottle. Then mix with dry food and start adding water. To encourage a kitten to latch onto a bottle, try pushing on the nipple when they start to suck.

Move the nipple back and forth in the kitten's mouth. If your kitten is too weak to suck on a bottle, you may need to use alternative methods like tube feeding. In such cases, consult a veterinarian.

After Feeding: How to Burp a Kitten

Burping kittens is necessary when they are fed formula. Place them on your shoulder or their stomachs and gently pat them until they burp. Kitten formula is sticky, so clean them with a warm, damp washcloth and dry them as needed after feeding.

Elimination

Kittens under four weeks old need stimulation to use the bathroom after each meal. To encourage urination and defecation, gently touch their anal area with a warm, moist cotton ball, tissue, or washcloth.

When kittens consume formula, their feces are rarely fully solid. If you notice difficulty in urination or defecation, contact a veterinarian.

Begin litter training at four weeks. Kittens may start seeking shelter as early as 2½ weeks old. Fill a small, shallow litter pan with non-clumping litter. Avoid using paper or cloth, as these are soft but may encourage undesirable behaviors. Show kittens the litter box and place a used cotton ball inside; this should suffice.

Health Concerns

Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)

While common in kittens, it should not be ignored. If a kitten develops excessive yellow discharge or has trouble breathing or eating, contact a veterinarian immediately. A mild URI can be managed by wiping away discharge with a warm, damp towel and keeping kittens in a warm, humid environment.

Fleas

Fleas on a small kitten can lead to anemia. Use a flea comb to remove fleas. For severe infestations, bathe the kitten in warm water. Use a small amount of mild liquid dish soap, like Dawn, to bathe kittens. Avoid the eyes; use a washcloth around the face and rinse thoroughly.

After bathing, ensure they are dried well to prevent chilling. Do not use flea shampoo or topical flea treatments on kittens under six weeks old.

Parasites: Diarrhea

Any significant change in stool consistency can be a cause for concern. Parasites often cause diarrhea, unusual feces, and dehydration. Kittens can start deworming medication as early as ten days old; consult a veterinarian for guidance.

Important Note

Some neonatal kittens may not survive despite your best efforts. All you can do is give your best, seek veterinary care in emergencies, and take pride in playing a vital role in a young kitten's life.

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